Session 4 – Romans; The Wrath of God: Mark Lanier, 04/27/25

Mark Lanier continued his Romans series, today examining Romans 1:18-32 and the theme of the wrath of God as it is revealed in the opening section of Paul’s letter.

1. The revelation of God’s wrath

• Paul asserts that the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress truth.

• Mark explained how this theme isn’t incidental but central to understanding human sinfulness and God’s righteous response.

2. Human responses to revealed truth

• Paul shows how creation itself reveals God, yet humanity consistently rejects Him, choosing idolatry and self-centered desires.

• This rejection results in God “giving them over” to their sinful passions and distortions of God’s design.

3. The downward spiral of sin

• Mark traced Paul’s logic: suppressed truth leads to idolatry, which leads to debased thinking and distorted desires, which culminate in dishonorable living and mutual harm.

• Paul’s listing of sins shows a relentless decline when people reject the knowledge of God revealed in creation.

Points for Home

• God has revealed Himself clearly (even in creation), yet people often resist and suppress that truth.

• God’s wrath is not arbitrary; it is a righteous response to persistent suppression of truth.

• When we choose our own way over God’s design, it leads to a self-destructive spiral—but the gospel offers rescue and renewal.