New Testament

Romans 1:20

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

For since the creation of the world, his invisible attributes — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood through the things that are made, so that they are without excuse.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

What Romans 1:20 means

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse emphasizes that God's qualities, such as His eternal power and divine nature, are evident in the world around us. From the beauty of nature to the complexity of life, creation itself reveals God's existence and attributes. People can see and understand these invisible qualities through what has been made. Therefore, no one can claim ignorance about God, as His presence is made clear through creation. This understanding holds everyone accountable, as they have the opportunity to recognize and respond to God’s existence and character. The verse suggests that the evidence of God is so apparent that it leaves humanity without excuse for disbelief or rejection of Him.

How to apply Romans 1:20 to your life

Recognize the beauty and complexity of the world as a reflection of God's nature. Use this awareness to deepen your faith and encourage others to see the evidence of God in creation. Share your insights about how nature reveals God's character in conversations.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Jesus on the shore calling James and John as they sit in their boat mending their nets, with older men in the boat behind them

Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

John the Apostle

Excavated stone ruins below the high ancient walls at the south end of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Jerusalem

David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Romans 1:20

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Romans 1:20

At a Glance — the Book of Romans

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 57
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
Christians in Rome

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 1:20 say about God's attributes?

Romans 1:20 states that God's invisible attributes, including His eternal power and divine nature, are clearly seen through creation. This means that the natural world reveals aspects of God's character, allowing people to understand His existence and qualities through what He has made.

How can creation reveal God's existence?

Creation reveals God's existence by showcasing His attributes in the beauty, complexity, and order of the universe. From the intricate design of living organisms to the vastness of the cosmos, these elements serve as evidence of a Creator, making it possible for people to recognize and understand God's nature.

How can I apply Romans 1:20 in my daily life?

You can apply Romans 1:20 by actively observing and appreciating the beauty and complexity of nature as a reflection of God's character. Use these insights to strengthen your faith and engage in conversations with others about how creation points to God's existence and attributes.

What themes are present in Romans 1:20?

Key themes in Romans 1:20 include God's attributes, the significance of creation, human accountability, the divine nature of God, and the evidence of His existence. These themes highlight the relationship between God and humanity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and responding to His presence in the world.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.