New Testament
Romans 1:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 1:31, Paul describes a group of people who have turned away from God and exhibit various negative traits.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
without understanding, covenant-breakers, without natural affection, unforgiving, unmerciful.
Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 1:31, Paul describes a group of people who have turned away from God and exhibit various negative traits. They lack understanding, meaning they do not grasp the truth of God or moral principles. Being 'covenant-breakers' indicates they are unfaithful to commitments, particularly those made with God and others. 'Without natural affection' suggests a loss of basic human compassion and love, leading to coldness in relationships. The term 'unforgiving' points to a refusal to extend grace or mercy to others, while 'unmerciful' highlights a lack of compassion for those in need. This verse paints a picture of moral decay and the consequences of rejecting God, emphasizing the importance of understanding, love, and mercy in our lives. Explore related corruption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 1:31 to your life
To live a life aligned with God's values, we should strive to cultivate understanding, show love and compassion to others, and practice forgiveness. Reflecting on our relationships can help us identify areas where we may be unmerciful or unforgiving, allowing us to grow spiritually.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 1:31 mean?
Romans 1:31 describes people who have turned away from God, exhibiting traits like lack of understanding, unfaithfulness to commitments, and a loss of compassion. It highlights the moral decline that occurs when individuals reject God's truth.
What is the meaning of 'covenant-breakers' in Romans 1:31?
The term 'covenant-breakers' in Romans 1:31 refers to individuals who are unfaithful to their promises or commitments, especially those made to God and others. It signifies a serious breach of trust and loyalty.
What does 'without natural affection' mean in Romans 1:31?
'Without natural affection' in Romans 1:31 indicates a lack of basic human compassion and love, suggesting that individuals have become emotionally cold and indifferent in their relationships.
How can I apply Romans 1:31 to my life?
To apply Romans 1:31, focus on cultivating understanding, showing love and compassion, and practicing forgiveness in your relationships. Reflect on areas where you may struggle with mercy or forgiveness to foster spiritual growth.
The Book of Romans
Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.
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