Who does Romans 1:26 mention first in the context of homosexuality?
Romans 1:26 addresses women first in the context of homosexuality. The verse begins not with men but with women who entered into a homosexual relationship. It states their women changed the natural use of sexual intercourse into that which is against nature.
Les explains that Romans 1:26 starts not with the men but with the women who entered into a homosexual relationship. He contrasts this with the natural immorality mentioned in verse 24, noting they moved into the vile affections of the homosexual lifestyle. The text says their women changed the natural use of sexual intercourse into that which is against nature. Verse 27 then says likewise the men left the natural use of the woman and burned in lust one toward another, men with men. Les connects this to Genesis 19, where Scripture first deals with what God calls an abomination.
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
More Questions
What is the difference between Romans 1:24 and Romans 1:26?
Les contrasts the 'even natural immorality' of Romans 1:24 with the 'vile affections of the homosexual lifestyle' in Romans 1:26.
Is Romans 1:26-27 about homosexuality?
Les explains that verse 26 speaks of God giving them up to a still lower level, not normal immorality between the sexes, but vile affections. He points out the women changed the natural use into that which is against nature, and says, “We're talking about homosexualism.” Verse 27 likewise describes men leaving the natural use of the woman, burning in lust one toward another, men with men working that which is unseemly or unnatural, and receiving in themselves the recompense of their error. Les emphasizes this is plain English, not to be explained away. He notes denominations have problems wanting such people in the pulpit, but insists we must call sin, sin, as the Bible does. Yet he also stresses God hates the sin but loves the sinner, and is ready to offer salvation. He then connects this to verse 28, where God gives them over to a reprobate mind, and verses 29 onward describe their community.
What does the phrase 'vile affections' mean in Romans 1:26?
The 'vile affections' mentioned in Romans 1:26 refer to the homosexual lifestyle.
Why did God give them up to vile affections in Romans 1:26?
God gave them up to vile affections because of their behavior, their unbelief, and their rebellion.