To whom does the downward progression in Romans 1 apply?
The downward progression in Romans 1 applies to the human race in general, then to empire after empire, then to nations in particular, and finally to the individual. It is the track record of mankind's downward spiral, where knowing God but not glorifying Him leads to darkened hearts and foolishness.
Les teaches that the downward progression in Romans 1 applies first to the human race in general, then to empire after empire, then to nations in particular, and finally to the individual. He bases this on verse 21, where mankind knew God but did not glorify Him or give thanks; their imaginations became vain and their foolish hearts were darkened by a judicial act of God. Verse 22 adds that professing themselves wise, they became fools.
And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.