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You asked

how does paul's argument about 'without excuse' apply to a pluralistic, scientific age?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Romans 1:20

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

The Apostle Paul is writing to believers in Rome, likely in the mid-first century CE, explaining the core message of the Gospel. In the verses leading up to this, he is discussing how humanity, both Jew and Gentile, is accountable before God, setting the stage for the need for salvation through faith.

What does this passage suggest about our universal capacity to perceive meaning or order in the world around us, regardless of our specific beliefs or discoveries?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Psalm 19:1-4

    This psalm speaks of the heavens declaring God's glory and handiwork to all.

  • Acts 17:22-28

    Paul speaks to the Athenians about an 'unknown god,' suggesting that aspects of God are discernible even among those who don't know the full revelation.

  • Romans 2:14-15

    This passage further explores the idea that even those without explicit law can have a 'law written on their hearts,' pointing to an internal moral sense.

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