In addition to homosexuality, clearly dealt with in previous verses, Paul lists a series of other sins that was characteristic of the Romans at the time of his writing. These sins are listed in verses 29-31. They include sexual sin, greed, hateful speech and actions, gossip, rebellion and cruelty.
The key to this list, concluding this chapter, is Paul’s condemnation not only of their actions, but condemnation of tolerance of the practices. “…Those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them” (32).
Why are these things condemned? Because God is righteous! As the Lord instructed Israel in Leviticus 19:2, “You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” Because God is holy, Paul wrote, “It is a righteous thing with God… [to take vengeance on] “…those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thessalonians 1:6,8). Righteousness is a requirement of God!
