Fathers

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What the Fathers say

Romans 1:32

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

"Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death. not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them." Having assumed here two objections, he in the first place removes them. For what reason have you to say, he means, that you know not the things which ought to be done? At best, even if you did not know, you are to blame in having left God who instructs you. But as it is by many arguments we have shown that you do know, and transgress willingly. But are you drawn by passion? …

Homily on Romans 5 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

Having demonstrated that the pagans were filled with every vice because they did not wish to know God, he now proves that they deserve no excuse. They cannot say: we did not know what is good; for they knew that God is righteous. This means they do evil voluntarily, and, what is even worse, they approve of those who do it, that is, they patronize evil — which is an incurable disease.

Commentary on Romans ↗

Clement of Rome

Those who do such things are hateful to God—and not only those who do them but those who take pleasure in those who do them.

The First Epistle Of Clement 35 ↗

Western Saints

Thomas Aquinas

Then when he says who, having known the justice, he shows that they are deserving of God's anger or vengeance. In this regard there are three points to consider. First, their naturalistic attitude, because although they knew that God is just and possessed of all other perfections, they did not believe that he would punish their sins: they say in their hearts: the Lord will not do evil (Zeph 1:12). This is why he says, who, having known the justice of God, did not understand. …

Commentary on Romans ↗