Romans 1:21 nasb — For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculatio…

NASB

"For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened."

— Romans 1:21, NASB

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Romans 1:21 in Other Translations

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Romans 1 — Context

18

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,

19

because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.

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.

21

For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

22

Professing to be wise, they became fools,

23

and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures.

24

Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them.

Romans 1:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Romans 1:21 say?
Romans 1:21 in the NASB reads: “For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
Where is Romans 1:21 in the Bible?
Romans 1:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Romans, chapter 1, verse 21.
Who wrote Romans?
Romans is traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle. It was written c. AD 56–57.
What is the book of Romans about?
Romans is Paul's most systematic exposition of the gospel — the universal need for salvation, justification by faith in Christ, the new life of the Spirit, the place of Israel in God's plan, and the practical shape of a transformed community. The most influential letter in church history.
What are the major themes of Romans?
Romans explores themes including Righteousness by Faith, Sin, Grace, Spirit-Filled Life, Israel, Christian Living. These themes shape the meaning and context of Romans 1:21.
What translation should I read Romans 1:21 in?
Romans 1:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Romans 1:21?
Romans 1:21 reads (NASB): “For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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