For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: (Romans 1:20)
That is, “his eternal power and Godhead,” as later mentioned. In their blindness men had substituted visible images for these invisible attributes of God.
From the creation.
That is, ever since the creation.
Clearly seen.
The invisible things of God may be clearly perceived by the mind with the help of the created works of nature. Even though blighted by sin, the “things that are made” testify that One of infinite power created this earth. All around us we see abundant evidence of His goodness and love. Thus it is possible for even the heathen to recognize and acknowledge the power of the Creator.
Godhead.
Gr. theiotēs, “divine nature,”“divinity,”“Godhood.” This is the only occurrence of theiotēs in the NT. The apostle here speaks of the divine essence and the manifestation of the divine attributes, not of the Trinity as such. Compare the word theotēs in Col. 2:9, which properly means “Godhead.”
Without excuse.
The revelation of God through conscience and nature is sufficient to enlighten men as to the divine requirements. In the face of this revelation, they are without excuse for the nonperformance of duty, that is, for their idolatry and for hindering the truth.