The expression: “God gave them up,” etc. is not to be so softened down into the idea of mere permission. With this v. (24) begins the description of God’s revelation of his wrath against them. This is introduced by διὸ; because they had pursued the course outlined in the preceding verses (19–23) God set in operation against them those moral and providential forces which reduced them to the lowest depth of misery and shame. Vv. 25–32 show what this exhibition of his wrath was and what were its consequences. For historic illustration of the condition of the Heathen world at this time, see Fisher, Beginnings of Christianity, chap. vi.—G.B.S.