Paul deals first with the general problem of sin among pagans. Their their idolatry and the immoral bend of their lives represent a refusal to acknowledge God's lordship. The expression "God gave them over to" is used three times (v24, 26, 28) to describe God's response. God does not need to 'punish' them for them to be punished' (though this cannot justify any suggestion that there will be no hell to pay). He needs only to "give them over to" what they are already doing, to leave them to their evil devices, and that would be wrath enough.
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