“Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due” (Romans 1:27).
The Biblical account of creation defines God’s design for marriage as a formal, monogamous union between one genetic male and one genetic female (see Genesis 2:22). That design thus excludes premarital, extramarital, polygamous, polyamorous, or same-sex relationships as appropriate venues for human sexual expression. In addition to what we read here in Romans 1:26-27, the Scriptures offer several admonitions regarding these types of relationships and other such behaviors (see Leviticus 18:20, Hebrews 13:4, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Ephesians 5:3, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, 1 Timothy 1:9-10, and Revelation 21:8 for some examples).
Much like the prohibition regarding heterosexual adultery, the Biblical prohibition concerning same-sex relationships originates in the Old Testament book of Leviticus: “If a man has sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They are to be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads” (20:13 NIV). As we’re told in the 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 passage linked above, those whose lives are characterized by such conduct will not inherit the kingdom of God.
It is also worth noting that homosexual engagements were common among certain segments of first-century Roman society, thus reflecting a trend seen among many 21st-century cultures as well. In fact, multiple sources report that at least a dozen of the first fifteen Roman emperors were involved in homosexual or bisexual relationships, including Nero, most notably.
With this in mind, we can say that this portion of Romans probably faced widespread condemnation outside the Christian community when it first appeared, particularly in a city that served as the preeminent center of Roman power and authority. At a minimum, this message certainly would have met with some degree of cultural resistance, as is often the case today.
Finally, we should note that homosexuality is one among many practices that appear in closing verses of Romans chapter one. As one commentator observes, “Christians err when they excuse homosexuality, and deny that it is sin. But they also err just as badly when they single it out as a sin God is uniquely angry with.” (1) Another source offers the following insight: “Human sexuality is a much larger concept than sexual behaviour. It’s focus falls more on what people are than on what they do.”(2) In the case of same-sex relationships, this preference reflects an internal mindset that is contrary to God’s intent for His creation.
(1) David Guzik, 1 Corinthians 6 – Lawsuits and Loose Living [4. (8-11)] https://enduringword.com/commentary/1-corinthians-6/
(2) Ferguson, S. B., Packer, J. I., & Wright, D. F. (1988). New Dictionary of Theology. IVP Academic. pg. 637