Romans 13:1-7 - Obedience To The Governing Authorities

¹ Let every soul be subject to the higher authorities. For there is no authority but of God; the authorities that exist are ordained by God. ² So that the one resisting the authority resists the ordinance of God; and the ones who resist will receive judgment to themselves. ³ For the rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the bad. And do you desire to be not afraid of the authority? Do the good, and you shall have praise from it. ⁴ For it is a servant of God to you for good. For if you practice evil, be afraid, for it does not bear the sword in vain; for it is a servant of God, a revenger for wrath on him who does evil. ⁵ Therefore you must be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake. ⁶ For because of this you also pay taxes. For they are God's servants, always giving attention to this very thing. ⁷ Therefore give to all their dues; to the one due tax, the tax; tribute to whom tribute is due, fear to whom fear is due, and honor to whom honor is due.