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

¹ Let every one obey the supreme Authorities. For no Authority exists except by the will of God, and the existing Authorities have been appointed by God. ² Therefore he who sets himself against the authorities is resisting God's appointment, and those who resist will bring a judgment upon themselves. ³ A good action has nothing to fear from Rulers; a bad action has. Do you want to have no reason to fear the Authorities? Then do what is good, and you will win their praise. ⁴ For they are God's servants appointed for your good. But, if you do what is wrong, you may well be afraid; for the sword they carry is not without meaning! They are God's servants to inflict his punishments on those who do wrong. ⁵ You are bound, therefore, to obey, not only through fear of God's punishments, but also as a matter of conscience. ⁶ This, too, is the reason for your paying taxes; for the officials are God's officers, devoting themselves to this special work. ⁷ In all cases pay what is due from you--tribute where tribute is due, taxes where taxes are due, respect where respect is due, and honor where honor is due.