Let every soul be subject to the superior powers. For there is no power except from God, and the [powers] which exist have been ordained by God. So that he who resists the power resists the ordinance of God; and those who resist shall receive judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Will you not fear the power? Do good, and you shall have praise from it; read more.
for [the power] is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, fear; for it bears not the sword in vain; for it is God's minister of justice for punishment to him that does evil. Wherefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only on account of punishment, but also on account of conscience. For on this account also you pay taxes; for [magistrates] are servants of God attending constantly to this same thing. Pay to all their dues; a tax to whom a tax is due, a toll to whom a toll is due, fear to whom fear, and honor to whom honor.