Thematic Bible: The purpose of government

Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man, for the Lord's sake; whether it be to the king, as supreme ruler, or to governors, as those sent by him for the punishment of evil-doers, and for the praise of those who do well.

Let every soul be subject to the higher authorities. For there is no authority but from God: the authorities that are, have been appointed by God. Therefore, he that resists the authority, resists the appointment of God; and those who resist shall receive to themselves condemnation. For rulers are not a terror to works that are good, but to those which are evil. Will you, then, not be afraid of the authority? Do that which is good, and you shall receive praise from the same. read more.
For he is the minister of God to you for that which is good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain. For he is the minister of God to inflict punishment on him that does evil. Wherefore, it is necessary to be subject, not only because of punishment, but also for conscience sake. On this very account, too, pay tribute also: for they are the public servants of God, attending continually to this very thing. Render, therefore, to all their dues; tribute, to whom tribute is due; custom, to whom custom; fear, to whom fear; honor, to whom honor is due.