Thematic Bible: The purpose of government

Submit yourselves therefore to every human institution for the Lords sake; whether to the king, as supreme; or to governors, as being sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and the praise of those who do well.

Let every one submit to the authorities that are over him; for there is no authority which is not from God: and the authorities which exist have been ordained by God. He therefore that setteth himself against the authority resisteth what God hath ordained; and they a who resist will bring upon themselves judgment. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wouldst thou then not be afraid of the government? Do that which is good, and thou wilt have praise from it; read more.
for the ruler is Gods servant to thee for good. But if thou doest evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain; for he is Gods servant, an avenger to inflict wrath upon him that doeth evil. It is necessary therefore to submit, not only because of the wrath, but also for your conscience sake. For the same reason pay tribute also; for they are ministers of God, attending continually to this very business. Render to all what is due to them; tribute, to whom tribute is due; custom, to whom custom; fear, to whom fear; honor, to whom honor.