Romans - Chapter 13

Romans 13.1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Romans 13.2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. Romans 13.3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: Romans 13.4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Romans 13.5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Romans 13.6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Romans 13.7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. Romans 13.8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. Romans 13.9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Romans 13.10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Romans 13.11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Romans 13.12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Romans 13.13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. Romans 13.14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Romans : Chapter 13

The Christian's Relationship with Authorities

Romans chapter 13 addresses a crucial question for believers: how to behave as Christians in society toward established authorities. The apostle Paul teaches us the importance of submission to government authorities, emphasizing that these authorities are instituted by God. This passage also reminds us of the importance of paying taxes and of showing respect and love for others, as a reflection of respect for divine law.

In conclusion, this chapter calls us to holiness and warns us of the nearness of Christ's return. To better understand the eternal principles presented in this essential chapter, let's examine five biblical passages that shed light on our understanding.

1. 1 Peter 2:13-14

"For the Lord's sake, submit yourselves to every human authority, whether to the king, as supreme, or to rulers sent by him to punish those who do evil and to honor those who do good."

This verse echoes Paul's teaching in Romans 13 on submission to governing authorities.

2. Matthew 22:21

"Then he said to them, 'Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.'"

Jesus establishes a principle that Paul expands on in Romans 13 concerning the obligations of Christians toward civil authorities.

3. Galatians 5:14

"The whole law is summed up in one commandment: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"

Paul repeats this principle in Romans 13:9, showing the central role of love in fulfilling the law.

4. 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6

"You are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of darkness. Therefore, let us not sleep as others do, but let us be alert and sober."

This verse refers to Romans 13:11-14, where Paul exhorts believers to live in the light of the coming day.

5. Titus 3:1

"Remind everyone to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and always be ready to do whatever is good."

Titus reinforces Paul's teaching in Romans 13 about submission to authorities.

Through these passages, we understand that our behavior toward authorities reflects our commitment to God and our call to live in accordance with His will.