Romains - Caput 13

Romains 13.1 omnis anima potestatibus sublimioribus subdita sit non est enim potestas nisi a Deo quae autem sunt a Deo ordinatae sunt Romains 13.2 itaque qui resistit potestati Dei ordinationi resistit qui autem resistunt ipsi sibi damnationem adquirunt Romains 13.3 nam principes non sunt timori boni operis sed mali vis autem non timere potestatem bonum fac et habebis laudem ex illa Romains 13.4 Dei enim minister est tibi in bonum si autem male feceris time non enim sine causa gladium portat Dei enim minister est vindex in iram ei qui malum agit Romains 13.5 ideo necessitate subditi estote non solum propter iram sed et propter conscientiam Romains 13.6 ideo enim et tributa praestatis ministri enim Dei sunt in hoc ipsum servientes Romains 13.7 reddite omnibus debita cui tributum tributum cui vectigal vectigal cui timorem timorem cui honorem honorem Romains 13.8 nemini quicquam debeatis nisi ut invicem diligatis qui enim diligit proximum legem implevit Romains 13.9 nam non adulterabis non occides non furaberis non concupisces et si quod est aliud mandatum in hoc verbo instauratur diliges proximum tuum tamquam te ipsum Romains 13.10 dilectio proximo malum non operatur plenitudo ergo legis est dilectio Romains 13.11 et hoc scientes tempus quia hora est iam nos de somno surgere nunc enim propior est nostra salus quam cum credidimus Romains 13.12 nox praecessit dies autem adpropiavit abiciamus ergo opera tenebrarum et induamur arma lucis Romains 13.13 sicut in die honeste ambulemus non in comesationibus et ebrietatibus non in cubilibus et inpudicitiis non in contentione et aemulatione Romains 13.14 sed induite Dominum Iesum Christum et carnis curam ne feceritis in desideriis

Romains : Caput 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.