Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a cause of fear to the good work but to the evil. If you would have no fear of the authority, do good and you will have praise;

Bible in Basic English

In The King James Version

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:

In Context

2For which reason everyone who puts himself against the authority puts himself against the order of God: and those who are against it will get punishment for themselves.

4For he is the servant of God to you for good. But if you do evil, have fear; for the sword is not in his hand for nothing: he is God's servant, making God's punishment come on the evil-doer.

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Cross References

Proverbs 14:35The king has pleasure in a servant who does wisely, but his wrath is against him who is a cause of shame.

Ecclesiastes 10:4If the wrath of the ruler is against you, keep in your place; in him who keeps quiet even great sins may be overlooked.

Romans 13:4For he is the servant of God to you for good. But if you do evil, have fear; for the sword is not in his hand for nothing: he is God's servant, making God's punishment come on the evil-doer.

1 Peter 3:13Who will do you any damage if you keep your minds fixed on what is good?

Matthew Henry on Romans 13:2-7

Obedience to Magistrates Enforced. ( a. d. 58.) 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. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 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: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee… Read the whole commentary →

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