Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. And dost thou wish not to be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou wilt have praise from it;

The New Testament, American Bible Union (1865)

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

2So that he who resists the power, resists the ordinance of God; and they that resist will receive to themselves condemnation.

4for he is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil.

Read all of Romans 13

Cross References

Romans 13:4for he is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil.

1 Peter 3:13And who is he that shall harm you, if ye are followers of that which 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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