Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to the good works, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from the same:

ASV Byzantine Text

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

2Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment.

4for he is a 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 a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil.

Read all of Romans 13

Cross References

Proverbs 14:35The king’s favor is toward a servant that dealeth wisely; But his wrath will be against him that causeth shame.

Ecclesiastes 10:4If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for gentleness allayeth great offenses.

Romans 13:4for he is a 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 a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil.

1 Peter 3:13And who is he that will harm you, if ye become imitators 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 →

This Verse In Other Editions

Study Romans 13:3