Romans 13:5
So it's important to do as you're told, not just because of the threat of punishment, but because of what your conscience tells you.
Free Bible Version
In The King James Version
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
In Context
6That's why you have to pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants taking care of such things.
Cross References
Ecclesiastes 8:2My advice is to do what the king says, since that's what you promised God.
Titus 3:1Remind them to follow what rulers tell them to do, and to obey authorities. They should always be ready to do what is good.
1 Peter 2:13Obey human authority for the Lord's sake, whether it is the king as the highest authority,
1 Peter 3:16Make sure your conscience is clear, so that if anyone makes accusations against you, they will be embarrassed for speaking badly about the good way you live your life in Christ.
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 →