Romans 13:5

You are bound, therefore, to obey, not only through fear of God’s punishments, but also as a matter of conscience.

Open English Bible (US)

In The King James Version

Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

In Context

4For they are God’s servants appointed for your good. But, if you do what is wrong, you may well be afraid; for the sword they carry is not without meaning! They are God’s servants to inflict his punishments on those who do wrong.

6This, too, is the reason for your paying taxes; for the officials are God’s officers, devoting themselves to this special work.

Read all of Romans 13

Cross References

Titus 3:1Remind them to respect and obey the rulers and authorities, to be ready for every kind of good work, to slander no one, to avoid quarreling,

1 Peter 2:13Submit to all human institutions for the Lord’s sake, alike to the emperor as the supreme authority,

1 Peter 3:16and keeping your consciences clear, so that, whenever you are maligned, those who vilify your good and Christian conduct may be put to shame.

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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