Romans 13:2

So then, whoever resists authority opposes what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.

Text-Critical English NT

In The King James Version

Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

In Context

1Every person must be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist have been appointed by God.

3For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil works. Do yoʋ wish to have no fear of the one in authority? Do what is good, and yoʋ will have praise from him.

Read all of Romans 13

Cross References

Matthew 23:13“But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you will receive a more severe judgment.

Luke 20:47They devour widows' houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive a more severe judgment.”

Titus 3:1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,

1 Peter 2:13Therefore, be subject to every human institution for the sake of the Lord, whether to the king as supreme

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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