Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to good deeds, but to evil deeds. Do you desire to be unafraid of the one in authority? Do what is good, and you will receive his approval.

Unlocked Literal Bible

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 who resists that authority opposes the command of God; and those who oppose it will receive judgment on themselves.

4For he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he does not carry the sword for no reason. For he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath on the one who does evil.

Read all of Romans 13

Cross References

Proverbs 14:35The favor of the king is with the servant who acts prudently, 1 but his anger is for the one who acts shamefully.

Ecclesiastes 10:4If the emotions of a ruler rise up against you, do not leave your work. 2 Calm can quiet down great outrage. 1

Romans 13:4For he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he does not carry the sword for no reason. For he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath on the one who does evil.

1 Peter 3:13Who is the one who will harm you if you are eager to do what 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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