Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Will you then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same:

Updated King James Version

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

2Whosoever therefore resists the power, resists the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

4For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that does evil.

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Cross References

Proverbs 14:35The king's favour is toward a wise servant: but his wrath is against him that causes shame.

Ecclesiastes 10:4If the spirit of the ruler rise up against you, leave not your place; for yielding pacifies great offences.

Romans 13:4For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that does evil.

1 Peter 3:13And who is he that will harm you, if all of you be followers 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 →

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