Romans 13

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 for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.

⁵ Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

⁶ For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

⁷ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

⁸ Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

⁹ For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if [there be] any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

¹⁰ Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love [is] the fulfilling of the law.

¹¹ And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our salvation nearer than when we believed.

¹² The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

¹³ Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

¹⁴ But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

Overview of Romans Chapter 13

Romans Chapter 13 is a pivotal passage in the New Testament that addresses the relationship between Christians and governing authorities. The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of submission to civil authorities, the moral obligations of believers, and the overarching command to love one another. This chapter serves as a guide for Christians on how to navigate their responsibilities both to God and to society.

Key Themes

• Submission to Authorities: Paul begins by asserting that all governing authorities are established by God, and therefore, Christians are called to submit to them.
• Consequences of Rebellion: The text outlines the consequences of resisting authority, which can lead to punishment and condemnation.
• Role of Authorities: Paul describes the role of rulers as servants of God who are meant to promote good and punish evil.
• Moral Obligations: The chapter emphasizes the moral responsibilities of Christians, including paying taxes and fulfilling obligations to others.
• The Law of Love: The chapter culminates in the command to love one another, which fulfills the law and reflects the essence of Christian ethics.

Detailed Analysis

Submission to Authorities (Verses 1-2)

Paul opens the chapter with a strong directive for believers to submit to governing authorities. He states:

1. “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.” (Romans 13:1)
2. He explains that there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by Him.

This establishes a theological foundation for civil authority as divinely ordained, suggesting that rebellion against such authority is tantamount to rebelling against God’s ordinance.

Consequences of Rebellion (Verses 2-4)

Paul warns that resisting authority brings judgment upon oneself. He writes:

1. Rulers are not a terror to good conduct but to bad.
2. Those who do good have nothing to fear from the authorities.

This section underscores the idea that civil authorities are meant to maintain order and justice, and that Christians should act in a manner that aligns with societal laws to avoid punishment.

The Role of Authorities (Verses 3-4)

In verses 3 and 4, Paul elaborates on the role of rulers:

• They are described as “God’s servants” for the good of society.
• They wield the sword not in vain, indicating their role in enforcing justice.

This portrayal of authorities as agents of God reinforces the notion that Christians should respect and obey them as part of their faith commitment.

Moral Obligations (Verses 6-7)

Paul shifts focus to the practical implications of submission, particularly regarding taxes and civic duties:

• He instructs believers to pay taxes, as authorities are God’s servants devoted to their work.
• He emphasizes the importance of fulfilling all obligations, including respect and honor.

This section highlights the necessity of active participation in society and the importance of meeting civic responsibilities.

The Law of Love (Verses 8-10)

In verses 8-10, Paul introduces the concept of love as the fulfillment of the law:

• He instructs believers to owe nothing to anyone except to love one another.
• Love is portrayed as the ultimate command that encompasses all other commandments.

This teaching reinforces the idea that love should be the guiding principle of Christian conduct, transcending legalistic adherence to the law.

Living in Light of Christ’s Return (Verses 11-14)

Paul concludes the chapter by urging believers to live in a manner that reflects their awareness of Christ’s imminent return:

• He encourages them to cast off works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
• Believers are called to behave decently and avoid actions that are contrary to their faith.

This final exhortation serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the urgency of living a life that honors God in anticipation of Christ’s return.

Conclusion

Romans Chapter 13 provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the relationship between Christians and civil authorities. It emphasizes submission, moral responsibility, and the centrality of love in fulfilling God’s law. Paul’s teachings encourage believers to engage positively with society while remaining steadfast in their faith, ultimately reflecting the character of Christ in all aspects of life.