1 Every one should be in the higher authorities; for there is no authority apart from God. The authorities that now exist have been appointed by God.

2 Therefore the man who rebels against authority is opposing the divine ordinances; and those who withstand will bring judgment on themselves.

3 For rulers are no terror to good deeds, but to evil. Would you be fearless of the rulers authority? Do what is good, and you will have his praise.

4 For the ruler is Gods minister appointed for your good. But if you are a wrong-doer, be afraid; he does not carry the sword to no purpose; he is Gods servant, appointed to vengeance upon the guilty.

5 Wherefore you must needs be in subjection, not only because of fear, but also for conscience sake.

6 This too, is the reason why you pay taxes; because the authorities are ministers of Gods service, attending continually upon this very thing.

7 Render to all their dues; taxes to whom taxes, customs to whom customs, respect to whom respect, and homage to whom homage is due.