Romans 13:1-7 ▼

1 LET every soul be subject to the sover eign authorities. For there is no power which is not from God: and those who are in authority are ordained by God.

2 Whoever therefore resists the civil authority, resists the command of God: and they that resist, shall receive judgment to themselves.

3 For judges are not a menace to good works, but to evil. Now if you do not wish to be afraid of the authority, then do good, and you will be praised for it.

4 For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is wrong, be afraid; for he is not girded with the sword in vain; for he is the minister of God, and an avenger of wrath upon those who commit crime.

5 Wherefore, we must be obedient, not only in fear of wrath, but also for our conscience sake.

6 For, for this reason you pay head tax also: for they are ministers of God who are in charge of these things.

7 Render therefore, to every one as is due to him: head tax to him who is in charge of head tax, duty to him who is in charge of custom; reverence to whom reverence is due, and honor to whom honor is due.