◄ Romans 13 ►
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Submission to Authorities (1 Peter 2:13–20) 1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. 2Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. 4For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer. 5Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience. 6This is also why you pay taxes. For the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work. 7Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. Love Fulfills the Law (Leviticus 19:9–18) 8Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love. For he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. 9The commandments “Do not commit adultery,” “Do not murder,” “Do not steal,” “Do not covet,”a and any other commandments, are summed up in this one decree: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”b 10Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. The Day Is Near 11And do this, understanding the occasion. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14Instead, clothe yourselves withc the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh. Footnotes: 9 a Exodus 20:13–17; Deuteronomy 5:17–21 9 b Leviticus 19:18 14 c Or put on; see verse 12. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Romans 13 Summary Submission to Authorities Verses 1–2 – Submission to Authorities Paul declares that every person must place himself under the existing governing powers because all authority comes from God. Resisting rulers equals resisting God’s arrangement and invites judgment. Verses 3–4 – Government as God’s Servant Rulers are meant to discourage wrongdoing and reward good deeds. The magistrate “does not carry the sword in vain,” meaning he has divine permission to punish evil for the protection of society. Verses 5–7 – Conscience, Taxes, and Honor Believers submit not only to avoid punishment but also to keep a clear conscience. Paying taxes, revenue, respect, and honor are all part of recognizing that civil servants are “God’s servants.” Verses 8–10 – The Ongoing Debt of Love All other debts should be paid, but the debt to love one another never ends. Loving one’s neighbor keeps the moral commandments and “love is the fulfillment of the law.” Verses 11–12 – Wake Up: The Day Is Near Because salvation is closer than ever, Christians must wake from spiritual sleep, lay aside dark deeds, and put on the armor of light. Verses 13–14 – Put On the Lord Jesus Christ Believers are urged to live decently, rejecting partying, sexual sin, and strife. Instead, they are to “clothe” themselves with Jesus and deny the flesh. Romans 13 continues Paul's teaching on how believers should live. He focuses on the believer's relationship with civil authority, the ongoing obligation to love, and the urgency to live out the Christian faith in light of the coming day of salvation. Historical Setting: Believers in Nero’s Rome Paul likely wrote around AD 57 while Nero was on the throne. Rome boasted more than a million residents, a sophisticated road system, and strict tax collection. Christians faced suspicion yet had not begun the brutal persecutions that would erupt a few years later. Paul’s counsel prepared the church for loyalty to lawful authority even under a pagan emperor. Divine Institution of Government • Genesis 9:6 shows God assigning human authority to restrain violence. • Daniel 2:21 says God “removes kings and establishes them.” • Jesus told Pilate, “You would have no power over Me if it were not given to you from above” (John 19:11). Government is therefore God’s idea to maintain order, reward good, and punish evil. Roles of Government in Romans 13 - Preserve peace and safety. - Approve citizens who do right. - Punish those who do wrong, even with the “sword” (capital punishment). - Collect taxes so public servants can devote themselves to these tasks. Limits of Obedience Submission is not blind. Acts 5:29 records, “We must obey God rather than men.” When rulers command what God forbids (Daniel 3; 6) or forbid what God commands, believers respectfully refuse while accepting consequences. Otherwise, obedience is the rule. Taxes and Revenue First-century taxes funded roads, the military, and public buildings. Jesus said, “Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s” (Matthew 22:21). Paul echoes that: “Pay everyone what you owe him” (Romans 13:7). Integrity in finances is part of Christian witness. Respect and Honor • 1 Peter 2:17: “Honor everyone, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.” • Titus 3:1-2: Be ready for every good work, slander no one, show humility. Honoring officials does not equal endorsing all they do; it acknowledges their God-given post. The Continuous Debt of Love (vv. 8-10) - “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18) sums up the commandments. - Galatians 5:14 confirms Paul’s teaching: “The whole law is fulfilled in a single decree: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” - Love actively seeks no harm, so it automatically avoids adultery, murder, theft, and coveting. Living in the Light of Christ’s Return (vv. 11-14) Time is short. Paul uses night/day imagery: darkness speaks of sin; dawn speaks of Christ’s coming. Similar calls: • 1 Thessalonians 5:5-8 – believers are children of light. • Hebrews 10:25 – meet together “all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Putting on Christ means letting His character shape choices, speech, and habits. Practical Holiness: Casting Off Darkness Paul names six sins in pairs: 1. Carousing and drunkenness – wild partying. 2. Sexual immorality and debauchery – any immoral intimacy. 3. Dissension and jealousy – relational strife. Rejecting these keeps the church distinct from pagan culture. Archaeological Insights • Roman Tax Records: Wax tablets from Pompeii list property taxes, showing how pervasive taxation was. • The Sword (“machaira”): Excavations from Roman forts reveal the short, double-edged gladius, symbolizing the state’s power of life and death. Paul’s readers knew the image. • Milestones on Roman roads bore imperial inscriptions, reminding travelers who financed infrastructure—another reason taxes were exacted. Connections to Jesus’ Teachings - Matthew 5:14-16: Shine before others—links to “armor of light.” - Luke 10:25-37: The Good Samaritan embodies neighbor-love that fulfills the law. - John 13:34-35: Jesus’ “new commandment” parallels Paul’s call to ongoing love. Practical Applications for Today • Pay taxes honestly, even when disagreeing with rates. • Vote, obey laws, and advocate for justice without slander or violence. • Show courtesy to police, judges, and civil servants. • Keep short accounts—repay debts promptly; maintain the permanent debt of love. • Live expectantly: Christ’s return may be soon; let that govern entertainment, relationships, and spending. • Replace sinful habits with intentional pursuit of Christlikeness—“clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” daily. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 2:13-17 This passage echoes the call to submit to authorities and live as free people who use their freedom to serve God. Titus 3:1-2 Paul instructs Titus to remind believers to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, and to be ready for every good work. Matthew 22:21 Jesus' teaching on rendering to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's provides a foundational principle for understanding our dual responsibilities. Teaching Points Divine Ordination of Authorities Romans 13:1 states, Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. This verse emphasizes that all governing authorities are established by God, and thus, respecting them is part of our obedience to Him. Consequences of Rebellion Verse 2 warns, Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. This highlights the spiritual and practical consequences of resisting governmental authority. Role of Authorities According to Romans 13:3-4, For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Do what is right, and you will have his approval. For he is God’s servant to you for good. Authorities are meant to promote good and restrain evil, serving as God's servants for our benefit. Obligation to Pay Taxes Verse 6-7 instructs, This is also why you pay taxes. For the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work. Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due. Paying taxes and showing respect are part of our Christian duty. Love as Fulfillment of the Law Romans 13:8-10 shifts focus to love, stating, Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. Love is the ultimate fulfillment of the law and should guide all our interactions. Practical Applications Pray for Leaders Regularly pray for those in authority, asking God to guide them in wisdom and justice. Engage Respectfully Engage with political and social issues respectfully, remembering that authorities are established by God. Model Good Citizenship Be a model citizen by obeying laws, paying taxes, and contributing positively to society. Practice Love Let love be the guiding principle in all interactions, fulfilling the law through acts of kindness and compassion. People 1. Governing Authorities These are the rulers and officials who hold positions of power and governance. Romans 13:1-2 emphasizes that all authority is established by God, and therefore, Christians are called to submit to these authorities. The Greek term used here is "ἐξουσίαις" (exousiais), which refers to powers or authorities. 2. God While not directly named in the list of persons, God is the ultimate authority who establishes all governing powers. Romans 13:1 states, "For there is no authority except that which is from God," highlighting God's sovereignty over earthly rulers. 3. Rulers These are the individuals who execute laws and maintain order. Romans 13:3-4 describes them as servants of God who are meant to be a terror to bad conduct but a praise to good conduct. The Greek word "ἄρχοντες" (archontes) is used, meaning rulers or leaders. 4. The One in Authority This refers to any specific person who holds a position of power within the government. Romans 13:4 mentions that "he is God's servant for your good," indicating that those in authority are meant to serve the public welfare. 5. The Tax Collector Implied in Romans 13:6-7, where it discusses paying taxes as a duty to the authorities. The passage underscores the legitimacy of tax collection as part of the governing system ordained by God. 6. Neighbor In Romans 13:9-10, the focus shifts to interpersonal relationships, emphasizing love for one's neighbor as the fulfillment of the law. The Greek term "πλησίον" (plēsion) is used, meaning neighbor or fellow man. 7. The Believer/Christian While not explicitly named, the entire chapter is directed towards believers, instructing them on how to live in relation to authorities and others. The believer is called to live honorably, love others, and fulfill the law through love. Places Romans 13 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on themes such as submission to governing authorities, love fulfilling the law, and living honorably. Therefore, there are no places to list from this chapter. Events 1. Submission to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1 - "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God." The Greek word for "submit" (ὑποτάσσω, hypotassō) implies a voluntary attitude of giving in, cooperating, assuming responsibility, and carrying a burden. This verse emphasizes the divine origin of governmental authority. 2. Consequences of Resisting Authority Romans 13:2 - "Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." The term "resists" (ἀντιτάσσω, antitassō) means to arrange in battle against, indicating a strong opposition. This highlights the seriousness of opposing God-ordained structures. 3. Role of Rulers as God's Servants Romans 13:3-4 - "For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to bring punishment on the wrongdoer." The word "servant" (διάκονος, diakonos) is often translated as "minister" or "deacon," indicating a role of service under God's authority. 4. Necessity of Submission for Conscience's Sake Romans 13:5 - "Therefore, it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience." The Greek term for "conscience" (συνείδησις, syneidēsis) refers to moral consciousness, suggesting that submission is not just about fear of retribution but also about maintaining a clear moral standing before God. 5. Paying Taxes as a Duty Romans 13:6-7 - "This is also why you pay taxes. For the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work. Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due." The emphasis on paying taxes and giving respect and honor underscores the practical aspects of living under authority, recognizing their role as God's servants (λειτουργός, leitourgos). 6. The Command to Love Romans 13:8-10 - "Be indebted to no one, except to one another in love. For he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. The commandments 'Do not commit adultery,' 'Do not murder,' 'Do not steal,' 'Do not covet,' and any other commandments, are summed up in this one decree: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." The Greek word for "love" (ἀγάπη, agapē) is a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the best for others, fulfilling the moral requirements of the law. 7. Living in the Light of Salvation Romans 13:11-12 - "And do this, understanding the occasion. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." The imagery of "armor of light" (ὅπλα τοῦ φωτός, hopla tou phōtos) suggests a readiness and protection associated with living in accordance with God's truth. 8. Conduct Befitting the Day Romans 13:13-14 - "Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh." The call to "clothe yourselves" (ἐνδύσασθε, endysasthe) with Christ implies adopting His character and virtues, contrasting with the "desires of the flesh" (ἐπιθυμίας τῆς σαρκός, epithymias tēs sarkos), which are to be rejected. Lessons from Romans 13 1. Submit to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1 reminds us, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God." This verse encourages us to respect and obey the laws of the land, recognizing that God has established these authorities for our good. By doing so, we demonstrate our trust in God's sovereign plan and contribute to a peaceful and orderly society. 2. Authority as God's Servant In Romans 13:4, Paul describes rulers as "God’s servant for your good." This perspective helps us see that even imperfect leaders can be used by God to accomplish His purposes. By praying for our leaders and supporting just governance, we align ourselves with God's work in the world. 3. The Role of Conscience Romans 13:5 advises, "Therefore, it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience." Our conscience, informed by Scripture, guides us to act righteously. When we obey laws and respect authority, we maintain a clear conscience before God and man. 4. Pay What You Owe Romans 13:7 instructs, "Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due." This verse encourages us to fulfill our obligations, whether financial or relational, as a testimony of integrity and faithfulness. 5. Love Fulfills the Law Romans 13:10 states, "Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." Love is the guiding principle that should govern all our actions. When we love others as Christ loves us, we naturally fulfill God's commandments and reflect His character to the world. 6. The Urgency of the Hour Romans 13:11 urges us, "And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." This verse calls us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that each day brings us closer to Christ's return. 7. Cast Off the Works of Darkness Romans 13:12 encourages us to "put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." As believers, we are called to live in the light of Christ, rejecting sinful behaviors and embracing righteousness. This transformation is a powerful witness to the world of God's redemptive power. 8. Walk Properly as in the Daytime Romans 13:13 exhorts us to "behave decently, as in the daytime." Our conduct should reflect the light of Christ, characterized by honesty, purity, and integrity. By living transparently, we honor God and inspire others to seek His truth. 9. Clothe Yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ Romans 13:14 instructs, "Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh." This vivid imagery reminds us to immerse ourselves in Christ's teachings and character, allowing Him to transform our desires and actions. 10. Make No Provision for the Flesh Finally, Romans 13:14 warns us to "make no provision for the desires of the flesh." This means actively avoiding situations and influences that lead us away from God's will. By focusing on spiritual growth and discipline, we can resist temptation and live victoriously in Christ. These lessons from Romans 13 offer practical guidance for living a life that honors God and impacts the world. By embracing these truths, we can navigate our daily lives with wisdom, love, and purpose. Topics 1. Submission to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1-2 emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, as they are established by God. The Greek word "ὑποτάσσω" (hypotassō) is used here, meaning to arrange under or to subject oneself, indicating a voluntary submission to authority. The passage underscores that resisting authority equates to opposing God's ordinance. 2. Role of Authorities as God's Servants In Romans 13:3-4, authorities are described as God's servants for good. The Greek term "διάκονος" (diakonos) is used, which is often translated as "servant" or "minister." This highlights the role of authorities in maintaining order and executing justice, serving as agents of God's wrath against wrongdoers. 3. Conscience and Obedience Romans 13:5 discusses the necessity of obedience not only to avoid punishment but also for the sake of conscience. The Greek word "συνείδησις" (syneidēsis) refers to moral consciousness, suggesting that obedience to authorities aligns with an internal moral compass informed by God's law. 4. Paying Taxes and Respecting Authorities Romans 13:6-7 instructs believers to pay taxes and give respect and honor to whom it is due. The passage uses the Greek word "φόρος" (phoros) for taxes, indicating a duty to support the governing structures that God has put in place. This reflects a broader principle of honoring commitments and responsibilities. 5. Love as the Fulfillment of the Law Romans 13:8-10 shifts focus to the principle of love, stating that love fulfills the law. The Greek word "ἀγάπη" (agapē) is used, denoting selfless, sacrificial love. This section emphasizes that all commandments are summed up in loving one's neighbor, which is the essence of the law. 6. Living in the Light of Christ's Return Romans 13:11-14 encourages believers to live righteously in anticipation of Christ's return. The Greek word "ἐγγύς" (engys), meaning "near," is used to convey the urgency of living in the light. The passage calls for casting off deeds of darkness and putting on the "armor of light," symbolizing a life transformed by Christ. Themes 1. Submission to Governing Authorities Romans 13:1-2 emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, as they are established by God. The Greek word "ὑποτάσσω" (hypotassō) is used, meaning to arrange under or to be subject to, highlighting the divine order in societal structures. ^“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God.”^ (Romans 13:1) 2. Role of Authorities as God's Servants Authorities are described as servants of God, tasked with maintaining order and justice. The Greek term "διάκονος" (diakonos) is used, meaning servant or minister, indicating their role in executing God's will. ^“For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Do what is good, and you will have his approval.”^ (Romans 13:3) 3. Consequences of Resisting Authority Resisting authority is equated with opposing God's ordinance, leading to judgment. This theme underscores the seriousness of rebellion against divinely instituted structures. ^“Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”^ (Romans 13:2) 4. The Principle of Love Fulfilling the Law Love is presented as the fulfillment of the law, encapsulating all commandments. The Greek word "ἀγάπη" (agapē) is used, denoting selfless, sacrificial love. ^“Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.”^ (Romans 13:8) 5. Living in the Light of Salvation Believers are called to live honorably, as the day of salvation is near. This theme encourages moral and spiritual vigilance. ^“The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”^ (Romans 13:12) 6. Putting on the Lord Jesus Christ The exhortation to "put on" Christ signifies adopting His character and rejecting sinful desires. The Greek verb "ἐνδύω" (endyo) means to clothe oneself, symbolizing a transformation in behavior and identity. ^“Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.”^ (Romans 13:14) Prayer Points Pray for Wisdom Ask God for wisdom to navigate the complexities of living under human authorities while maintaining ultimate allegiance to Him. Pray for Peace Pray for peace and justice in our nation and for leaders to govern with integrity and righteousness. Pray for Love Seek God's help to love others genuinely, fulfilling the law through acts of kindness and compassion. Pray for Courage Request courage to stand firm in faith and truth, even when it conflicts with societal norms or governmental directives. By studying Romans 13, we gain insight into how to live as faithful Christians in a world governed by human authorities, always remembering that our ultimate allegiance is to God. Answering Tough Questions 1. Romans 13:1 says all governing authorities are instituted by God—how do we reconcile this with regimes responsible for genocide or oppression? 2. How does Romans 13:2’s warning against resisting authority align with biblical accounts of resisting evil rulers (e.g., Exodus 1:17)? 3. If Romans 13:3 claims rulers promote good and punish bad, why have some historical governments done the opposite without facing apparent divine judgment? 4. Given Romans 13:5 implies a duty to submit for conscience’s sake, how do we justify civil disobedience when authorities command actions contrary to moral law? 5. Why does Paul in Romans 13 emphasize obedience to secular powers when other New Testament texts (e.g., Acts 5:29) suggest obeying God rather than human authorities? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean to submit to governing authorities? 2. How can we reconcile the command to submit to governing authorities with situations where these authorities may act unjustly? 3. In what ways does love fulfill the law? 4. How does Paul's teaching on love challenge our current societal norms and personal habits? 5. What does it mean to wake up from spiritual slumber? 6. How can you apply the principles of "putting on the armor of light" in your daily life? 7. How does the idea of the nearness of salvation influence your attitudes and actions? 8. How can you "clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ" as Paul advises? 9. In what ways can we honor the commandments in our contemporary lifestyle? 10. What are some practical ways to demonstrate love to our neighbors in accordance with the teaching in Romans 13? 11. How does Paul's instruction about paying taxes speak to our attitudes towards societal responsibilities? 12. What does it mean to live honorably as in the day? 13. How does Romans 13 challenge our perceptions of civil authority? 14. How can we navigate situations where civil law and God's law appear to be in conflict? 15. What are some practical steps to avoid debauchery, dissension, and jealousy? 16. How can you exhibit more respect for authorities in your life? 17. How can we balance our earthly responsibilities (like paying taxes) with our spiritual responsibilities? 18. How does Paul's emphasis on love affect your understanding of the Christian faith? 19. How can you practice living in the light in your current circumstances? 20. How does the teaching in Romans 13 inspire you to live differently in the present day? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions