Romans 13:1-7

Darby Translation

13 Let every soul be subject to the authorities that are above [him]. For there is no authority except from God; and those that exist are set up by God.

² So that he that sets himself in opposition to the authority resists the ordinance of God; and they who [thus] resist shall bring sentence of guilt on themselves.

³ For rulers are not a terror to a good work, but to an evil [one]. Dost thou desire then not to be afraid of the authority? practise [what is] good, and thou shalt have praise from it;

⁴ for it is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou practisest evil, fear; for it bears not the sword in vain; for it is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil.

⁵ Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also on account of conscience.

⁶ For on this account ye pay tribute also; for they are God's officers, attending continually on this very thing.

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