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For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from the same: for [a]he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for [b]he beareth not the sword in vain: for [c]he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.

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Footnotes

  1. Romans 13:4 Or, it
  2. Romans 13:4 Or, it
  3. Romans 13:4 Or, it

For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.(A) For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.(B) Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.(C)

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