Add parallel Print Page Options

for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn’t bear the sword in vain; for he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil. Therefore you need to be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. For this reason you also pay taxes, for they are servants of God’s service, continually doing this very thing.

Read full chapter

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.(A) Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.(B)

This is also why you pay taxes,(C) for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing.

Read full chapter