Romans 13:1-7

SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY

Keywords 13:1

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

 

1. God established governing authorities (1-5)

Paul was writing to a church whose very existence was a violation of Roman law.

He knew that God’s laws must have priority. But he did not use this as an excuse

for disobeying the law. God ordained governments to hold man’s sinful nature

in check--so we should obey the law--not only because we fear punishment,

but also in submission to God. The spirit of rebellion is never pleasing to God; it

comes from the sinful nature.

 

2. Give everyone what you owe him (6-7)

Some people have the false idea that respecting a leader or a parent or a

teacher is a violation of the principle of equality. So they do not respect anyone or

anything. This is a grave mistake. If we do not respect others, we cannot respect

ourselves. We should pay our debts, including taxes. Jesus said,“Give to Caesar

what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Mt 22:21).

 

Prayer Lord, forgive my rebellious spirit. Give me the mind of Christ who even

respected little children. Help me to live in obedience.

One Word Pay debts and respect others