Romans 13 The Power Of Government

The Bible tells us that government is created by God and all government is accountable to God. Romans 13:1-7 has a lot to say on this matter. Verse 1 says “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” We will come back to the first part of the verse, but for now, the focus will be on the last part. All power is ordained of God, no exceptions. Since government was ordained by God, it is also accountable to God. At the time Paul wrote the book of Romans, Nero was emperor. Nero was far from a God-Fearing leader, and yet God had established his authority. As was referenced earlier in Daniel 4:17, God gives a kingdom to whomever he wills. At this time Nebuchadnezzar
Verses 3-4 say “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.” In other words, government is a good thing for those who do good and a sword to those who practice evil. 1 Peter 2:14 similarly says that governors are sent by God for the punishment of evil doers and for the praise of them that do well. God ordains government for justice. The government plays a part in setting up laws that ultimately keep people from destructive sins that are clearly talked about in the Bible. God also uses government to bring about peace in an otherwise turbulent world. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says that we should pray for kings, and those in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and
Going back to the first part of verse 1, we are told to “be subject unto the higher powers” (meaning rulers over us). Add commentary Not only are we told to be subject, but as the verses go on, the language gets much stronger considering out part. “Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.” (Vs 2) add commentary? We are resisting God if we resist the governments over us! And to resist God, is to bring grief upon ourselves. God clearly wants believer to regard and respect earthly