Romans 13
1 St. Paul, writing to the Romans, whose city was the seat of the empire,
speaks largely of obedience to magistrates: and this was also, in effect,
a public apology for the Christian religion. Let every soul be subject
to the supreme powers - An admonition peculiarly needful for the Jews.
Power, in the singular number, is the supreme authority; powers are they
who are invested with it. That is more readily acknowledged to be from
God than these. The apostle affirms it of both. They are all from God,
who constituted all in general, and permits each in particular by his providence.
The powers that be are appointed by God - It might be rendered, are subordinate
to, or, orderly disposed under, God; implying, that they are God's deputies
or vicegerents and consequently, their authority being, in effect, his,
demands our conscientious obedience.
2 Whosoever resisteth the power - In any other manner than the laws
of the community direct. Shall receive condemnation - Not only from the
magistrate, but from God also.
3 For rulers are - In the general, notwithstanding some particular exceptions.
A terror to evil works - Only. Wouldest thou then not be afraid - There
is one fear which precedes evil actions, and deters from them: this should
always remain. There is another fear which follows evil actions: they who
do well are free from this.
4 The sword - The instrument of capital punishment, which God authorizes
him to inflict.
5 Not only for fear of wrath - That is, punishment from man. But for
conscience' sake - Out of obedience to God.
6 For this cause - Because they are the ministers (officers) of God
for the public good. This very thing - The public good.
7 To all - Magistrates. Tribute - Taxes on your persons or estates.
Custom - For goods exported or imported. Fear - Obedience. Honour - Reverence.
All these are due to the supreme power.
