Romans 13:1–4

Be Subject to Government

1 Every 1aperson is to be in bsubjection to the governing authorities. For cthere is no authority except 2from God, and those which exist have been appointed by God.

2 Therefore 1whoever resists that authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.

3 For arulers are not a cause of fear for 1good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of that authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same;

4 for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword in vain, for it is a minister of God, an aavenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.