13:1 governing authorities Refers to human government officials, not spiritual authorities (see Rom 13:3).

be subject Paul wants to ensure that Christians act as good citizens and avoid civic conflicts. This does not mean blind obedience, however. The Bible sometimes depicts people acting against public authorities in order to obey God (e.g., Exod 1:17; Dan 3:10–12; Acts 5:29). See note on 1 Pet 2:13.

authority The Greek word used here, exousia, refers not to an abstract concept, but to the authority exercised by government officials. The ot consistently views God as the ultimate authority over human government (Dan 4:17).

13:2 one who resists authority Paul indicates that since God establishes governing authorities, resisting that authority is the same as rejecting the authority of God.

condemnation In this context, Paul probably is referring to punishment from government authorities. The Greek word used here, krima, also can indicate final judgment from God (compare Rom 2:2–3; 3:8; 5:16).

13:4 servant The Greek word used here, diakonos, is the basis for the English word “deacon”; it often refers to Christians who serve God in ministry (e.g., 2 Cor 6:4; Eph 3:7; Col 1:7). Here, however, Paul applies diakonos to the government’s authority, which is ordained by God to serve His good purposes.

Diakonos Word Study

sword Refers to the government’s authority to punish rebels, even by death.

13:5 be in subjection The same verb as in Rom 13:1, emphasizing respect of established authority. See note on vv. 1–7.

13:6 servants of God The Greek word used here, leitourgos, portrays public officials as God’s servants, because their authority ultimately comes from Him. Compare v. 4 and note.

13:7 Pay to everyone what is owed This series of commands represents the duties of a good citizen. Paul had warned believers not to rebel against government officials (v. 2). Now, he urges them to do what is good.

13:8 except to love one another Represents the second greatest commandment (see Lev 19:18; Matt 22:39; Luke 10:27).

has fulfilled the law Paul suggests that love of neighbor is the essence of the law (compare Gal 5:14; 6:2).

13:9 For the commandments Paul lists several of the Ten Commandments (see Exod 20:13–17; Deut 5:17–21; compare Luke 18:19–21).

shall not commit adultery See Exod 20:14; Deut 5:18.

shall not commit murder See Exod 20:13; Deut 5:17.

shall not steal See Exod 20:15; Deut 5:19.

shall not covet See Exod 20:17; Deut 5:21.

other commandment Refers either to the Ten Commandments or to the commandments of the law in general.

You shall love your neighbor A quotation from Lev 19:18.

13:10 fulfillment of the law See note on Rom 13:8.

13:11 the time Refers to the present time, when Christians have opportunity to demonstrate faith in Christ and love for one another.

wake up from sleep Indicates awareness of God and sensitivity to His concerns (compare 1 Thess 5:6–7).

salvation Refers to the Day of the Lord. Paul asserts that Christ’s return is closer than before.

13:12 deeds of darkness Refers metaphorically to behavior that is characteristic of evil (compare 1 Thess 5:7).

weapons of light Compare Eph 6:13–17.

13:13 strife and jealousy Vices that inhibit unity among believers. Paul lists these among the deeds of the flesh in Gal 5:19–21.

13:14 put on the Lord A metaphor indicating that believers must appropriate Jesus’ virtues and imitate His love (compare Gal 3:27; Col 3:9–10).

provision for the desires Refers to providing an opportunity for sin.