Romans Chapter 13:1-7 KJV

Rom 13:1 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.

Rom 13:2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

Rom 13:3 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:

Rom 13:4 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.

Rom 13:5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

Rom 13:6 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.

Rom 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

Romans 13: 1-7 paraphrased “The Clear Word” edition

Obey your government. Even though you may not always agree with those in power, human governments do have a part in God’s overall plan. They would have no such power if God did not allow it.

 (Vs2) Anyone who is against law and order is against what God has established. If you resist laws, you may not only find yourself opposing God, but being arrested as a lawbreaker as well.

 (Vs3) Generally speaking, rulers don’t arrest and punish people who are good, but those who are bad. You don’t have to be afraid of those who rule over you unless you do evil. So do what’s good, and you will be honored.

(Vs4) In this sense, law enforcement officers are serving God because they are put there to arrest and punish those who do evil. So, if you do evil, then you’re contributing to the breakdown of society, and you have good reason to be afraid. Human government is God’s agent of justice to punish those who do wrong.

(Vs5) That’s why you should be a good citizen, not only to avoid God’s displeasure, but in order to maintain a good conscience. 

(Vs6) This is the same reason we pay taxes, because those who enforce the law are serving God by maintaining law and order and keeping the peace.

 (Vs7) So give to everyone what rightfully belongs to him, taxes to the tax collectors, custom fees to the custom officials, respect to those in authority and honor to who honor is due.