“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”
Romans 13:1
Summary
Romans 13 underscores the importance of being subject to governing authorities, emphasizing that they are instituted by God to maintain order and justice. The apostle Paul encourages believers to respect laws and pay taxes, framing civil obedience as a vital part of Christian ethics. In his discourse, he insists that love fulfills the law, urging believers to owe no debt except that of love to one another. Love, Paul argues, is the essence of the commandments and involves actively working towards our neighbor's good. As the chapter closes, Paul calls Christians to live in the light, aware of the impending return of Christ. This involves leaving behind deeds of darkness and putting on the character of Christ, epitomized by love and integrity.