Romanschapter 13

14 verses · ASV

This chapter sends 217 cross-references outward and receives 290 — heaviest partner: Matthew.

Chapter summary

Let every soul be subject to the higher powers — ordained of God for good. Render to all their dues. The one debt that remains is love; love is the fulfilling of the law. Awake, for the night is far spent and the day is at hand. Cast off the works of darkness, put on the armor of light. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ; make no provision for the flesh. JFB notes the practical scope — conscience-rule for Christians under Caesar, rooted in God's ordering of authority.

Drafted from Matthew Henry, Calvin, Gill, Clarke, JFB, and Barnes.

Context

Epistle · Paul — see the Romans overview for the book's full setting.

1 Let every soul be in subjection to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God.

2 Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment.

3 For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from the same:

4 for he is a 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 a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil.

5 Wherefore ye must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.

6 For for this cause ye pay tribute also; for they are ministers of God’s service, attending continually upon this very thing.

7 Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

8 Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law.

9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not covet, and if there be any other commandment, it is summed up in this word, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.