English
Português
Español
Français
Response
In the initial part of Romans 13, Paul discusses how followers of Christ should engage with government and governing authorities. In this context, he makes the noteworthy statement that the government “does not wield the sword in vain” «for he is the servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain: for he is the servant of God, an avenger to execute wrath on the one who practices evil. », (Romans 13:4, ESV).
Paul’s epistle to the Romans serves as an exposition of the gospel message concerning righteousness. The opening segment affirms the universal necessity for God’s righteousness and its manifestation in the gospel (Romans 1:1—3:20). After establishing the widespread need for God’s righteousness, Paul elucidates how God imparts righteousness to humanity—through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21—4:25). Subsequently, Paul delineates the implications of that righteousness and the transformed life that ensues from it (Romans 5—8). Paul emphasizes how God will fulfill His promises and proves to be reliable (Romans 9—11). Lastly, Paul outlines the duties that believers bear in embodying that righteousness (Romans 12—16). It is within this concluding section that Paul elucidates the manifestation of righteousness for followers of Christ concerning government and governing authorities. Paul underscores the significance of government, stating that it does not wield the sword in vain, signifying “they possess the authority to discipline you” «for he is the servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain, for he is the servant of God, an avenger to execute wrath on the one who practices evil. ».
In Romans 13:4, it is stated, “for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that does evil.”, (Romans 13:4, NLT).
Paul urges believers to submit to the governing authorities because authority is established by God. “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.”, (Romans 13:1). Since God is the ultimate source of authority, those who resist the authority established by God are in opposition to Him and will face condemnation. “Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.”, (Romans 13:2). Leaders who wield God’s authority should not be feared by those who do good. “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:”, (Romans 13:3); instead, these authorities are God’s servants for good to those who do good—but for those who do evil, governmental authority serves as a wrathful avenger. “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 does evil.”, (Romans 13:4). Submission is prudent both to avoid wrath and to maintain a clear conscience. “Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.”, (Romans 13:5). PauIt offers the example of paying taxes. It is appropriate to render tax to whom tax is due “For this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.” , (Romans 13:6). The government does not bear the sword—the power to execute—in vain. That sword is entrusted to the government by God.
In Genesis 9, as part of God’s covenant with Noah and all living things on the earth, God explains a new administration in which whoever sheds human blood will have their blood shed “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.” , (Genesis 9:6). In this mandate, God gives His own authority to humanity to mete out judgment for murder. In this, He establishes human government.
The specific instructions in Genesis 9:6 underscore the value of human life (because humanity is made in the image and likeness of God) and the responsibility of humanity to ensure that human life is protected. It is fair to say that if the government is not guarding human life in this way, then it is not functioning as designed and it is not stewarding faithfully the sword God gave.
One day, the Messiah will reign as King, and on Him will be the government (Isaiah 9:6-7; Revelation 20:4-6). Until then, imperfect people will be leading governments and will imperfectly steward the authority and the sword that God gave. In light of those limitations, Peter instructs believers to honor authority and be subject to every human institution (1 Peter 2:13-14)—including kings and governors as those who have been sent by God. That is part of honoring all people and honoring the king “Honour.”
Love all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. », (1 Peter 2:17).
Government does not bear the sword in vain, and leaders are accountable for their actions with that sword. Kings, governors, and other leaders should evaluate their governance against the standards provided in Scripture to ensure that they are leading well. They should indeed praise those who do right and judge evildoers «or unto governors, as unto those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of those who do well. », (1 Peter 2:14).
