Romans 13:3 - Revised Version with Apocrypha 1895

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:

More versions

King James Version (Oxford) 1769

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:

Amplified Bible - Classic Edition

³ For civil authorities are not a terror to [people of] good conduct, but to [those of] bad behavior. Would you have no dread of him who is in authority? Then do what is right and you will receive his approval and commendation.

American Standard Version (1901)

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:

Common English Bible

³ The authorities don’t frighten people who are doing the right thing. Rather, they frighten people who are doing wrong. Would you rather not be afraid of authority? Do what’s right, and you will receive its approval.

Catholic Public Domain Version

³ For leaders are not a source of fear to those who work good, but to those who work evil. And would you prefer not to be afraid of authority? Then do what is good, and you shall have praise from them.

Douay-Rheims version of The Bible - 1752 version

³ For princes are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good: and thou shalt have praise from the same.

Romans 13:3 Cross References

Proverbs 14:35

The king's favour is toward a servant that dealeth wisely: But his wrath shall be against him that causeth shame.

Proverbs 20:2

The terror of a king is as the roaring of a lion: He that provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own life.

Romans 13:2

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

Romans 13:4

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.

Deuteronomy 25:1

If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgement, and the judges judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked;