Romans 13:4

Radiate New Testament

The one in authority serves God for your good. But if you do wrong, watch out! Rulers have been given the power of punishment for a good reason. They’re working for God, and it’s on God’s behalf that they punish people who do wrong.

Cross References

Romans 12:19

My dear friends, don’t try to get even with other people. Leave it up to God to punish them. After all, it’s written that the Lord says, “I’m the one who punishes people who do wrong, and I will pay them back.”

1 Thessalonians 4:6

None of you should sin against your brother or sister by doing that. You shouldn’t take advantage of your brother or sister. The Lord will punish everyone who commits sins like those. We’ve already told you and warned you about that.

Romans 13:6

You must also pay taxes for the same reason. The authorities are working full time for God as rulers, and they need to be supported.

1 Peter 2:14

Also obey the governors that the emperor sends to punish people who do wrong and praise those who do right.