Therefore it is necessary to be in submission—not only because of punishment but also because of conscience.
For this finds favor if, for the sake of conscience toward God, someone endures grief from suffering undeservedly.
“Therefore I do my best always to have a clear conscience before both God and men.
I say: “Obey the king’s command, and especially in regard to the oath of God.
yet with humility and reverence—keeping a clear conscience so that, whatever you are accused of, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Messiah may be put to shame.
Pray for us, for we are convinced that we have a clear conscience, desiring to conduct ourselves honorably in all things.
Who is like the wise person? Who knows the meaning of a matter? A person’s wisdom makes his face shine, transforming the harshness of his face.
For this reason you also pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, attending diligently to this very thing.