The Message Bible MSG
New International Version NIV
1 Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it's God's order. So live responsibly as a citizen.
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Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
2 If you're irresponsible to the state, then you're irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible.
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Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
3 Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you're trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear.
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For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.
4 the government working to your advantage. But if you're breaking the rules right and left, watch out. The police aren't there just to be admired in their uniforms. God also has an interest in keeping order, and he uses them to do it.
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For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.
5 That's why you must live responsibly - not just to avoid punishment but also because it's the right way to live.
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Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 That's also why you pay taxes - so that an orderly way of life can be maintained.
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This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing.
7 Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.
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Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.