Romans 13:5

5 That's why you must live responsibly - not just to avoid punishment but also because it's the right way to live.

Romans 13:5 Meaning and Commentary

Romans 13:5

Wherefore ye must needs be subject
To the higher powers, to the civil magistrates; there is a necessity of it, because magistracy is God's ordinance, it is for the good of men; and such that oppose it will severely smart for it: but subjection to it from Christians should be,

not only for wrath;
through fear of punishment, and for the sake of escaping it; either the wrath of men or of God, in this or the other world:

but also for conscience sake:
to keep conscience clear, to exercise a good one void of offence towards God and men; for natural reason, conscience itself, dictates that there ought to be such order among men, that civil government should take place, and ought to be submitted to.

Romans 13:5 In-Context

3 Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you're trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear.

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.

5 That's why you must live responsibly - not just to avoid punishment but also because it's the right way to live.

6 That's also why you pay taxes - so that an orderly way of life can be maintained.

7 Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.