Romans 13:1-7
1 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 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 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 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 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 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.
Submitting to the Authorities — Pastor Lonnie D. Bell, Jr.
Romans 13:1-7
Sermon Series: Romans (76th Sermon)
October 31, 2021
DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1. How much attention have you given to the command to submit to the authorities? Why is this an important aspect of our Christian witness?
2. What is the relationship between God and the governing authorities? How does this increase our motivation to be subject to them?
3. As we think about not resisting, how does Acts 5:29 offer an important qualification? How are we tempted to add our own qualifications?
4. What is the role/purpose of government as Paul describes it in these verses? How should this affect the way we view and relate to it?
5. How does this text guide us to worship God while paying our taxes? In what ways do we need to confess not paying the money or respect that is due?
References: Mark 12:17; 1 Peter 2:13-17; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Titus 3:1-2; Daniel 2:21; 4:17; Acts 5:29; Exodus 1:17; Daniel 3:12; Genesis 9:6.