New Testament
Romans 13:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Everyone must submit to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist have been established by God.
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Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
What Romans 13:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 13:1, Paul emphasizes the importance of submitting to governing authorities, stating that all authority comes from God. This means that the leaders and systems in place are part of God's plan for order and structure in society. By submitting to these authorities, believers acknowledge God's sovereignty and the role He plays in governance. This does not mean that all actions of authorities are just or right, but it highlights the principle that God has established a framework for human interaction and societal order. Therefore, Christians are called to respect and obey laws, as long as they do not contradict God's commands. This passage encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate authority and to act with integrity within the systems of their society, promoting peace and order as a reflection of their faith.
How to apply Romans 13:1 to your life
As Christians, we should strive to respect and obey the laws of our land, recognizing that they are part of God's design for order. This means participating in civic duties, such as voting and following regulations, while also standing firm in our faith when laws conflict with God's commands.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
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Plain Meaning
Paul tells every person to submit to governing authorities. He gives two reasons in the same verse. First, all authority comes from God — there is no ruling power that exists apart from Him. Second, the authorities that currently exist have been put in place by God. So resisting them is not a small thing.
Read It in Context
Paul is writing to believers in Rome. Verse 1 opens a section on how they should relate to government. The verses that follow explain that rulers punish wrongdoers and that submitting is a matter of conscience, not just fear of punishment.
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At a Glance — the Book of Romans
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 13:1 mean?
Romans 13:1 teaches that everyone should submit to governing authorities because all authority comes from God. This means that the leaders and systems in place are part of God's plan for maintaining order in society.
What is the meaning of submission to authority in Romans 13:1?
Submission to authority in Romans 13:1 means respecting and obeying the laws and leaders established in society, as they are seen as ordained by God for maintaining order and structure.
How should Christians respond to unjust authorities according to Romans 13:1?
While Romans 13:1 calls for submission to authorities, Christians are encouraged to obey laws as long as they do not contradict God's commands, which means standing firm in faith when faced with unjust laws.
Does Romans 13:1 mean we should obey all laws?
Romans 13:1 encourages respect for governing authorities, but it does not mean that all laws are just. Christians are called to obey laws unless they conflict with God's commands.
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