New Testament

Romans 13:2

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Romans 13:2, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of respecting authority, as it is established by God.

Author: Paul the apostle
Written: Around AD 57
Genre: Letter (epistle)
Original Audience: Christians in Rome

CBTClear Bible Translation

So whoever resists the authority is opposing what God has established, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.

KJVKing James Version

Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 13:2, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of respecting authority, as it is established by God. When individuals resist or oppose governing authorities, they are essentially opposing God's order. This resistance can lead to serious consequences, as it invites judgment upon oneself. The verse highlights that authority figures are put in place for a reason, and rebelling against them is not just a political act but a spiritual one. It serves as a reminder that God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including governance. Therefore, believers are encouraged to submit to authorities, recognizing that they are part of God's plan for maintaining order and justice in society. This does not mean blind obedience to corrupt leaders, but rather an understanding that God ultimately holds authority over all and that resisting earthly powers can have spiritual ramifications.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 13:2 to your life

As believers, we should strive to respect and submit to the authorities in our lives, recognizing their role in God's plan. This means engaging in civic duties responsibly and addressing injustices through lawful means rather than rebellion. Trusting God’s sovereignty helps us navigate difficult situations with grace.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 13:2 mean?

Romans 13:2 means that resisting authority is equivalent to opposing God's established order. It warns that such resistance can lead to judgment upon oneself.

What is the meaning of authority in Romans 13:2?

In Romans 13:2, authority refers to governing powers that are instituted by God. The verse emphasizes the importance of respecting these authorities as part of God's plan for order.

What are the consequences of resisting authority according to Romans 13:2?

According to Romans 13:2, those who resist authority will bring judgment upon themselves. This suggests that opposing established powers can have serious spiritual repercussions.

How should Christians respond to corrupt leaders based on Romans 13:2?

Christians should respect authority as established by God, but this does not mean blind obedience. They can address injustices through lawful means while recognizing God's ultimate authority.

Book Summary

The Book of Romans

Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness

Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.

Paul says he is ready to preach the gospel in Rome and declares he is not ashamed of it, because it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. He states that the righteousness of God is revealed in the gospel from faith to faith. He then describes the wrath of God revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth. He says people know God through creation, yet they do not glorify him as God. Their thinking becomes empty, and their foolish heart is darkened. They exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images of corruptible creatures. God gives them over to uncleanness, dishonorable passions, and a reprobate mind. They fill themselves with all manner of unrighteousness and continue in these things while approving others who do the same. Romans 2: God's Righteous Judgment Paul addresses a person who judges others and says that anyone who judges commits the same kinds of sins. He warns that God's judgment is according to truth and that those who continue in evil will not escape. He explains that God will render to every man according to his deeds: eternal life to those who continue in well-doing, and indignation and wrath to those who obey unrighteousness. He says there is no respect of persons with God. Gentiles who sin without the law perish without the law, and Jews who sin under the law are judged by the law.

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