New Testament

Romans 13:3

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

At a Glance

In Romans 13:3, Paul explains the role of government and authority.

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

CBTClear Bible Translation

For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to evil. Do you want to live without fear of the authority? Do what is good, and you will receive its approval.

KJVKing James Version

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Romans 13:3, Paul explains the role of government and authority. He emphasizes that rulers are meant to promote good behavior and discourage evil actions. If you act righteously, you have no reason to fear the authorities, as they will commend you for your good deeds. This passage reassures believers that living a life aligned with moral values will lead to approval from those in power. It highlights the idea that good conduct is rewarded, while wrongdoing brings fear and consequences. Essentially, Paul encourages Christians to be law-abiding citizens who contribute positively to society, reinforcing the notion that a just government supports those who do good and punishes those who do wrong. This understanding fosters a sense of security and responsibility among believers, urging them to live in a way that reflects their faith in everyday life.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Romans 13:3 to your life

To apply this verse, focus on living a life of integrity and goodness. Engage positively with your community and respect the laws of the land. By doing so, you not only avoid unnecessary fear but also contribute to a more just society.

Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Romans 13:3 mean?

Romans 13:3 explains that government authorities are meant to reward good behavior and punish wrongdoing. If you act righteously, you should not fear the authorities, as they will commend you for your good deeds.

What is the meaning of 'good conduct' in Romans 13:3?

In Romans 13:3, 'good conduct' refers to actions that align with moral values and societal laws. It emphasizes that behaving well leads to approval from rulers and a sense of security.

How does Romans 13:3 apply to everyday life?

Romans 13:3 encourages individuals to live with integrity and respect for the law. By doing good and contributing positively to society, you can avoid unnecessary fear of authority.

What does Romans 13:3 say about fear of authority?

Romans 13:3 suggests that if you do what is good, you have no reason to fear authority. It reassures believers that good conduct leads to praise rather than punishment.

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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