How does Acts 22:29 connect to Romans 13:1-7 on respecting authority?

Setting the Stage: Paul in Jerusalem

“So those who were about to interrogate him withdrew at once, and the commander himself was alarmed when he realized that Paul was a Roman citizen and he had bound him.” (Acts 22:29)

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The Divine Principle in Romans 13:1-7

“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God…” (Romans 13:1-7—see full passage for context)

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How Acts 22:29 Models Romans 13

• Respectful Appeal: Paul submits to the officer’s authority but calmly asserts his lawful right as a Roman citizen (v. 25).

• Authority’s Accountability: The commander “was alarmed” (v. 29). Romans 13 reminds rulers they are “God’s servant” (v. 4); abusing power carries consequences.

• Lawful Process: Paul does not riot or resist; he uses the legal system—mirroring Romans 13’s call to live peaceably under God-ordained structures.

• Conscience and Witness: By honoring due process, Paul maintains a clear conscience (Romans 13:5) and leaves no legitimate charge against the gospel (cf. 1 Peter 2:12).

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Additional Scriptural Threads

• Acts 16:37-38—Paul again invokes citizenship, pressing magistrates to uphold justice.

• Acts 25:11—he appeals to Caesar, trusting God’s sovereignty over imperial courts.

• 1 Peter 2:13-17—“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution.”

• Titus 3:1—“Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient.”

• Matthew 22:21—Jesus: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

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Living It Out Today

• Honor governing authorities as God’s provision, even when imperfect.

• Use lawful channels—letters, courts, voting—without rebellion or contempt.

• Keep a clear conscience: obey unless commanded to sin (Acts 5:29).

• Let respectful conduct silence critics and amplify the gospel’s credibility.