How does Romans 13:5 connect with Jesus' teaching on rendering to Caesar? Setting the Stage Romans 13:5: “Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.” Jesus, in Matthew 22:21, said, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” These verses harmonize seamlessly, giving believers a clear roadmap for living under earthly governments while honoring God above all. Shared Core Principle: God-Ordained Authority • Both passages affirm that governing authority is established by God (Romans 13:1). • Jesus’ acknowledgment of “Caesar’s” rightful due implies legitimacy in earthly government. • Submission is not blind allegiance; it is obedience rooted in recognizing God’s sovereignty over human structures. Why Submission Matters: Conscience, Not Just Consequences • Romans 13:5 highlights two motivations: – Avoiding punishment (external). – Maintaining a clear conscience before God (internal). • Jesus’ words add depth: giving Caesar his due keeps the conscience free from civil rebellion and free to devote heart-level worship to God. • When believers pay taxes or honor civic laws, they do so “for the Lord’s sake” (1 Peter 2:13-17) and can stand before Him without guilt. Practical Outworkings • Pay what you owe—taxes, fees, respect—because conscience links civil duty to obedience to God (Romans 13:7). • Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2). This reinforces the God-given purpose of government: to reward good and restrain evil. • Obey unless civil commands directly conflict with God’s commands (Acts 5:29). Rendering to God still outranks rendering to Caesar. Living in the Tension • Jesus drew a line: some things belong exclusively to God—worship, ultimate allegiance, moral standards. • Romans 13 keeps believers from swinging to lawlessness or political idolatry. • Holding both truths guards us from compromise: we honor rulers, yet reserve our souls for God alone. Encouragement for Today • Every tax form filed or traffic law obeyed can become an act of worship. • A clear conscience before God brings freedom and testimony before people. • In turbulent political times, Romans 13:5 and Jesus’ “Render” remind us that earthly governments rise and fall, but the King of kings remains sovereign and worthy of total trust. |
    |