What is the meaning of Romans 13:3? For rulers are not a terror to good conduct “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct…” (Romans 13:3a) • God ordains governing authorities to promote order, not to intimidate those who live uprightly (see 1 Peter 2:14, “to praise those who do right”). • When laws mirror God’s moral standards, they function as a shield for citizens who act with integrity (Proverbs 28:2). • The believer who walks in honesty and charity need not dread lawful oversight (Psalm 112:6–8). but to bad “…but to bad.” (Romans 13:3b) • Civil government is an instrument to restrain evil, just as the law exposes sin (1 Timothy 1:9–10). • Punishment of wrongdoing reflects God’s justice delegated to earthly rulers (Genesis 9:6). • Even flawed authorities often curb violence, theft, and disorder, allowing society to flourish (Judges 21:25 shows the chaos when no king restrains evil). Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? “Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority?” (Romans 13:3c) • Paul invites a practical response: living so that conscience is clear before both God and government (Acts 24:16). • Freedom from fear grows where obedience replaces rebellion (Ecclesiastes 8:5). • Respecting lawful commands expresses submission to God, who stands behind delegated authority (Romans 13:1). Then do what is right “Then do what is right…” (Romans 13:3d) • Right action includes: – Obeying just laws (Titus 3:1). – Paying taxes and dues (Romans 13:7). – Showing respect and honor (1 Peter 2:17). – Loving neighbors, fulfilling the law’s intent (Romans 13:8–10). • Such conduct blesses communities and adorns the gospel (Matthew 5:16). and you will have his approval “…and you will have his approval.” (Romans 13:3e) • Governments often commend exemplary citizens through security, opportunities, or formal recognition (Proverbs 14:35). • Even when rulers fail to reward good, God sees and will vindicate righteousness (1 Peter 2:19–20; Romans 2:6–7). • The believer’s ultimate approval comes from the Lord, yet civil praise affirms virtue in public life (Matthew 25:21). summary Romans 13:3 teaches that God established civil rulers to protect those who live honorably and to punish wrongdoing. By choosing what is right—obeying laws, respecting authority, and loving our neighbors—we can live without fear of government and often enjoy its commendation. Where human approval falters, God’s commendation remains sure, motivating continual, visible goodness in a watching world. |
    |