What is the meaning of Romans 13:7? Pay everyone what you owe him Romans 13:7 opens with a sweeping command: “Pay everyone what you owe him.” • Paul ties this to the governing-authority discussion that began in Romans 13:1–6, reminding believers that obedience to God often runs through ordinary civic responsibilities. • Cross references like Proverbs 3:27 (“Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act”) and Matthew 22:21 (“Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”) confirm the consistent biblical call to settle all rightful obligations. • The verse’s structure shows four examples, not an exhaustive list; the principle covers every debt—monetary, verbal, relational, or spiritual—that love and justice require us to pay (Romans 13:8). Taxes to whom taxes are due “Taxes” points to the regular, fixed levies imposed by the state. • Jesus modeled submission by paying the temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27) and teaching, “Render to Caesar” (Matthew 22:17-21). • Romans 13:6 explains that rulers are “God’s servants” who need revenue to carry out their work; paying taxes recognizes God’s provision of order through government. • 1 Peter 2:13-14, 17 echoes the same call: “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution… honor the emperor.” The takeaway: drafting a budget check to the IRS (or its equivalent) can be an act of worship when done with a willing heart. Revenue to whom revenue is due “Revenue” (often translated “custom” or “tariff”) covers variable fees, tolls, and business duties. • John the Baptist told tax collectors, “Collect no more than you are authorized” (Luke 3:12-13), implying that the public must also pay what is authorized. • Zacchaeus demonstrated repentance by restoring improperly taken customs fourfold and giving to the poor (Luke 19:8). • Romans 12:17 warns, “Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody,” a principle that applies to every financial dealing, formal or informal. Settling these lesser-known obligations—licensing fees, import duties, and the like—keeps our consciences clear and our witness credible. Respect to whom respect is due Here Paul shifts from money to attitude. “Respect” (or “fear”) recognizes positional authority. • The command reflects Exodus 22:28: “You must not curse God, nor curse a ruler of your people.” • When Paul appeared before the Sanhedrin, he apologized for speaking rashly to the high priest once he realized his position (Acts 23:4-5), modeling respectful speech even under pressure. • Titus 3:1-2 urges believers “to be subject to rulers and authorities… to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate.” Practical expressions include courteous language, prompt compliance with lawful orders, and praying for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Honor to whom honor is due “Honor” goes beyond respect; it assigns value and esteem. • 1 Peter 2:17 condenses civic duty into four words: “Honor the emperor.” The same verse pairs it with “Love the brotherhood,” showing that honoring authorities does not negate, but complements, Christian fellowship. • Honoring parents (Ephesians 6:2) and elders who direct the church (1 Timothy 5:17) shows that honor operates in every sphere God has ordained. • Revelation 5:13 pictures all creation giving “honor and glory” to the Lamb, reminding us that earthly honor mirrors the ultimate honor God deserves. Displaying honor can look like speaking well of leaders in public, writing a thank-you note, or standing during a judge’s entrance—small gestures that proclaim a big theology: authority is God-given. summary Romans 13:7 calls believers to settle every debt—financial, civic, and relational. Paying taxes and fees funds the governing structures God has allowed; offering respect and honor upholds the dignity of those He has placed in authority. When Christians faithfully meet these obligations, they showcase integrity, submit to God’s order, and clear the way for the gospel to shine without hindrance. |
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