1 Let every soul be subject to the authorities that are above {him}. For there is no authority except from God; and those that exist are set up by God.
2 So that he that sets himself in opposition to the authority resists the ordinance of God; and they who {thus} resist shall bring sentence of guilt on themselves.
3 For rulers are not a terror to a good work, but to an evil {one}. Dost thou desire then not to be afraid of the authority? practise {what is} good, and thou shalt have praise from it;
4 for it is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou practisest evil, fear; for it bears not the sword in vain; for it is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil.
5 Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also on account of conscience.
6 For on this account ye pay tribute also; for they are God's officers, attending continually on this very thing.
7 Render to all their dues: to whom tribute {is due}, tribute; to whom custom, custom; to whom fear, fear; to whom honour, honour.