1 Let every soul submit itself to the higher powers. For there is no power but of God, and the powers that be are ordained of God.2 Whosoever therefore resists the power, resists the ordinance of God, and those that resist shall receive condemnation to themselves.3 For the magistrates are not a terror unto those who do good, but to the [doer of] evil. Is thy desire therefore to not fear the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same;4 for he is [a] minister of God for thy good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain, for he is [a] minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that does evil.5 Therefore it is necessary that [ye] be subject, not only for punishment, but also for conscience sake.6 For for this cause ye also pay [them] tribute, for they are God's ministers, attending continually to this very thing.7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.