Romans 13:2-4

American Standard Version

² Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment. ³ For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from the same: ⁴ for ^[a]he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for ^[b]he beareth not the sword in vain: for ^[c]he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil.