13 Submit(A) to every human authority because of the Lord, whether to the emperor[a] as the supreme authority(B) 14 or to governors as those sent out by him to punish those who do what is evil and to praise those who do what is good. 15 For it is God’s will(C) that you silence the ignorance(D) of foolish people by doing good. 16 Submit as free people, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil,(E) but as God’s slaves.(F) 17 Honor everyone. Love(G) the brothers and sisters.(H) Fear God.(I) Honor the emperor.

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Footnotes

  1. 2:13 Or king

Respecting People in Authority

13 For the Lord’s sake, submit to all human authority—whether the king as head of state, 14 or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honor those who do right.

15 It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. 16 For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. 17 Respect everyone, and love the family of believers.[a] Fear God, and respect the king.

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Footnotes

  1. 2:17 Greek love the brotherhood.