⁷ Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.

¹⁷ Respect everyone, and love the family of believers.^[a] Fear God, and respect the king.

Slaves

¹⁸ You who are slaves must submit to your masters with all respect.^[b] Do what they tell you—not only if they are kind and reasonable, but even if they are cruel.

²⁵ “Well then,” he said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”

²⁵ “Yes, he does,” Peter replied. Then he went into the house.

But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, “What do you think, Peter?^[a] Do kings tax their own people or the people they have conquered?^[b]”

¹⁷ Elders who do their work well should be respected and paid well,^[a] especially those who work hard at both preaching and teaching.

²¹ “Caesar’s,” they replied.

“Well, then,” he said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”

Slaves and Masters

⁵ Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ.

Husbands

⁷ In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered.

6 All slaves should show full respect for their masters so they will not bring shame on the name of God and his teaching.