Romans 13:3-5

American Standard Version

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. ⁵ Wherefore ye must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.