Romans 13:3-5

Worldwide English (New Testament)

³ The rulers do not bring fear to a good man, but they bring fear to a bad man. If you do not want to be afraid of a ruler, do what is good and he will praise you.

⁴ Such a person is God's servant and will do what is good for you. But if you do what is wrong, you should fear him. He has great power and he will use it. He is God's servant and will punish those who do wrong.

⁵ So you must obey, not only because of the punishment, but because you know it is right.