Romans 13:1-7

Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition

13 Let every soul be subject to higher powers: for there is no power but from God: and those that are, are ordained of God.

² Therefore he that resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God. And they that resist, purchase to themselves damnation.

³ For princes are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Do that which is good: and thou shalt have praise from the same.

⁴ For he is God's minister to thee, for good. But if thou do that which is evil, fear: for he beareth not the sword in vain. For he is God's minister: an avenger to execute wrath upon him that doth evil.

⁵ Wherefore be subject of necessity, not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

⁶ For therefore also you pay tribute. For they are the ministers of God, serving unto this purpose.

⁷ Render therefore to all men their dues. Tribute, to whom tribute is due: custom, to whom custom: fear, to whom fear: honour, to whom honour.