Romans 13:1-7

International Children’s Bible

Christians Should Obey the Law

13 All of you must obey the government rulers. No one rules unless God has given him the power to rule. And no one rules now without that power from God. ² So if anyone is against the government, he is really against what God has commanded. And so he brings punishment on himself. ³ Those who do right do not have to fear the rulers. But people who do wrong must fear them. Do you want to be unafraid of the rulers? Then do what is right, and the ruler will praise you. ⁴ He is God’s servant to help you. But if you do wrong, then be afraid. The ruler has the power to punish; he is God’s servant to punish those who do wrong. ⁵ So you must obey the government. You must obey not only because you might be punished, but because you know it is the right thing to do.

⁶ And this is also why you pay taxes. Rulers are working for God and give their time to their work. ⁷ Pay everyone, then, what you owe him. If you owe any kind of tax, pay it. Show respect and honor to them all.