1 Let every soul submit to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except by God, and the authorities that exist are instituted by God.2 Consequently the [one] resisting the authority has opposed the ordinance of God, and those opposing shall receive judgment to themselves.3 For rulers are not a fear to good works, but to evil. And do you wish not to fear the authority?[ ]Do what is good, and you shall have praise from the same.4 For he is God's servant to you for good. But if you do evil, fear; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's servant, an avenger for wrath to the [one] practicing evil.5 Therefore it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also for conscience' sake.6 For on account of this you also pay taxes, for they are ministers of God, always giving attention to this very thing.7 Render therefore to all their dues: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.