1 Let every soul be subject to the higher authorities. For there is no authority but of God; the authorities that exist are ordained by God.

2 So that the one resisting the authority resists the ordinance of God; and the ones who resist will receive judgment to themselves.

3 For the rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the bad. And do you desire to be not afraid of the authority? Do the good, and you shall have praise from it.

4 For it is a servant of God to you for good. For if you practice evil, be afraid, for it does not bear the sword in vain; for it is a servant of God, a revenger for wrath on him who does evil.

5 Therefore [you] must be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

6 For because of this you also pay taxes. For they are God's servants, always giving attention to this very thing.

7 Therefore give to all [their] dues; to the [one due] tax, the tax; tribute to whom tribute [is due], fear to whom fear [is due], and honor to whom honor [is due].