Romans 13:1-7

Every soul = all people, every person

Subject = submit to, obey their directions, orders

All power is from God - Hitler, Saddam Hussein, etc. are from God. We may not understand their purpose; "Why would God put them in power?" Same is true of Pharoah (Romans 9:17-20)

Ordained - set in office, appointed, granted the power and authority that goes with that office.

NOTE: Elders are ordained. (Titus 1:5) Preachers are ordained. (1 Timothy 2:7) Apostles were ordained. (Mark 3:14)

2 Resist power = resist ordainance of God

Laws of man = Laws of God.

Only exception - when in conflict - God is higher. (Acts 4:19-20; Acts 5:29)

Resist = damnation

3 Rulers - not a terror to good; but to evil

Do evil = we ought to fear (set cruise control and not fear the policeman with his radar; don't drink = no fear of police and their cameras)

Do good - have praise

4 He = the civil ruler

Minister of God - worker, servant, one who serves

Do evil - be afraid

He has a sword - has right to use it

NOTE: Capital punishment - since Noah's day (Genesis 9:5-6)

Revenger, execute wrath - Vengeance belongs to God, civil government is God's minister to deal with that wrath.

5 Why obey the civil laws?

A. For wrath's sake Fear of punishment

B. For conscience sake Because it is right

6 Pay your taxes - help them continue in doing God's work

7 Render to all their dues

A. Tribute - where trbute is due - to another nation, tax due a foreign government

B. Custom - local taxes

C. Fear - reverence, respect

D. Honor - praise, recognition