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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Romans 13:4 For he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God's servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/romans/13-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/12/45_Rom_13_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Romans 13:4 - Submission to Authorities" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God's servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/romans/13-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/romans/13-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/romans/">Romans</a> > <a href="/romans/13.htm">Chapter 13</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/romans/13-3.htm" title="Romans 13:3">◄</a> Romans 13:4 <a href="/romans/13-5.htm" title="Romans 13:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/romans/13.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/romans/13.htm">New International Version</a> For the one in authority is God&#8217s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God&#8217s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. <a href="/nlt/romans/13.htm">New Living Translation</a> The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. <a href="/esv/romans/13.htm">English Standard Version</a> for he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer. <a href="/bsb/romans/13.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer. <a href="/blb/romans/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For he is God's servant to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For He is God's servant, an avenger for wrath to the one doing evil. <a href="/kjv/romans/13.htm">King James Bible</a> For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. <a href="/nkjv/romans/13.htm">New King James Version</a> For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. <a href="/nasb_/romans/13.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> for it is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a servant of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. <a href="/nasb/romans/13.htm">NASB 1995</a> for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. <a href="/nasb77/romans/13.htm">NASB 1977 </a> for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath upon the one who practices evil. <a href="/lsb/romans/13.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword in vain, for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. <a href="/amp/romans/13.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For he is God’s servant to you for good. But if you do wrong, [you should] be afraid; for he does not carry the [executioner’s] sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an avenger who brings punishment on the wrongdoer. <a href="/csb/romans/13.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For it is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For it is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. <a href="/hcsb/romans/13.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For government is God&#8217s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God&#8217s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. <a href="/asv/romans/13.htm">American Standard Version</a> for he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. <a href="/cev/romans/13.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> After all, they are God's servants, and it is their duty to help you. If you do something wrong, you ought to be afraid, because these rulers have the right to punish you. They are God's servants who punish criminals to show how angry God is. <a href="/erv/romans/13.htm">English Revised Version</a> for he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil. <a href="/gwt/romans/13.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The government is God's servant working for your good. But if you do what is wrong, you should be afraid. The government has the right to carry out the death sentence. It is God's servant, an avenger to execute God's anger on anyone who does what is wrong. <a href="/gnt/romans/13.htm">Good News Translation</a> because they are God's servants working for your own good. But if you do evil, then be afraid of them, because their power to punish is real. They are God's servants and carry out God's punishment on those who do evil. <a href="/isv/romans/13.htm">International Standard Version</a> For they are God's servants, working for your good. But if you do what is wrong, you should be afraid, for it is not without reason that they bear the sword. Indeed, they are God's servants to administer punishment to anyone who does wrong. <a href="/msb/romans/13.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For he is God?s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God?s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer. <a href="/net/romans/13.htm">NET Bible</a> for it is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be in fear, for it does not bear the sword in vain. It is God's servant to administer retribution on the wrongdoer. <a href="/nheb/romans/13.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil. <a href="/wbt/romans/13.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou doest that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, an avenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. <a href="/wey/romans/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For he is God's servant for your benefit. But if you do what is wrong, be afraid. He does not wear the sword to no purpose: he is God's servant--an administrator to inflict punishment upon evil-doers. <a href="/web/romans/13.htm">World English Bible</a> for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn’t bear the sword in vain; for he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/romans/13.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for it is a servant of God to you for good; and if you may do that which is evil, be fearing, for it does not bear the sword in vain; for it is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to him who is doing that which is evil. <a href="/blb/romans/13.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For he is God's servant to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For He is God's servant, an avenger for wrath to the one doing evil. <a href="/ylt/romans/13.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for of God it is a ministrant to thee for good; and if that which is evil thou mayest do, be fearing, for not in vain doth it bear the sword; for of God it is a ministrant, an avenger for wrath to him who is doing that which is evil. <a href="/slt/romans/13.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For he is servant of God to thee for good. And if thou do evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword without order: for he is servant of God, avenging for anger to him doing evil.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/romans/13.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> 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. <a href="/cpdv/romans/13.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For he is a minister of God for you unto good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid. For it is not without reason that he carries a sword. For he is a minister of God; an avenger to execute wrath upon whomever does evil. <a href="/nabre/romans/13.htm">New American Bible</a> for it is a servant of God for your good. But if you do evil, be afraid, for it does not bear the sword without purpose; it is the servant of God to inflict wrath on the evildoer. <a href="/nrsvce/romans/13.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> for it is God’s servant for your good. But if you do what is wrong, you should be afraid, for the authority does not bear the sword in vain! It is the servant of God to execute wrath on the wrongdoer.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/romans/13.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is wrong, be afraid; for he is not girded with the sword in vain; for he is the minister of God, and an avenger of wrath upon those who commit crime. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/romans/13.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For he is the Minister of God to you for good. But if you have done evil, be afraid, for he does not wear the sword for nothing, for he is the Minister of God and a furious avenger to those who do evil.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/romans/13.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For he is the minister of God to you for that which is good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain. For he is the minister of God to inflict punishment on him that does evil.<CM> <a href="/godbey/romans/13.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> for he is the minister of God for you for good. But if you do evil, fear; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, executing judgment unto wrath unto the one doing evil. <a href="/haweis/romans/13.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou doest that which is evil, tremble! for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, an avenger to inflict wrath on him that practises what is evil. <a href="/mace/romans/13.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for his administration is appointed by God for your good, but if you do wrong, you have reason to be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: he being the minister of God, to execute punishment upon malefactors. <a href="/wey/romans/13.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For he is God's servant for your benefit. But if you do what is wrong, be afraid. He does not wear the sword to no purpose: he is God's servant--an administrator to inflict punishment upon evil-doers. <a href="/worrell/romans/13.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> for he is God's minister to you for good. But, if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil. <a href="/worsley/romans/13.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> for he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou dost evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is also the minister of God, as an avenger to execute his wrath upon the malefactor. <a href="/parallel/romans/13-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KIZs4GUMn-g?start=3228" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/romans/13.htm">Submission to Authorities</a> …3For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. 4<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">he is</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God’s</a> <a href="/greek/1249.htm" title="1249: diakonos (N-NMS) -- Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor.">servant</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">for</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: soi (PPro-D2S) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">your</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/18.htm" title="18: agathon (Adj-ANS) -- A primary word; good.">good.</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/4160.htm" title="4160: poiēs (V-PSA-2S) -- (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do.">you do</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2556.htm" title="2556: kakon (Adj-ANS) -- Bad, evil, in the widest sense. Apparently a primary word; worthless, i.e. depraved, or injurious.">wrong,</a> <a href="/greek/5399.htm" title="5399: phobou (V-PMM/P-2S) -- From phobos; to frighten, i.e. to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. Revere.">be afraid,</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">for</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/5409.htm" title="5409: phorei (V-PIA-3S) -- To carry, wear, bear constantly. From phoros; to have a burden, i.e. to wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment.">he does not carry</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3162.htm" title="3162: machairan (N-AFS) -- A sword. Probably feminine of a presumed derivative of mache; a knife, i.e. Dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment.">sword</a> <a href="/greek/1500.htm" title="1500: eikē (Adv) -- Without a cause, purpose; purposelessly, in vain, for nothing. Probably from eiko; idly, i.e. Without reason.">in vain.</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">He is</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God’s</a> <a href="/greek/1249.htm" title="1249: diakonos (N-NMS) -- Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor.">servant,</a> <a href="/greek/1558.htm" title="1558: ekdikos (Adj-NMS) -- From ek and dike; carrying justice out, i.e. A punisher.">an agent</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">of</a> <a href="/greek/3709.htm" title="3709: orgēn (N-AFS) -- From oregomai; properly, desire, i.e., violent passion (justifiable) abhorrence); by implication punishment.">retribution</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to the</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4238.htm" title="4238: prassonti (V-PPA-DMS) -- To do, perform, accomplish; be in any condition, i.e. I fare; I exact, require. "></a> <a href="/greek/2556.htm" title="2556: kakon (Adj-ANS) -- Bad, evil, in the widest sense. Apparently a primary word; worthless, i.e. depraved, or injurious.">wrongdoer.</a> 5Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/1_peter/2-13.htm">1 Peter 2:13-14</a> Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, / or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. <a href="/proverbs/8-15.htm">Proverbs 8:15-16</a> By me kings reign, and rulers enact just laws; / By me princes rule, and all nobles who govern justly. <a href="/1_timothy/2-1.htm">1 Timothy 2:1-2</a> First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— / for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. <a href="/titus/3-1.htm">Titus 3:1</a> Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work, <a href="/daniel/2-21.htm">Daniel 2:21</a> He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. <a href="/matthew/22-21.htm">Matthew 22:21</a> “Caesar’s,” they answered. So Jesus told them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” <a href="/1_samuel/24-6.htm">1 Samuel 24:6</a> So he said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed. May I never lift my hand against him, since he is the LORD’s anointed.” <a href="/acts/5-29.htm">Acts 5:29</a> But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. <a href="/ecclesiastes/8-2.htm">Ecclesiastes 8:2-5</a> Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God. / Do not hasten to leave his presence, and do not persist in a bad cause, for he will do whatever he pleases. / For the king’s word is supreme, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?” ... <a href="/john/19-11.htm">John 19:11</a> Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed Me over to you is guilty of greater sin.” <a href="/1_kings/3-28.htm">1 Kings 3:28</a> When all Israel heard of the judgment the king had given, they stood in awe of him, for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him to administer justice. <a href="/deuteronomy/16-18.htm">Deuteronomy 16:18</a> You are to appoint judges and officials for your tribes in every town that the LORD your God is giving you. They are to judge the people with righteous judgment. <a href="/1_chronicles/29-12.htm">1 Chronicles 29:12</a> Both riches and honor come from You, and You are the ruler over all. In Your hands are power and might to exalt and give strength to all. <a href="/psalms/82-6.htm">Psalm 82:6</a> I have said, ‘You are gods; you are all sons of the Most High.’ <a href="/isaiah/45-1.htm">Isaiah 45:1</a> This is what the LORD says to Cyrus His anointed, whose right hand I have grasped to subdue nations before him, to disarm kings, to open the doors before him, so that the gates will not be shut:</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For he is the minister of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid; for he bears not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath on him that does evil.he is.<a href="/romans/13-6.htm">Romans 13:6</a> For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.<a href="/1_kings/10-9.htm">1 Kings 10:9</a> Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel: because the LORD loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, to do judgment and justice.<a href="/2_chronicles/19-6.htm">2 Chronicles 19:6</a> And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the LORD, who is with you in the judgment.be.<a href="/proverbs/16-14.htm">Proverbs 16:14</a> The wrath of a king is as messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.<a href="/proverbs/20-2.htm">Proverbs 20:2,8,26</a> The fear of a king is as the roaring of a lion: whoso provoketh him to anger sinneth against his own soul… revenger.<a href="/romans/12-19.htm">Romans 12:19</a> Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.<a href="/numbers/35-19.htm">Numbers 35:19-27</a> The revenger of blood himself shall slay the murderer: when he meeteth him, he shall slay him… <a href="/joshua/20-5.htm">Joshua 20:5,9</a> And if the avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly, and hated him not beforetime… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/romans/12-7.htm">Administrator</a> <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/isaiah/28-2.htm">Agent</a> <a href="/nahum/1-2.htm">Avenger</a> <a href="/romans/11-18.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/romans/8-16.htm">Beareth</a> <a href="/romans/6-22.htm">Benefit</a> <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/romans/4-5.htm">Evil-Doer</a> <a href="/romans/5-6.htm">Evil-Doers</a> <a href="/romans/9-28.htm">Execute</a> <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/romans/11-20.htm">Fearing</a> <a href="/romans/13-2.htm">God's</a> <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Good</a> <a href="/romans/8-34.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/john/15-21.htm">Inflict</a> <a href="/romans/9-28.htm">Making</a> <a href="/romans/11-22.htm">Mayest</a> <a href="/acts/28-10.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/acts/13-5.htm">Ministrant</a> <a href="/romans/10-5.htm">Practices</a> <a href="/romans/13-2.htm">Punishment</a> <a href="/romans/12-2.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/numbers/35-27.htm">Revenger</a> <a href="/romans/9-12.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/romans/8-35.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/romans/4-14.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/luke/18-5.htm">Wear</a> <a href="/romans/12-19.htm">Wrath</a> <a href="/romans/13-3.htm">Wrong</a> <a href="/acts/25-11.htm">Wrongdoer</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_kings/18-18.htm">Administrator</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-10.htm">Afraid</a> <a href="/nehemiah/11-24.htm">Agent</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-6.htm">Avenger</a> <a href="/romans/13-9.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-7.htm">Beareth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-6.htm">Benefit</a> <a href="/romans/14-16.htm">Evil</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-9.htm">Evil-Doer</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-9.htm">Evil-Doers</a> <a href="/jude/1-14.htm">Execute</a> <a href="/romans/13-5.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/galatians/2-12.htm">Fearing</a> <a href="/romans/13-5.htm">God's</a> <a href="/romans/14-4.htm">Good</a> <a href="/romans/13-12.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-8.htm">Inflict</a> <a href="/romans/15-20.htm">Making</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-21.htm">Mayest</a> <a href="/romans/15-8.htm">Minister</a> <a href="/romans/16-1.htm">Ministrant</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-25.htm">Practices</a> <a href="/romans/13-5.htm">Punishment</a> <a href="/romans/14-1.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/numbers/35-19.htm">Revenger</a> <a href="/romans/13-6.htm">Servant</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-17.htm">Sword</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-20.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-6.htm">Wear</a> <a href="/romans/13-5.htm">Wrath</a> <a href="/romans/13-10.htm">Wrong</a> <a href="/galatians/2-18.htm">Wrongdoer</a><div class="vheading2">Romans 13</div>1. <a href="/romans/13-1.htm">Subjection, and many other duties, we owe to the authorities.</a> 8. <a href="/romans/13-8.htm">Love is the fulfillment of the law.</a> 11. <a href="/romans/13-11.htm">The acts of darkness are out of season in the time of the Gospel.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/13.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/romans/13.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For he is God’s servant for your good. This phrase emphasizes the role of governing authorities as divinely appointed servants. The term "servant" (Greek: diakonos) suggests a role of service and duty, aligning with the biblical principle that all authority is established by God (<a href="/romans/13.htm">Romans 13:1</a>). This reflects the Old Testament understanding of leaders like King David, who were seen as shepherds of God's people (<a href="/2_samuel/5-2.htm">2 Samuel 5:2</a>). The purpose of this service is for the "good" of the people, indicating that the primary role of government is to promote justice and societal well-being, echoing the wisdom literature's call for righteous leadership (<a href="/proverbs/29-2.htm">Proverbs 29:2</a>).But if you do wrong, be afraid, This phrase introduces the concept of accountability and the fear of consequences for wrongdoing. The fear mentioned here is not merely emotional but a recognition of the authority's power to enforce laws. This aligns with the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (<a href="/galatians/6-7.htm">Galatians 6:7</a>) and the understanding that God uses human institutions to maintain order and justice. The fear of punishment serves as a deterrent to evil actions, similar to the warnings found in the Mosaic Law (<a href="/deuteronomy/13-11.htm">Deuteronomy 13:11</a>).for he does not carry the sword in vain. The "sword" symbolizes the authority's power to enforce laws, including the use of force if necessary. In the Roman context, the sword was a symbol of the magistrate's power to execute justice, including capital punishment. This reflects the broader biblical theme of divine justice, where God uses human agents to execute His judgment (<a href="/genesis/9-6.htm">Genesis 9:6</a>). The phrase underscores the seriousness of governmental authority and its role in maintaining order, resonating with the prophetic calls for justice and righteousness (<a href="/isaiah/1-17.htm">Isaiah 1:17</a>).He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer. Reiterating the role of the authority as God's servant, this phrase highlights the aspect of retribution. The concept of retribution is deeply rooted in biblical justice, where wrongdoing is met with appropriate consequences (<a href="/exodus/21-23.htm">Exodus 21:23-25</a>). The authority acts as an "agent" (Greek: ekdikos), meaning one who carries out justice on behalf of another, in this case, God. This reflects the divine mandate given to rulers to uphold justice and punish evil, as seen in the roles of judges and kings throughout Israel's history (<a href="/1_kings/3-28.htm">1 Kings 3:28</a>). The phrase underscores the moral responsibility of authorities to act justly, aligning with the prophetic vision of a world where justice prevails (<a href="/amos/5-24.htm">Amos 5:24</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the Book of Romans, addressing the Christian community in Rome. 2. <a href="/topical/r/roman_authorities.htm">Roman Authorities</a> The governing bodies in Rome during the time of Paul's writing, representing civil authority. 3. <a href="/topical/c/christian_community_in_rome.htm">Christian Community in Rome</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, navigating their faith under Roman rule. 4. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The ultimate authority who ordains earthly rulers as His servants. 5. <a href="/topical/w/wrongdoers.htm">Wrongdoers</a> Individuals who act contrary to the laws and moral standards established by God and enforced by authorities.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/divine_ordination_of_authority.htm">Divine Ordination of Authority</a> Recognize that all authority is established by God, and rulers serve as His agents for maintaining order and justice. <a href="/topical/r/role_of_government.htm">Role of Government</a> Understand that the primary role of government is to promote good and restrain evil, acting as God's servant for societal welfare. <a href="/topical/f/fear_of_retribution.htm">Fear of Retribution</a> Acknowledge that fear of punishment is a legitimate deterrent for wrongdoing, as authorities are empowered to enforce justice. <a href="/topical/c/christian_conduct.htm">Christian Conduct</a> As Christians, we are called to live righteously and respect authority, reflecting our ultimate submission to God. <a href="/topical/b/balancing_obedience_and_conscience.htm">Balancing Obedience and Conscience</a> While respecting authority, discern when obedience to God takes precedence, especially when human laws conflict with divine commands.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_romans_13.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Romans 13</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'bear_the_sword'_mean.htm">What does "bear the sword" mean in Romans 13:4?</a> <a href="/q/is_killing_in_war_considered_murder.htm">Is killing in war considered murder?</a> <a href="/q/pray_for_leaders'_well-being.htm">Should we pray for the well-being of our leaders?</a> <a href="/q/what_defines_just_war_theory.htm">What principles define the Just War Theory?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/romans/13.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) The sword.--Not apparently the dagger worn by the Roman emperors, but, in a strict sense, "the sword." "To bear the sword" seems to be a recognised Greek phrase to express the power of the magistrates. It was carried before them in processions, and on other important occasions.It is clear from this passage that capital punishment is sanctioned by Scripture. At the same time its abolition is not excluded, as the abolition of slavery was not excluded, if the gradual development of Christian principle should seem to demand it. Whether or not capital punishment ought to be abolished, is a question for jurists, publicists, and statesmen. The theologian, as such, has no decision to give either way. <a href="/commentaries/romans/13-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. he is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. God’s Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. servant διάκονός (diakonos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1249.htm">Strong's 1249: </a> Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor. for εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. your σοὶ (soi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. good. ἀγαθόν (agathon) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_18.htm">Strong's 18: </a> A primary word; 'good'. But δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. if ἐὰν (ean) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1437.htm">Strong's 1437: </a> If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc. you do ποιῇς (poiēs) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4160.htm">Strong's 4160: </a> (a) I make, manufacture, construct, (b) I do, act, cause. Apparently a prolonged form of an obsolete primary; to make or do. wrong, κακὸν (kakon) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2556.htm">Strong's 2556: </a> Bad, evil, in the widest sense. Apparently a primary word; worthless, i.e. depraved, or injurious. be afraid, φοβοῦ (phobou) Verb - Present Imperative Middle or Passive - 2nd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5399.htm">Strong's 5399: </a> From phobos; to frighten, i.e. to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e. Revere. for γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. he does not carry φορεῖ (phorei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5409.htm">Strong's 5409: </a> To carry, wear, bear constantly. From phoros; to have a burden, i.e. to wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment. the τὴν (tēn) Article - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. sword μάχαιραν (machairan) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3162.htm">Strong's 3162: </a> A sword. Probably feminine of a presumed derivative of mache; a knife, i.e. Dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment. in vain. εἰκῇ (eikē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_1500.htm">Strong's 1500: </a> Without a cause, purpose; purposelessly, in vain, for nothing. Probably from eiko; idly, i.e. Without reason. He is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. God’s Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. servant, διάκονός (diakonos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1249.htm">Strong's 1249: </a> Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor. an agent ἔκδικος (ekdikos) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1558.htm">Strong's 1558: </a> From ek and dike; carrying justice out, i.e. A punisher. of εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. retribution ὀργὴν (orgēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3709.htm">Strong's 3709: </a> From oregomai; properly, desire, i.e., violent passion (justifiable) abhorrence); by implication punishment. to the τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. wrongdoer. κακὸν (kakon) Adjective - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2556.htm">Strong's 2556: </a> Bad, evil, in the widest sense. Apparently a primary word; worthless, i.e. depraved, or injurious. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/romans/13-4.htm">Romans 13:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/romans/13-4.htm">NT Letters: Romans 13:4 For he is a servant of God (Rom. Ro) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/romans/13-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Romans 13:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Romans 13:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/romans/13-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Romans 13:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Romans 13:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>