Romans 13:3

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

For {G1063} rulers {G758} are {G1526} not {G3756} a terror {G5401} to good {G18} works {G2041}, but {G235} to the evil {G2556}. Wilt thou {G2309} then {G1161} not {G3361} be afraid {G5399} of the power {G1849}? do {G4160} that which is good {G18}, and {G2532} thou shalt have {G2192} praise {G1868} of {G1537} the same {G846}:

For rulers are no terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you like to be unafraid of the person in authority? Then simply do what is good, and you will win his approval;

For 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.

For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. And wouldest thou have no fear of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise from the same:

Romans 13:3 continues Paul's discourse on the Christian's relationship with governing authorities, building upon the foundational principle of submission established in Romans 13:1-2.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section (Romans 13:1-7) where the Apostle Paul addresses the early Christian community in Rome regarding their civic duties and responsibilities under the Roman Empire. At a time when Christians might have been tempted to resist pagan rule, Paul emphasizes the divine institution of government. Here, he clarifies the purpose and function of these earthly powers: they are not meant to oppress those who do good, but rather to bring justice against evildoers. This teaching provided a crucial framework for believers navigating a complex political landscape.

Key Themes

  • The Purpose of Government: The primary role of rulers, as divinely ordained, is to maintain order by punishing evil and commending good. They act as God's ministers for justice.
  • Fear of Punishment vs. Expectation of Praise: The verse directly addresses the fear associated with authority. It posits that this fear is unwarranted for those who live righteously. Instead, good conduct leads to commendation from the authorities.
  • Good Works: Emphasizes the importance of living a life characterized by good deeds, which aligns with God's will and brings positive recognition from secular powers. This concept of doing good works is a recurring theme in Paul's epistles.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "terror" is phobos (φόβος), which means fear, dread, or alarm. Here, it refers to the fear of punishment that rulers inflict.
  • "Power" translates from exousia (ἐξουσία), signifying authority, jurisdiction, or the right to act. It underscores the legitimate authority granted to rulers.
  • "Praise" comes from epainos (ἔπαινος), meaning commendation, approval, or applause. It highlights the positive recognition that comes from living righteously under the law.

Practical Application

Romans 13:3 provides enduring principles for Christian citizenship. It encourages believers to be exemplary citizens, not out of blind obedience, but because doing so aligns with God's design for order and justice. When individuals and communities uphold what is good, they generally find favor with governing authorities and avoid unnecessary conflict. This verse reminds us that our obedience to the law, when it does not conflict with God's higher law, is a testimony to our faith and can even lead to positive societal outcomes. It calls us to live in a way that gives no cause for legitimate governmental intervention or punishment, but rather invites commendation.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ecclesiastes 10:4

    ¶ If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences.

  • Ecclesiastes 10:6

    Folly is set in great dignity, and the rich sit in low place.

  • Jeremiah 22:15

    Shalt thou reign, because thou closest [thyself] in cedar? did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, [and] then [it was] well with him?

  • Jeremiah 22:18

    Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah; They shall not lament for him, [saying], Ah my brother! or, Ah sister! they shall not lament for him, [saying], Ah lord! or, Ah his glory!

  • Deuteronomy 25:1

    ¶ If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that [the judges] may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked.

  • Proverbs 20:2

    ¶ The fear of a king [is] as the roaring of a lion: [whoso] provoketh him to anger sinneth [against] his own soul.

  • Proverbs 14:35

    ¶ The king's favour [is] toward a wise servant: but his wrath is [against] him that causeth shame.
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