Romans 13:7

KJV

¶ Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.

KJV (with Strong's)

Render {G591} therefore {G3767} to all {G3956} their dues {G3782}: tribute {G5411} to whom {G3588} tribute {G5411} is due; custom {G5056} to whom {G3588} custom {G5056}; fear {G5401} to whom {G3588} fear {G5401}; honour {G5092} to whom {G3588} honour {G5092}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Pay everyone what he is owed: if you owe the tax-collector, pay your taxes; if you owe the revenue-collector, pay revenue; if you owe someone respect, pay him respect; if you owe someone honor, pay him honor.

Berean Standard Bible

Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.

American Standard Version

Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 13:7 serves as a comprehensive summation of a Christian's civic and social responsibilities, urging believers to diligently fulfill all obligations—both financial and relational—to every individual and institution to whom they are due. This verse extends the principle of submission to governing authorities, previously discussed by Paul, into a broader ethical mandate for integrity, respect, and righteous conduct in all spheres of life, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel through obedient living.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans 13:7 concludes Paul's profound exhortation on the Christian's relationship with governing authorities, which begins in [Romans 13:1](/romans/13-1 "Romans 13:1 - Submission to Governing Authorities"). The preceding verses establish that all authority is ordained by God, and rulers serve as "ministers of God" to maintain order, punish evil, and commend good. Paul argues that submission is not merely for fear of punishment but also for conscience' sake, directly leading to the practical implications of paying taxes and fulfilling duties. Verse 7 acts as a capstone, broadening the scope from just governmental obligations to a universal principle of rendering what is rightfully owed to *all* people, whether in financial terms (tribute, custom) or relational terms (fear, honor).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Roman society, under imperial rule, had a complex and often oppressive taxation system. Direct taxes (like the *tributum soli* on land or *tributum capitis* on persons) and indirect taxes (such as customs duties, tolls, and market taxes) were common. Paul's audience in Rome would have been intimately familiar with these levies. Furthermore, Roman society was highly stratified, with clear expectations of deference and honor shown to those in positions of power, from emperors and magistrates to masters and elders. Christians, often viewed with suspicion for their monotheism and refusal to participate in the imperial cult, needed clear guidance on how to navigate their civic duties while maintaining their distinct identity as followers of Christ. Paul's instruction here counters any potential revolutionary or anarchic tendencies, advocating for responsible citizenship within the existing societal framework.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Romans and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of **Civic Responsibility**, emphasizing that believers are to be exemplary citizens, fulfilling legal and societal duties without evasion, thereby contributing to the common welfare. It also highlights **Respect for Authority**, not just governmental but any legitimate authority, as an extension of honoring God who ordains such structures. This aligns with the broader theme of **Love as the Fulfillment of the Law**, as seen in [Romans 13:8-10](/romans/13-8-10 "Romans 13:8-10 - Love Fulfills the Law"), where Paul argues that loving one's neighbor inherently includes fulfilling obligations and not causing harm. Finally, it speaks to the theme of **Christian Witness**, demonstrating that by diligently fulfilling these duties, believers live out their faith in a way that is commendable and distinguishes them as people of integrity in a fallen world, echoing the call to live honorably among the Gentiles in [1 Peter 2:12](/1_peter/2-12 "1 Peter 2:12 - Living Honorably Among Gentiles").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Render (Greek, _apodídōmi'_):** This verb signifies "to give back," "to pay back," or "to fulfill an obligation." It implies that the actions commanded are not voluntary contributions or charitable acts, but rather the discharge of debts or duties that are rightfully owed. The word conveys the idea of returning something that is due, emphasizing the justice and integrity inherent in fulfilling one's responsibilities.
* **Tribute (Greek, _phóros'_):** Refers specifically to a direct tax, typically an individual assessment levied on persons (like a poll tax) or property (like a land tax). This distinguishes it from other forms of taxation and highlights the personal and unavoidable nature of this financial obligation. It is a burden (a "load") that is borne by individuals or households as a direct contribution to the governing authority.
* **Fear (Greek, _phóbos'_):** While literally meaning "alarm" or "fright," in this context, "fear" does not denote terror or dread but rather a profound, respectful awe or reverence. It signifies the appropriate deference and solemn regard due to those in positions of authority, recognizing their divinely appointed role and the power they wield, rather than a servile or cowering fear.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Render therefore to all their dues":** This opening clause serves as the overarching command, linking back to the preceding discussion on submission to authorities. "Therefore" (G3767, _oûn'_) indicates a logical conclusion. The command is to "give back" or "pay what is owed" (G591, _apodídōmi'_) not just to authorities, but "to all" (G3956, _pâs'_) people, whatever is "due" (G3782, _opheilḗ'_). This establishes a universal principle of ethical obligation and integrity in all relationships, extending beyond just the government.
* **"tribute to whom tribute [is due]":** This specifies the first category of "dues": financial obligations in the form of direct taxes. It reiterates the command to pay the specific "tribute" (G5411, _phóros'_) owed to those who are authorized to collect it, directly addressing the practical aspect of civic responsibility.
* **"custom to whom custom":** This clause specifies the second category of financial dues: indirect taxes, duties, or tolls (G5056, _télos'_). These were typically collected on goods, imports, exports, or travel. The repetition of the structure emphasizes the comprehensive nature of financial obligations—both direct and indirect taxes must be paid.
* **"fear to whom fear":** Shifting from financial to relational dues, this command calls for the appropriate "fear" (G5401, _phóbos'_) or respectful awe to be shown to those who are due such reverence. This applies particularly to those in positions of power or authority whose office commands a certain level of respect and solemn regard.
* **"honour to whom honour":** The final clause specifies the last category of relational dues: "honour" (G5092, _timḗ'_), which denotes esteem, value, dignity, or high regard. This is to be given to those who, by virtue of their position, character, or contribution, are worthy of such esteem. This encompasses a broader range of relationships, from elders and parents to respected leaders and benefactors.

#### Literary Devices
Romans 13:7 employs several powerful literary devices that enhance its clarity and impact. The most prominent is **Anaphora**, the repetition of the phrase "to whom" (Greek: _hō_) at the beginning of successive clauses ("tribute to whom tribute," "custom to whom custom," "fear to whom fear," "honour to whom honour"). This repetitive structure creates a strong rhythmic emphasis, underscoring the comprehensive and categorical nature of the command. Closely related is **Parallelism**, where the clauses are structurally balanced and correspond in meaning, creating a sense of completeness and order. Each "due" is paired with its rightful recipient, reinforcing the idea that specific obligations are tied to specific individuals or roles. Furthermore, the verse uses a form of **Merism**, where two opposing or complementary parts represent the whole. By listing both financial obligations ("tribute," "custom") and relational obligations ("fear," "honour"), Paul covers the entire spectrum of a Christian's duties to society, implying that all forms of "dues" must be rendered.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 13:7 articulates a profound theological principle: that fulfilling one's civic and social obligations is not merely a matter of legal compliance but an act of obedience to God. Since all authority is ultimately derived from God, honoring human authorities, paying taxes, and showing due respect become expressions of one's reverence for the divine order. This command is rooted in the belief that God uses earthly structures, even imperfect ones, to maintain order and restrain evil, thereby creating an environment where the gospel can flourish. By faithfully rendering what is due, believers demonstrate the transformative power of their faith, living out the love for neighbor that is the fulfillment of the law, and presenting a compelling witness to the world of a faith that is both heavenly-minded and earthly-good.

* [Matthew 22:21](/matthew/22-21 "Matthew 22:21 - Render to Caesar")
* [1 Peter 2:17](/1_peter/2-17 "1 Peter 2:17 - Honor All People")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Whatever is True, Honorable, Just")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 13:7 provides a timeless and practical directive for how believers should engage with the world around them. It calls us to be exemplary citizens, not just in word, but in deed. This means a commitment to financial integrity, paying taxes and fulfilling contracts honestly and without evasion, recognizing that these are not optional contributions but duties owed. It also demands a posture of respect and honor towards all people, especially those in authority, regardless of our personal opinions about them or their policies. While we are called to speak truth to power and advocate for justice, this must always be done with a foundational respect for the office and the individual. Ultimately, living out this verse means embodying Christian integrity in every interaction, demonstrating that our faith makes us better neighbors, more responsible citizens, and more trustworthy individuals, reflecting the character of Christ in all our dealings.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life might you be neglecting to "render what is due," whether financially or relationally?**
* **How does your attitude towards paying taxes or showing respect to authorities reflect your understanding of God's sovereignty?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to demonstrate greater integrity and honor in your interactions with others, particularly those you find challenging to respect?**
* **How does fulfilling your civic duties serve as a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel in your life?**

### FAQ

**Does Romans 13:7 mean Christians must always obey governing authorities without question, even if they are corrupt or unjust?**

Answer: Romans 13:7, in conjunction with the preceding verses, calls for submission and the rendering of what is due to authorities. However, this submission is not absolute or unconditional. The primary allegiance of a Christian is always to God. When human laws or commands directly contradict God's revealed will (as seen in [Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Obey God Rather Than Men")), believers are obligated to obey God rather than men. Paul's command here assumes that authorities generally fulfill their God-given role of maintaining order and punishing evil. While we are to pay taxes and show respect, this does not preclude prophetic critique, peaceful protest, or advocating for justice within the legal framework, especially when authorities fail to uphold their divine mandate or actively promote unrighteousness. The "fear" and "honor" are for the office and the principle of order, not necessarily for the personal character or every directive of the officeholder.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 13:7, with its call to render all dues—tribute, custom, fear, and honor—finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in Jesus Christ. Our Lord Himself lived a life of perfect submission to the Father's will and, remarkably, to earthly authorities, even when they were unjust. He paid the temple tax, instructing Peter to "render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's" ([Matthew 22:21](/matthew/22-21 "Matthew 22:21 - Render to Caesar")), thereby demonstrating that faithful citizenship in God's kingdom does not negate responsible engagement with earthly powers. Christ perfectly embodied the principle of giving "honor to whom honor" is due, even as He challenged the corrupt systems of His day with divine authority. His life teaches us that true submission is not weakness but a powerful act of obedience that ultimately points to the supreme authority of God. As believers, we are called to follow His example, living as citizens of heaven (as described in [Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")) while faithfully and honorably fulfilling our earthly obligations, thereby reflecting the righteousness and love of Christ to a watching world and anticipating the day when all authority will be perfectly submitted to the [King of kings and Lord of lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Peter 2:17

Honour all [men]. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

1 Peter 2:18

Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.

Luke 20:25

And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things which be God's.

Matthew 17:25

He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?

Proverbs 24:21

¶ My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: [and] meddle not with them that are given to change:

1 Timothy 5:17

¶ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Matthew 22:21

They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.