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Priscilla: Romans 13:1-7
Submission to the Authorities

1 Let every soul be subject to higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, but the existing authorities have been ordained by God.

2 So that the one resisting authority has opposed the ordinance of God, and the ones opposing will receive judgment to themselves.

3 For the rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the bad. And do you desire not to fear the authority? Do the good, and you will have praise from it;

4 for it is a servant of God to you for the good. But if you practice evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword in vain; for it is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to the one practicing bad things.

5 Because of this, it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also on account of conscience.

6 For on this account you also pay taxes, for they are ministers of God, always giving attention to this very thing.

7 Then give to all their dues: to the one due tax, the tax; to the one due tribute, the tribute; to the one due fear, the fear; to the one due honor, the honor.

[Literal Translation of the Holy Bible]

Dear God, my Beloved Father, today I offer You my reflections on the Word of God in Romans 13:1-7 regarding submission to the authorities.

Dear God, I understand that verses 1 and 2 mean that Your commandment is for everyone, regardless of whether they believe in You or not, to obey the authorities in the place where they live. All authority comes from You, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by You. Therefore, those who refuse to obey the law of the land are refusing to obey You, and they will be punished accordingly by both the authorities and You.

Dear God, I understand that verses 3 and 4 mean that it is the duty of everyone to obey those who are in positions of authority above them, for they are Your servants appointed to protect the good and to punish the evil. Therefore, those who do good should not fear the authorities, but only those who do evil and break the law.

Dear God, I understand that verse 5 means that our obedience to the authorities must come from the heart, as our conscience tells us that it is right to do what is good for others and ourselves. However, as Your people, we cannot obey governments that are unjust and prohibit us from worshiping You or preaching Your Gospel. This would be in direct conflict with Your commandments and laws. You, Father, are the Creator of all things, the Giver of life, and You have authority over all governments. Therefore, You require us to honor and worship You, to proclaim the death of Christ for the salvation of all so that they may know the truth. This is righteousness in Your sight, and it is not the sin of disobedience to the authorities.

Dear God, I understand verses 6 and 7 to mean that as citizens of a nation, we have a duty to pay taxes to the government. We must contribute our share of taxes to support the needs of the community, such as security, infrastructure, and other public services, which benefit everyone. A true child of God cannot evade or cheat on taxes, for this is an evil act that violates Your teachings and disobeys the authorities.

Thank You, God, for sanctifying me with Your Holy Word and granting me the wisdom to follow Your truth. Amen.

In the grace of Jesus Christ, my Lord.

Priscilla Christian Huynh
04/07/2023