 | Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. |
 | Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. |
 | Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. |
Commentary Paul recognized that government is ordained by God. Thus Christians should obey the law and pay their taxes out of a sense of service to God (vv. 1, 2). Paul viewed the government as God's instrument to prevent chaos in the world. Paul may have emphasized the need for civil obedience on the part of Christians to disassociate them completely from certain rebellious Jews. The Jews, particularly the Zealots, were noted for their insurrections. The government provided to individuals certain protections and services that they could not enjoy otherwise.
Thomas Nelson, I. (1997, c1995). Woman's study Bible . (Ro 13:1). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.