1 Let every soul be subject to the authorities that are above [him]. For there is no authority except from God; and those that exist are set up by God.
2 So that he that sets himself in opposition to the authority resists the ordinance of God; and they who [thus] resist shall bring sentence of guilt on themselves.
3 For rulers are not a terror to a good work, but to an evil [one]. Dost thou desire then not to be afraid of the authority? practise [what is] good, and thou shalt have praise from it;
4 for it is God's minister to thee for good. But if thou practisest evil, fear; for it bears not the sword in vain; for it is God's minister, an avenger for wrath to him that does evil.
5 Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also on account of conscience.
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