What Does the Bible Say About Government and Authority — In Biblical Context
The Bible teaches that God establishes governing authorities, calls believers to submit to them, but also recognizes that God's authority is supreme when they conflict.
The Bible teaches that God establishes governing authorities, calls believers to submit to them, but also recognizes that God's authority is supreme when they conflict.
"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." — Romans 13:1 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Romans 13:1-7 teaches that governing authorities are 'ordained of God' and that resisting authority means resisting God's ordinance. Paul instructs paying taxes, giving honor, and submitting to rulers. Peter agrees: 'Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake' (1 Peter 2:13). However, when government commands what God forbids or forbids what God commands, believers must obey God: 'We ought to obey God rather than men' (Acts 5:29). Daniel defied the king's decree against prayer. The Hebrew midwives defied Pharaoh's command to kill babies. Jesus distinguished between duties to God and Caesar (Matthew 22:21). Believers are called to pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2), be good citizens, seek the welfare of their communities (Jeremiah 29:7), while maintaining ultimate allegiance to God's kingdom.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Romans 13:1, sits inside Romans 13. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God."
Supporting Passages
"Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men."
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority."
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