ROMANS 13:1-14 CHRISTIANS having become the subjects of a kingdom which is not of this world, might be led to suppose that they were released from the ties of obedience to human authorities, especially such as were not Christians.. Far different is the doctrine here taught by the Apostle. There are three good lessons taught us in this chapter, where the apostle enlarges more upon his precepts than he had done in the foregoing chapter, finding them more needful to be fully pressed. [8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. But for conscience' sake — Out of obedience to God. Being part of the institution "ordained of God," which is the state, they partake of the dignity and authority pertaining to it, and are entitled to obedience, respect, courtesy, honor, and the cooperation of all Christians, who, in the discharge of such obligations, are doing so "as unto the … For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Every soul: Thi… Commentary on Romans 13:8-14. All rights reserved. St. Paul, writing to the Romans, whose city was the seat of the empire, speaks largely of obedience to magistrates: and this was also, in effect, a public apology for the Christian religion. tribute--land tax. But it’s worth digging in. Please enter your email address associated with your Salem All-Pass account, then click Continue. Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.. They are also to stand aloof from all venturesome speculations and rash engagements, and whatever may expose them to the danger of not rendering to all their due. Our position is that Romans 12 and 13 must be taken together as a unit. It is summed up in this — So that if you was not thinking of it, yet if your heart was full of love, you would fulfil it. And yet the amazing thing that this passage declares is that men like that are, in some sense, servants of God. 4. he beareth not the sword in vain--that is, the symbol of the magistrate's authority to punish. Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Read Introduction to Romans . 7. We'll send you an email with steps on how to reset your password. Commentary on Romans 13:8-10 (Read Romans 13:8-10) Christians must avoid useless expense, and be careful not to contract any debts they have not the power to discharge. Romans 14:1-6 The Law of Liberty. There are two reasons why Christians should subject themselves to government:. Podcast Episodes Concerning Romans 13. He writes, “Pay to all what is due them — taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due” (Romans 13:7, … Continue reading "Commentary on Romans 13:8-14" I. I. and let us put on the armour of light--described at length in Ephesians 6:11-18 . Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by 14. [7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. He gave them many benefits (Romans 9:4-5). Romans 13:1-6 Subjection to magistrates enforced. [3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. [9] For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Romans 13:5: “Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.” Paul means that we should be subject to our government not only because we fear punishment if we break the law, but also because we fear God, who knows our hearts. [4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. St. Paul, writing to the Romans, whose city was the seat of the empire, speaks largely of obedience to magistrates: and this was also, in effect, a public apology for the Christian religion. [10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Tribute — Taxes on your persons or estates. Or Idi Amin? That it is high time to awake out of sleep — How beautifully is the metaphor carried on! [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. All Rights Reserved. 13. That is more readily acknowledged to be from God than these. The sword — The instrument of capital punishment, which God authorizes him to inflict. For this cause — Because they are the ministers (officers) of God for the public good. Next follow some general motives to the faithful discharge of all these duties. The word “therefore” draws a conclusion to the state as God’s minister demonstrating wrath against law-breakers.. you must be subject, not only because of wrath . Those who see in Romans 13:1-7 a divine approval for "the State" take it out of its Biblical context (which begins in Romans 12, the previous chapter, but also includes the teaching of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation). Hath fulfilled the whole law — Toward his neighbour. Final salvation, glory, is nearer to us now, than when we first believed - It is continually advancing, flying forward upon the swiftest wings of time. CHAPTER 13. For there is no power--"no authority" but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God--"have been ordained of God." THE CONTEXT Earlier, Paul admonished, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. One of the crucial issues before the church in America today is: Shall we be American with a pinch of religious flavoring? His personal profession of a new birth has been well publicized. From our duty to magistrates he passes on to general duties. That is more readily acknowledged to be from God than these. Scripture: Romans 13:11–14. 5. Our study in Romans has brought us to that famous passage in Chapter 13 that deals with the Christian and his relationship to the government. As it makes war directly against no specific forms of government, so it directly recommends none. The apostle does not say, Put on purity and sobriety, peacefulness and benevolence; but he says all this and a thousand times more at once, in saying, Put on Christ. and make no provision--"take no forethought." [11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Let every soul--every man of you be subject unto the higher powers--or, "submit himself to the authorities that are above him." 12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Biblical Commentary (Bible study) Romans 13:8-14 EXEGESIS: ROMANS 12-15. 5:17-19,21; Romans 13:9 Lev. While its holy and benign principles secure the ultimate abolition of all iniquitous government, the reverence which it teaches for magistracy, under whatever form, as a divine institution, secures the loyalty and peaceableness of its disciples, amid all the turbulence and distractions of civil society, and makes it the highest interest of all states to welcome it within their pale, as in this as well as every other sense--"the salt of the earth, the light of the world" ( Romans 13:1-5 ). A critical factor for biblical interpretation is context, context, context. Commentary on Matthew 18:15-20. SAME SUBJECT CONTINUED--POLITICAL AND SOCIAL RELATIONS--MOTIVES. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath--for fear of the magistrate's vengeance. Romans 14:13-23 How Our Attitude Spreads to Others. Romans 13:13. b. Commandment — Toward our neighbour; as there are many in the law. Chapter 13. Chapter 13. Matthew Henry :: Commentary on Romans 13 ← Back to Matthew Henry's Bio & Resources. for now is our salvation--rather, "the salvation," or simply "salvation." Thus, all that was said of policemen in Romans 13:1-5 is likewise applied here to all servants and officers of the secular state. a. Subject to the governing authorities: The connection between Romans 12 and Romans 13is clear. There is another fear which follows evil actions: they who do well are free from this. Salem Media Group. Ep 21: Romans 13 and Early Christian Theology of the State; Wouldest thou then not be afraid — There is one fear which precedes evil actions, and deters from them: this should always remain. But I wonder if you have ever thought of Leonid Brezhnev as a servant of God? This in a moral sense, Paul desires, should be the ruling principle of the Christian, who sees the day already dawning (Romans 13:12). Romans 13:1-14 . Romans 15:1-2 Please Others And Not Yourself. For this, &c.--better thus: "For the [commandments], Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not covet, and whatever other commandment [there may be], it is summed up," &c. (The clause, "Thou shalt not bear false witness," is wanting in all the most ancient manuscripts). As Robert Parham’s recent editorial, “Romans 13 Is Weak Proof-Text for Anti-Immigration Church Members,” illustrates, Romans 13 is often the go-to proof-text for urging compliance with and allegiance to government authority. to awake out of sleep--of stupid, fatal indifference to eternal things. Romans 13:1-7 Submit to Government. The day dawns when we receive faith, and then sleep gives place. The inalienable right of all subjects to endeavor to alter or improve the form of government under which they live is left untouched here. Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. This life, a night; the resurrection, the day; the gospel shining on the heart, the dawn of this day; we are to awake out of sleep; to rise up and throw away our night-clothes, fit only for darkness, and put on new; and, being soldiers, we are to arm, and prepare for fight, who are encompassed with so many enemies. [2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For he that loveth another — As he ought. Power, in the singular number, is the supreme authority; powers are they who are invested with it. A lesson of subjection to lawful authority (v. 1endash 6). Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. Nowhere is this point truer than Romans 13:1-7. for the flesh, to fulfil the lust thereof--"Direct none of your attention to the cravings of your corrupt nature, how you may provide for their gratification.". For until the law sin was in the world—that is during all the period from Adam "until the law" of Moses was given, God continued to treat men as sinners. The order of the commands is different in the Septuagint reading of Exodus 20:13-17. 2. September 7, 2008. Put ye on the Lord Jesus - This is in reference to what is said, Romans 13:13; : Let us put on decent garments - let us make a different profession, unite with other company, and maintain that profession by a suitable conduct. But since Christians were constantly charged with turning the world upside down, and since there certainly were elements enough in Christianity of moral and social revolution to give plausibility to the charge, and tempt noble spirits, crushed under misgovernment, to take redress into their own hands, it was of special importance that the pacific, submissive, loyal spirit of those Christians who resided at the great seat of political power, should furnish a visible refutation of this charge. SAME SUBJECT CONTINUED--POLITICAL AND SOCIAL RELATIONS--MOTIVES. Commentaries for Romans Chapter 13 The duty of subjection to governors. The apostle affirms it of both. εὐσχημόνως] becomingly, 1 Thessalonians 4:12; 1 Corinthians 7:35; 1 Corinthians 14:40. (Cranfield, C. E. B Exegetical Commentary on the Epistle to the Romans. And he still cares about them today (Romans 11:1). custom--mercantile tax. Romans 14:7-12 Alive or Dead it Must be For The Lord. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake.. 5 Therefore . There are three good lessons taught us in this chapter, where the apostle enlarges more upon his precepts than he had done in the foregoing chapter, finding them more needful to be fully pressed. But here is the rub: Romans […] To love one another — An eternal debt, which can never be sufficiently discharged; but yet if this be rightly performed, it discharges all the rest. In the *Old Testament, God chose the people from *Israel to be his special people (Amos 3:2). It is of Magistracy in general, considered as a divine ordinance, that this is spoken: and the statement applies equally to all forms of government, from an unchecked despotism--such as flourished when this was written, under the Emperor Nero--to a pure democracy. The apostle refers here only to the second table of the law, as love to our neighbor is what he is treating of. Romans 13:1-14. for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law--for the law itself is but love in manifold action, regarded as matter of duty. Let every soul--every man of you be subject unto the higher powers--or, "submit himself to the authorities that are above him." For rulers are not a terror to good works--"to the good work," as the true reading appears to be but to the evil. Exhortations to mutual love. A lesson of justice and love to our brethren (v. 7endash 10). The reference to “hope” in verse 12 leads to a prayer of hope (v. 13).In verse 13, Paul injected a prayer of benediction. In this brief but extremely rich passage, Paul tells us that as Christians we are all “morning people.” The time is just before dawn, the sky is brightening, the alarm is ringing, day is at hand. For there is no power--"no authority" but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God--"have been ordained of God.". All these are due to the supreme power. The apostle affirms it of both. This is why God warns us not to make provisions for the flesh. 10. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power--"So that he that setteth himself against the authority." put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ--in such wise that Christ only may be seen in you (see 2 Corinthians 3:3 , Galatians 3:27 , Ephesians 4:24 ). It is a strong and beautiful expression for the most intimate union with him, and being clothed with all the graces which were in him. They are all from God, who co… If the Christian is not to seek personal vengeance, it does not take away the government’s authority to punish wrongdoers. Then it is time to rise, to arm, to walk, to work, lest sleep steal upon us again. Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), Matthew Henry’s Bible Commentary (concise), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. I thi… Proud member ÷ROMANS 13:11-14. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, Part 2. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. 19:18; Romans 13:14 In contexts like this, the Greek word for flesh (sarx) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit. (4) In virtue of "the expulsive power of a new and more powerful affection," the great secret of persevering holiness in all manner of conversation will be found to be "Christ IN US, the hope of glory" ( Colossians 1:27 ), and Christ ON US, as the character in which alone we shall be able to shine before men ( 2 Corinthians 3:8 ) ( Romans 13:14 ). I think the issue is crucial because there are many in our churches (many of us) who have not seriously and earnestly asked themselves: Am I more American than I am Christian? not in chambering and wantonness--varied forms of impurity; the one pointing to definite acts, the other more general. Article Images Copyright © 2021 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. Adhesive Remover Brava Spray, Bryan Johnson Wife, Dunkin' Donuts Hiring Age, Minecraft Crimson Fungus, Food Network Old Cake Competition, Pasco County Map With Zip Codes, Affinity Hd Resource Pack, Vegetable Seed Packets For Sale, Jackson Falls Trail Map, " />

romans 13 commentary

Posted by on February 21, 2021

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ — Herein is contained the whole of our salvation. 1, 2. Putting on, or being clothed with Jesus Christ, signifies receiving and believing the Gospel; and consequently taking its maxims for the government of life, having the mind that was in … 11. (2) Christianity is the grand specific for the purification and elevation of all the social relations; inspiring a readiness to discharge all obligations, and most of all, implanting in its disciples that love which secures all men against injury from them, inasmuch as it is the fulfilling of the law ( Romans 13:6-10 ). The night--of evil is far spent, the day--of consummated triumph over it is at hand: let us therefore cast off--as a dress the works of darkness--all works holding of the kingdom and period of darkness, with which, as followers of the risen Saviour, our connection has been dissolved. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? Shall receive condemnation — Not only from the magistrate, but from God also. 9. Therefore love is the fulfilling of the law — For the same love which restrains from all evil, incites us to all good. Or even Adolph Hitler? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For rulers are — In the general, notwithstanding some particular exceptions. Scripture: Romans 13:11–14. (Romans 13 Commentary) Warren Wiersbe describes what it means to put on the Lord Jesus Christ. Let every soul be subject to the supreme powers— An admonition peculiarly needful for the Jews. When Jesus asked for a coin and said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s” (Mk 12:17), he separated church and state. Romans 13:11-14 Rioting, drunkenness, and other works of darkness must be put away, as much out of season under the gospel. 13, 14. But God also has a plan to benefit people from every nation. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. Romans 13:9 Exodus 20:13-15,17; Deut. Gospel. Romans 13:8-10 Love Your Neighbor. Explanation and Commentary of Romans 13:1. And that which remains between the present hour and eternity is comparatively but a moment. (Romans 13:9) The quoted words in verse 9 are the same as in the extant Septuagint text of Deuteronomy 5:17-21. God looked after them in the desert (Hosea 13:5). not in strife and envying--varied forms of that venomous feeling between man and man which reverses the law of love. For, for this cause pay ye--rather, "ye pay" tribute also--that is, "This is the reason why ye pay the contributions requisite for maintaining the civil government." 2. Copyright © 2021, Bible Study Tools. Churches are full of troublesome people. NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: ROMANS 13:11-14 11 Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Not only for fear of wrath — That is, punishment from man. 1. In Romans 13:11, manuscripts vary in reading either “you” or … And make not provision - To raise foolish desires, or, when they are raised already, to satisfy them. In the first part of Romans 13, Paul addresses what those in the Christian community owe the civil authorities. This chapter is one of those classic clobber passages, used to make sure we are all being obedient citizens, which historically has led Christians into all KINDS of problems: “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities...” (Romans 13:1) His fellow Bible-writer, Peter, wrote something very similar: Let every soul be subject to the supreme powers — An admonition peculiarly needful for the Jews. "(Commentary of the Epistle to the Romans) Cranfield - The existence of this hope in men is no human possibility but the creation of the Spirit of God. John Piper Aug 28, 2005 88 Shares God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in him Learn more about Desiring God but sin is not imputed where there is no law—"There must therefore have been a law during that period, because sin was then imputed"; as is now to be shown. 12. not in rioting and drunkenness--varied forms of intemperance; denoting revels in general, usually ending in intoxication. 6, 7. II. Take Romans 13. And that--rather, "And this [do]" knowing the time, that now it is high time--literally, "the hour has already come." Power, in the singular number, is the supreme authority; powers are they who are invested with it. nearer than when we--first believed--This is in the line of all our Lord's teaching, which represents the decisive day of Christ's second appearing as at hand, to keep believers ever in the attitude of wakeful expectancy, but without reference to the chronological nearness or distance of that event. [1] Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. Let us walk honestly--"becomingly," "seemingly" as in the day--"Men choose the night for their revels, but our night is past, for we are all the children of the light and of the day ( 1 Thessalonians 5:5 ): let us therefore only do what is fit to be exposed to the light of such a day." of And do this — Fulfil the law of love in all the instances above mentioned. Vol 1: Ro 1-8.; Volume 2: Romans 9-16) Aug 28, 2005. 8. III. Or: Shall we be Christ's people with a pinch of American flavoring? The grace of the gospel teaches us submission and quiet, where pride and the carnal mind only see causes for murmuring and discontent... View the entire commentary. First Reading. Commentary on Romans 13:11-14 View Bible Text . resisteth the ordinance of God; and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation--or, "condemnation," according to the old sense of that word; that is, not from the magistrate, but from God, whose authority in the magistrate's is resisted. John Piper Aug 14, 2005 131 Shares Sermon. They are all from God, who constituted all in general, and permits each in particular by his providence. 1, 2. Honour — Reverence. Virtually every serious commentary on the book of Romans has had to wrestle with the integrity of the last two chapters of the work, especially chapter 16.1 But, this is not the only place in the epistle where Pauline authenticity has been questioned. Footnotes. Owe no man anything, but to love one another--"Acquit yourselves of all obligations except love, which is a debt that must remain ever due" [HODGE]. but also for conscience' sake--from reverence for God's authority. Knowing the season — Full of grace, but hasting away. We grow on the basis of the food we eat. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Romans 13:7 We must render to all their dues, Romans 13:8-10 only love is a debt we must always owe, and virtually containeth the whole law. fear--reverence for superiors. (3) The rapid march of the kingdom of God, the advanced stage of it at which we have arrived, and the ever-nearing approach of the perfect day--nearer to every believer the longer he lives--should quicken all the children of light to redeem the time, and, seeing that they look for such things, to be diligent, that they may be found of Him in peace, without spot and blameless ( 2 Peter 3:14 ). The powers that be are appointed by God — It might be rendered, are subordinate to, or, orderly disposed under, God; implying, that they are God's deputies or vicegerents and consequently, their authority being, in effect, his, demands our conscientious obedience. 3, 4. Note, (1) How gloriously adapted is Christianity for human society in all conditions! [6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Whosoever resisteth the power — In any other manner than the laws of the community direct. Ὡς ἐν ἡμέρᾳ] as one walks in the day (when one avoids everything unbecoming). To put on the Lord Jesus Christ means to become more like Him, to receive by faith all that He is for our daily living. Romans 13:11-14 The Day When Christ Returns. It isn't very hard to think of President Jimmy Carter as a servant of God. But--to sum up all in one word. [5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing--"to this very thing.". Sorry for the clickbait title, because Romans 13 isn’t for dummies… it’s not an easy passage to interpret, and takes some effort to understand in context. © 2021 Christianity.com. honour--the respect due to persons of distinction. Love worketh no ill to his--or, "one's" neighbour; therefore, &c.--As love, from its very nature, studies and delights to please its objects, its very existence is an effectual security against our wilfully injuring him. Commentary on Ezekiel 33:7-11. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Render therefore to all their dues--From magistrates the apostle now comes to other officials, and from them to men related to us by whatever tie. > ROMANS 13:1-14 CHRISTIANS having become the subjects of a kingdom which is not of this world, might be led to suppose that they were released from the ties of obedience to human authorities, especially such as were not Christians.. Far different is the doctrine here taught by the Apostle. There are three good lessons taught us in this chapter, where the apostle enlarges more upon his precepts than he had done in the foregoing chapter, finding them more needful to be fully pressed. [8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. But for conscience' sake — Out of obedience to God. Being part of the institution "ordained of God," which is the state, they partake of the dignity and authority pertaining to it, and are entitled to obedience, respect, courtesy, honor, and the cooperation of all Christians, who, in the discharge of such obligations, are doing so "as unto the … For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Every soul: Thi… Commentary on Romans 13:8-14. All rights reserved. St. Paul, writing to the Romans, whose city was the seat of the empire, speaks largely of obedience to magistrates: and this was also, in effect, a public apology for the Christian religion. tribute--land tax. But it’s worth digging in. Please enter your email address associated with your Salem All-Pass account, then click Continue. Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. 13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.. They are also to stand aloof from all venturesome speculations and rash engagements, and whatever may expose them to the danger of not rendering to all their due. Our position is that Romans 12 and 13 must be taken together as a unit. It is summed up in this — So that if you was not thinking of it, yet if your heart was full of love, you would fulfil it. And yet the amazing thing that this passage declares is that men like that are, in some sense, servants of God. 4. he beareth not the sword in vain--that is, the symbol of the magistrate's authority to punish. Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. Read Introduction to Romans . 7. We'll send you an email with steps on how to reset your password. Commentary on Romans 13:8-10 (Read Romans 13:8-10) Christians must avoid useless expense, and be careful not to contract any debts they have not the power to discharge. Romans 14:1-6 The Law of Liberty. There are two reasons why Christians should subject themselves to government:. Podcast Episodes Concerning Romans 13. He writes, “Pay to all what is due them — taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due” (Romans 13:7, … Continue reading "Commentary on Romans 13:8-14" I. I. and let us put on the armour of light--described at length in Ephesians 6:11-18 . Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by 14. [7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. He gave them many benefits (Romans 9:4-5). Romans 13:1-6 Subjection to magistrates enforced. [3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. [9] For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Romans 13:5: “Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.” Paul means that we should be subject to our government not only because we fear punishment if we break the law, but also because we fear God, who knows our hearts. [4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. St. Paul, writing to the Romans, whose city was the seat of the empire, speaks largely of obedience to magistrates: and this was also, in effect, a public apology for the Christian religion. [10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. Tribute — Taxes on your persons or estates. Or Idi Amin? That it is high time to awake out of sleep — How beautifully is the metaphor carried on! [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. All Rights Reserved. 13. That is more readily acknowledged to be from God than these. The sword — The instrument of capital punishment, which God authorizes him to inflict. For this cause — Because they are the ministers (officers) of God for the public good. Next follow some general motives to the faithful discharge of all these duties. The word “therefore” draws a conclusion to the state as God’s minister demonstrating wrath against law-breakers.. you must be subject, not only because of wrath . Those who see in Romans 13:1-7 a divine approval for "the State" take it out of its Biblical context (which begins in Romans 12, the previous chapter, but also includes the teaching of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation). Hath fulfilled the whole law — Toward his neighbour. Final salvation, glory, is nearer to us now, than when we first believed - It is continually advancing, flying forward upon the swiftest wings of time. CHAPTER 13. For there is no power--"no authority" but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God--"have been ordained of God." THE CONTEXT Earlier, Paul admonished, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service. One of the crucial issues before the church in America today is: Shall we be American with a pinch of religious flavoring? His personal profession of a new birth has been well publicized. From our duty to magistrates he passes on to general duties. That is more readily acknowledged to be from God than these. Scripture: Romans 13:11–14. 5. Our study in Romans has brought us to that famous passage in Chapter 13 that deals with the Christian and his relationship to the government. As it makes war directly against no specific forms of government, so it directly recommends none. The apostle does not say, Put on purity and sobriety, peacefulness and benevolence; but he says all this and a thousand times more at once, in saying, Put on Christ. and make no provision--"take no forethought." [11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Let every soul--every man of you be subject unto the higher powers--or, "submit himself to the authorities that are above him." 12 The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Biblical Commentary (Bible study) Romans 13:8-14 EXEGESIS: ROMANS 12-15. 5:17-19,21; Romans 13:9 Lev. While its holy and benign principles secure the ultimate abolition of all iniquitous government, the reverence which it teaches for magistracy, under whatever form, as a divine institution, secures the loyalty and peaceableness of its disciples, amid all the turbulence and distractions of civil society, and makes it the highest interest of all states to welcome it within their pale, as in this as well as every other sense--"the salt of the earth, the light of the world" ( Romans 13:1-5 ). A critical factor for biblical interpretation is context, context, context. Commentary on Matthew 18:15-20. SAME SUBJECT CONTINUED--POLITICAL AND SOCIAL RELATIONS--MOTIVES. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath--for fear of the magistrate's vengeance. Romans 14:13-23 How Our Attitude Spreads to Others. Romans 13:13. b. Commandment — Toward our neighbour; as there are many in the law. Chapter 13. Chapter 13. Matthew Henry :: Commentary on Romans 13 ← Back to Matthew Henry's Bio & Resources. for now is our salvation--rather, "the salvation," or simply "salvation." Thus, all that was said of policemen in Romans 13:1-5 is likewise applied here to all servants and officers of the secular state. a. Subject to the governing authorities: The connection between Romans 12 and Romans 13is clear. There is another fear which follows evil actions: they who do well are free from this. Salem Media Group. Ep 21: Romans 13 and Early Christian Theology of the State; Wouldest thou then not be afraid — There is one fear which precedes evil actions, and deters from them: this should always remain. But I wonder if you have ever thought of Leonid Brezhnev as a servant of God? This in a moral sense, Paul desires, should be the ruling principle of the Christian, who sees the day already dawning (Romans 13:12). Romans 13:1-14 . Romans 15:1-2 Please Others And Not Yourself. For this, &c.--better thus: "For the [commandments], Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not covet, and whatever other commandment [there may be], it is summed up," &c. (The clause, "Thou shalt not bear false witness," is wanting in all the most ancient manuscripts). As Robert Parham’s recent editorial, “Romans 13 Is Weak Proof-Text for Anti-Immigration Church Members,” illustrates, Romans 13 is often the go-to proof-text for urging compliance with and allegiance to government authority. to awake out of sleep--of stupid, fatal indifference to eternal things. Romans 13:1-7 Submit to Government. The day dawns when we receive faith, and then sleep gives place. The inalienable right of all subjects to endeavor to alter or improve the form of government under which they live is left untouched here. Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. This life, a night; the resurrection, the day; the gospel shining on the heart, the dawn of this day; we are to awake out of sleep; to rise up and throw away our night-clothes, fit only for darkness, and put on new; and, being soldiers, we are to arm, and prepare for fight, who are encompassed with so many enemies. [2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For he that loveth another — As he ought. Power, in the singular number, is the supreme authority; powers are they who are invested with it. A lesson of subjection to lawful authority (v. 1endash 6). Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. Nowhere is this point truer than Romans 13:1-7. for the flesh, to fulfil the lust thereof--"Direct none of your attention to the cravings of your corrupt nature, how you may provide for their gratification.". For until the law sin was in the world—that is during all the period from Adam "until the law" of Moses was given, God continued to treat men as sinners. The order of the commands is different in the Septuagint reading of Exodus 20:13-17. 2. September 7, 2008. Put ye on the Lord Jesus - This is in reference to what is said, Romans 13:13; : Let us put on decent garments - let us make a different profession, unite with other company, and maintain that profession by a suitable conduct. But since Christians were constantly charged with turning the world upside down, and since there certainly were elements enough in Christianity of moral and social revolution to give plausibility to the charge, and tempt noble spirits, crushed under misgovernment, to take redress into their own hands, it was of special importance that the pacific, submissive, loyal spirit of those Christians who resided at the great seat of political power, should furnish a visible refutation of this charge. SAME SUBJECT CONTINUED--POLITICAL AND SOCIAL RELATIONS--MOTIVES. Commentaries for Romans Chapter 13 The duty of subjection to governors. The apostle affirms it of both. εὐσχημόνως] becomingly, 1 Thessalonians 4:12; 1 Corinthians 7:35; 1 Corinthians 14:40. (Cranfield, C. E. B Exegetical Commentary on the Epistle to the Romans. And he still cares about them today (Romans 11:1). custom--mercantile tax. Romans 14:7-12 Alive or Dead it Must be For The Lord. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake.. 5 Therefore . There are three good lessons taught us in this chapter, where the apostle enlarges more upon his precepts than he had done in the foregoing chapter, finding them more needful to be fully pressed. But here is the rub: Romans […] To love one another — An eternal debt, which can never be sufficiently discharged; but yet if this be rightly performed, it discharges all the rest. In the *Old Testament, God chose the people from *Israel to be his special people (Amos 3:2). It is of Magistracy in general, considered as a divine ordinance, that this is spoken: and the statement applies equally to all forms of government, from an unchecked despotism--such as flourished when this was written, under the Emperor Nero--to a pure democracy. The apostle refers here only to the second table of the law, as love to our neighbor is what he is treating of. Romans 13:1-14. for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law--for the law itself is but love in manifold action, regarded as matter of duty. Let every soul--every man of you be subject unto the higher powers--or, "submit himself to the authorities that are above him." For rulers are not a terror to good works--"to the good work," as the true reading appears to be but to the evil. Exhortations to mutual love. A lesson of justice and love to our brethren (v. 7endash 10). The reference to “hope” in verse 12 leads to a prayer of hope (v. 13).In verse 13, Paul injected a prayer of benediction. In this brief but extremely rich passage, Paul tells us that as Christians we are all “morning people.” The time is just before dawn, the sky is brightening, the alarm is ringing, day is at hand. For there is no power--"no authority" but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God--"have been ordained of God.". All these are due to the supreme power. The apostle affirms it of both. This is why God warns us not to make provisions for the flesh. 10. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power--"So that he that setteth himself against the authority." put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ--in such wise that Christ only may be seen in you (see 2 Corinthians 3:3 , Galatians 3:27 , Ephesians 4:24 ). It is a strong and beautiful expression for the most intimate union with him, and being clothed with all the graces which were in him. They are all from God, who co… If the Christian is not to seek personal vengeance, it does not take away the government’s authority to punish wrongdoers. Then it is time to rise, to arm, to walk, to work, lest sleep steal upon us again. Matthew Henry Bible Commentary (complete), Matthew Henry’s Bible Commentary (concise), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. I thi… Proud member ÷ROMANS 13:11-14. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, Part 2. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. 19:18; Romans 13:14 In contexts like this, the Greek word for flesh (sarx) refers to the sinful state of human beings, often presented as a power in opposition to the Spirit. (4) In virtue of "the expulsive power of a new and more powerful affection," the great secret of persevering holiness in all manner of conversation will be found to be "Christ IN US, the hope of glory" ( Colossians 1:27 ), and Christ ON US, as the character in which alone we shall be able to shine before men ( 2 Corinthians 3:8 ) ( Romans 13:14 ). I think the issue is crucial because there are many in our churches (many of us) who have not seriously and earnestly asked themselves: Am I more American than I am Christian? not in chambering and wantonness--varied forms of impurity; the one pointing to definite acts, the other more general. Article Images Copyright © 2021 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated.

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