For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same.
For he is the minister of God to thee for good. 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 13:3,4.
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Romans 13:5
For this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Romans 13:6
Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due: custom to whom custom: fear to whom fear: honour to whom honour. Romans 13:7
The government is to maintain law and order. When it does not do that, it has failed. I feel that a Christian should be opposed to the breakdown of law and order. We are to respect our rulers that are enforcing the law. I have great respect for our army, although it is honeycombed with corruption. I have great respect for police officers, although I know they make mistakes.
Christians are to obey the law not only because we'll be judged and have to pay a fine if we don't, but obey for conscience sake.
Although we may resent the way our tax money is being used, we are to pay taxes anyway.
The word for minister is one from which we get our word liturgy. It is strictly religious and is the same word used of angels in Hebrews 1:14 where they are called ministering spirits. This means that the ruler occupies a divinely-appointed office. He has no religious function, of course, but he holds a God-appointed office. That makes me pay my taxes, although I resent doing so.
Although there may be unworthy men in the office, we are to respect the office. We are to show respect for authority. A Christian will be the best citizen although his citizenship is in heaven.
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