Devine Scripture

Romans 13:5

What does Romans 13:5 mean?

A plain-English look at Romans 13:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Romans 13:5 means

Paul draws a crucial conclusion: believers must be subject not only to avoid wrath—that is, the punishment rulers may lawfully inflict—but also for conscience’ sake. Conscience here means living with an inner awareness of God’s will. Christians obey civil authority as part of their worshipful integrity before the Lord, not merely to escape penalties. This lifts civic obedience from a grudging duty to a Godward act. When submission is rooted in conscience, it remains steady whether we are seen or unseen, rewarded or not. Our allegiance is to God first, and we honor Him by honoring the order He has established.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Wherefore ye must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Wherefore ye must needs be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

So put yourselves under the authority, not for fear of wrath, but because you have the knowledge of what is right.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only because of the wrath, but also because of the conscience,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Wherefore be subject of necessity: not only for wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Wherefore it is necessary to be subject, not only on account of wrath, but also on account of conscience.

Context

Verses 1–4 established the divine origin and purpose of government. Verse 5 turns from explanation to motivation. The believer’s submission must be inward as well as outward—guided by conscience, not merely by fear of the state’s sword. This prepares for the concrete example in verses 6–7: because rulers carry out God-ordained service, Christians should pay taxes and show respect. The flow moves from theological basis to moral motive to practical expression, drawing a straight line from God’s sovereignty to daily civic responsibilities.

v.4for he is a 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 a minister of God, an avenger for wrath to him that doeth evil.

v.5This passage

v.6For for this cause ye pay tribute also; for they are ministers of God’s service, attending continually upon this very thing.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Ecclesiastes 8:2

    I counsel thee, Keep the king’s command, and that in regard of the oath of God.

  • 1 Peter 2:13

    Be subject to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether to the king, as supreme;

  • 1 Samuel 24:5

    And it came to pass afterward, that David’s heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul’s skirt.

  • 1 Peter 3:16

    having a good conscience; that, wherein ye are spoken against, they may be put to shame who revile your good manner of life in Christ.

  • Acts 24:16

    Herein I also exercise myself to have a conscience void of offence toward God and men always.

  • 1 Peter 2:19

    For this is acceptable, if for conscience toward God a man endureth griefs, suffering wrongfully.

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