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.
What does Romans 13:4 mean?
The grace of the gospel teaches us submission and quiet, where pride and the carnal mind only see causes for murmuring and discontent.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside Romans 13:2-6 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Romans 13:4
The minister of God - The "servant" of God he is appointed by God to do his will, and to execute his purposes. "To thee." For your benefit. For good - That is, to protect you in your rights; to vindicate your name, person, or property; and to guard your liberty, and secure to you the results of your industry. The magistrate is not appointed directly to "reward" people, but they "practically" furnish a reward by protecting and defending them, and securing to them the interests of justice. If thou do that ... - That is, if any citizen should do evil. Be afraid - Fear the just vengeance of the laws.
Key words
- minister
-
For he is the minister of God to thee for good,.
- good
-
For he is the minister of God to thee for good,.
Context in Romans 13
Show chapter context
Romans 13 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as Israel, mercy, and transformed life. Romans is Paul’s fullest sustained exposition of sin, grace, righteousness, faith, Israel, the Spirit, and transformed life in Christ. Read this chapter with the wider themes of justification, grace, and faith in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
Explore by topic
Passages on trusting God, receiving Christ, persevering without sight, and the relation between faith and lived obedience.
Bible verses about anxiety and fear
Verses for readers searching for biblical language about fear, worry, troubled thoughts, and the call to trust God under pressure.
Key passages on God's unmerited favour, the grace of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, and how grace transforms the way believers live.
Passages on lowliness, modesty, the contrast between pride and humility, and the way God exalts those who humble themselves.