Good Government: Romans 13:3-4
“3) For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; 4) for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil.” Romans 13:3-4
When government is in step with God, it is not a cause of fear for good behavior. It’s purpose is to promote good and punish evil. Paul actually calls rulers “a minister of God for good.”
Government exists to hold evil in check. It’s purpose is not to step on freedom or oppress people. It should reward and praise good. It’s role is to administer justice. It bears the sword for this reason. Most scholars agree that this is a reference to capital punishment. Government is “an avenger of God to bring wrath on the one who practices evil.”
Those who rule should measure themselves by this text. God holds them accountable as His stewards of good. This text is written as much to the Governor as it is to the governed.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
