For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.
Romans 13:3-5 (NLT)
God places those he wants in positions of government to accomplish His greater purpose. Only those that do wrong need to fear punishment. In the same way we are subject to following God’s authority established for His kingdom, so through obedience, we worship Him.
