Romans 13:5

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Romans 13:5 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.

King James Version KJV

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

American Standard Version ASV

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

Bible in Basic English BBE

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

Free Bible Version FBV

So it's important to do as you're told, not just because of the threat of punishment, but because of what your conscience tells you.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Wherefore ye must bee subiect, not because of wrath only, but also for conscience sake.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

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

World English Bible WEB

Therefore you need to be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience’ sake.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

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

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

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

Translation for Translators T4T

So, it is necessary for you (pl) to be subject to officials, not only because they will punish you [MTY] if you disobey them, but also because you know that you should be subject to them

Plain English Version PEV

So you have to do what they say, so that they don’t punish you. And you know that it is the right thing to do, so you will not feel bad about it.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Romans 13:5

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Romans 13:5 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK διο αναγκη υποτασσεσθαι ου μονον δια την οργην αλλα και δια την συνειδησιν

διο dio G1352 therefore Conj

αναγκη anagkē G318 necessity Noun-NSF

υποτασσεσθαι hupotassō G5293 to subject Verb-PMN

ου ou G3756 no Particle-N

μονον monon G3440 only Adv

δια dia G1223 through/because of Prep

την ho G3588 the/this/who Art-ASF

οργην orgē G3709 wrath Noun-ASF

αλλα alla G235 but Conj

και kai G2532 and Conj

δια dia G1223 through/because of Prep

την ho G3588 the/this/who Art-ASF

συνειδησιν suneidēsis G4893 conscience Noun-ASF

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — Romans 13:5

διο dio G1352 "therefore" Conj

Therefore is a word that shows a consequence or a reason, like in Matthew 27:8 and Romans 1:24. It explains why something happens.

Definition: διό conjunct. for δι᾽ ὅ, wherefore, on which account: Mat.27:8, Luk.7:7, Act.15:19, Rom.1:24, al.; δ. καί, Luk.1:35, Act.10:29 24:26, Rom.4:22 15:22, 2Co.1:20 4:13 5:9, Php.2:9, Heb.11:12 13:12 (see Ellic. on Gal.4:31). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 50 NT verses. KJV: for which cause, therefore, wherefore See also: 1 Corinthians 12:3; Ephesians 4:8; 1 Peter 1:13.

αναγκη anagkē G318 "necessity" Noun-NSF

Necessity refers to a need or requirement that must be met, such as in Luke 14:18 and 1 Corinthians 7:37. It can also imply distress or constraint, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:7 and Hebrews 7:12.

Definition: ἀνάγκη, -ης, ἡ [in LXX chiefly for מָצוֹק, צַר ;] __1. necessity: ἔχειν ἀ-, with inf., to be compelled, Luk.14:18 23:17 (Rec., R, mg.), 1Co.7:37, Ju 3, Heb.7:27; ἐξ ἀ., κατ᾽ ἀ., of necessity, 2Co.9:7, Heb.7:12, Phm 14; ἀ. μοι ἐπίκειται, n. is laid on me, 1Co.9:16; with inf. (= ἀναγκαῖον ἐστι), Mat.18:7, Rom.13:5, Heb.9:16, 23 __2. force, violence, hence pain, distress (Diod., al.; LXX; see M, Th., 41; MM, VGT, see word; cf. θλίψις): Luk.21:23, 1Co.7:26, 1Th.3:7; pl. (see B1., § 32, 6; Swete, Mk., 153), ἐν ἀ., 2Co.6:4 12:10.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 18 NT verses. KJV: distress, must needs, (of) necessity(-sary), needeth, needful See also: 1 Corinthians 7:26; Hebrews 9:16; Hebrews 7:12.

υποτασσεσθαι hupotassō G5293 "to subject" Verb-PMN

This Greek word means to obey or put someone in charge, like in Romans 13:5 where we submit to authorities. It also appears in 1 Corinthians 15:27 and Ephesians 1:22, showing God's power over all things.

Definition: ὑπο-τάσσω [in LXX for דָבַר hi., דָּמַם, שׂוּם, שִׁית, etc. ;] __1. as a military term, to place or rank under (Polyb.). __2. to subject, put in subjection: 1Co.15:27, Php.3:21, Heb.2:5, 8; pass., Rom.8:20, 1Co.15:27-28, 1Pe.3:22, Eph.1:22. Mid., to subject oneself, obey: absol., Rom.13:5, 1Co.14:34; with dative of person(s), Luk.2:51 10:17, 20, Rom.8:7 10:3 13:1, 1Co.14:32 15:28 (ὑποταγήσεται; cf. M, Pr., 163), 1Co.16:16, Eph.5:21-22 (T, WH, txt., R, om.), Eph.5:24, Col.3:18, Tit.2:5, 9 3:1, Heb.12:9, 1Pe.2:18 3:1 3:5 5:5; imperat., Jas.4:7, 1Pe.2:13 5:5.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 32 NT verses. KJV: be under obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto See also: 1 Corinthians 14:32; Hebrews 2:5; 1 Peter 2:13.

ου ou G3756 "no" Particle-N

This is a strong 'no', used to deny something completely. It appears in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 13:29 and John 1:21. It is a negative answer to a question.

Definition: οὐ, before a vowel with smooth breathing οὐκ, before one with rough breathing οὐχ (but improperly οὐχ ἰδού, Act.2:7, WH, mg.; cf. WH, Intr., §409; M, Pr., 44, 244), [in LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,לֹא ;] neg. particle, not, no, used generally with indic, and for a denial of fact (cf . μή); __1. absol. (accented), οὔ, no: Mat.13:29 Jhn.1:21 21:5; οὒ οὕ, Mat.5:37 Jas.5:12. __2. Most frequently negativing a verb or other word, Mat.1:25 10:26, 38, Mrk.3:25 9:37, Jhn.8:29, Act.7:5, Rom.1:16, Php.3:3, al.; in litotes, οὐκ ὀλίγοι (i.e. very many), Act.17:4, al.; οὐκ ἄσημος, Act.21:39; πᾶς . . . οὐ, with verb, (like Heb. כֹּל . . . לֹא), no, none, Mat.24:22, Mrk.13:20, Luk.1:37, Eph.5:5, al.; in disjunctive statements, οὐκ . . . ἀλλά, Luk.8:52 Jhn.1:33 Rom.8:2o, al.; with 2 of person(s) fut. (like Heb. לֹא, with impf.), as emphatic prohibition, Mat.4:7, Luk.4:12, Rom.7:7, al. __3. With another negative, __(a) strengthening the negation: Mrk.5:37, Jhn.8:15 12:19, Act.8:39, al.; __(b) making an affirmative: Act.4:20, 1Co.12:15. __4. With other particles: οὐ μή (see: μή); οὐ μηκέτι, Mat.21:19; with μή interrog., Rom.10:18, 1Co.9:4, 5 11:22. __5. Interrogative, expecting an affirmative answer (Lat. nonne): Mat.6:26, Mrk.4:21, Luk.11:40, Jhn.4:35, Rom.9:21, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1410 NT verses. KJV: + long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but See also: 1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:32; 1 Peter 1:8.

μονον monon G3440 "only" Adv

This adverb means only, alone, or merely, often used to emphasize a single thing. For example, in Matthew 14:23, Jesus goes up a mountain alone to pray.

Definition: μόνον, see: μόνος. μόνος, -η, -ον, [in LXX chiefly for לְבַד ;] __1. adj., alone, solitary, forsaken: with verb., Mat.14:23, Mrk.6:47, Luk.9:36, al.; with pron., Mat.18:15, Mrk.9:2, al.; with subst., Mrk.9:8, Luk.4:8, al.; pleonast., οὐκ . . . εἰ μὴ μ., Mat.12:4, Luk.6:4, al.; attrib., only, (ὁ) μ. θεός, Jhn.5:44 17:3, Rom.16:27, 1Ti.1:17, Ju 25. __2. As adv., __(a) neut., (μόνον, alone, only: referring to verb or predic., Mat.9:21, Mrk.5:36, Jas.1:22, al. (see Bl., §44, 2); οὐ (μὴ) μ., Gal.4:18, Jas.1:22; οὐ μ. . . . ἀλλά (Bl, §77, 13.3), Act.19:26, 1Jn.5:6, al.; id. before καί (Bl., §81, 1.2), Rom.5:3 9:10, 2Co.8:19, al.; __(b) κατὰ μόνας, alone (Bl., §44, 1), Mrk.4:10, Luk.9:18. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 67 NT verses. KJV: alone, but, only See also: 1 Corinthians 7:39; Hebrews 12:26; 1 Peter 2:18.

δια dia G1223 "through/because of" Prep

Means through or because of, like in Matthew 2:12 where the wise men left by another route. It shows cause or occasion, as in 1 Corinthians 3:15, being saved through fire. It can also describe a state or condition, like in Romans.

Definition: διά (before a vowel δ᾽, exc. Rom.8:10, 2Co.5:7, and in (Proper name)s; Tdf., Pr., 94), prep. with genitive, accusative, as in cl.; __1. with genitive, through; __(i) of Place, after verbs of motion or action: Mat.2:12 12:43, Mrk.2:23, Luk.4:30, Jhn.4:4, 2Co.11:33, al.; σώζεσθαι (διας-) δ. πυρός, ὕδατος, 1Co.3:15, 1Pe.3:20; βλέπειν δ. ἐσόπτρου, 1Co.13:12; metaphorically, of a state or condition: Rom.14:20, 2Co.2:4 5:7, 10; δ. γράμματος, ἀκροβυστίας (Lft., Notes, 263, 279), Rom.2:27 4:11; δι ̓ὑπομενῆς, Rom.8:25. __(ii) Of Time; __(a) during which: Mat.26:61, Mrk.14:58, Luk.5:5; δ. παντὸς τοῦ ζῆν, Heb.2:15; δ. παντός (διαπαντός in Mrk.5:5, Luk.24:53), always, continually, Mat.18:10, Act.2:25" (LXX) 10:2 24:16, Rom.11:10" (LXX), 2Th.3:16, Heb.9:6 13:15. __(b) within which: Act.1:3; δ. νυκτός, Act.5:19 16:9 17:10 23:31; __(with) after which (Field, Notes, 20; Abbott, JG, 255f.): Mrk.2:1, Act.24:17, Gal.2:1. __(iii) Of the Means or Instrument; __(1) of the efficient cause (regarded also as the instrument): of God, Rom.11:36, 1Co.1:9, Gal.4:7, Heb.2:10 7:21; of Christ, Rom.1:8 5:1, 17, 1Co.15:21, 1Pe.4:11, al.; δ. τ. ὑμῶν δεήσεως, Rom.1:12, 2Co.1:4, Gal.4:23, al.; __(2) of the agent, instrument or means; __(a) with genitive of person(s), Mat.11:2, Luk.1:70, Jhn.1:17, Act.1:16, Rom.2:16, 1Co.1:21, Eph.1:5, Heb.2:14, Rev.1:1, al.; ὑπὸ τ. κυρίου δ. τ. προφήτου (δ. τ. κυρίου, 1Th.4:2 (M, Th., in l.); Lft., Rev., 121f.), Mat.1:22 2:15, Rom.1:2; δ. ἐπιστολῆς ὡς δ. ἡμῶν (Field, Notes, 202), 2Th.2:2; δ. Σ. (NTD, 22), 1Pe.5:12; __(b) with genitive of thing(s) (where often the simple dative is used in cl.; Jannaris, Gr., 375), Jhn.11:4, Act.5:12; δ. τ. πίστεως, Rom.3:30; δ. λόγου θεοῦ, 1Pe.1:23; δ. παραβολῆς, Luk.8:4; δουλεύειν δ. τ. ἀγάπης, Gal.5:13; δ. ἐπαγγελίας, Gal.3:18, __2. C. accusative; __(i) rarely, as with genitive, through (Hom), δ. μέσον Σαμαρίας (ICC, in l.; Bl., §42, 1; Robertson, Gr., 581), Luk.17:11. __(ii) by reason of, because of, for the sake of; __(a) with accusative of person(s) (M, Pr., 105), Mrk.2:27, Jhn.6:57 11:42, Rom.8:20; __(b) with accusative of thing(s), δ. φθόνον, Mat.27:18, Mrk.15:10; δ. φόβον, Jhn.7:13 20:19; δ. ἀγάπην, Eph.2:4; δ. τοῦτο, freq., for this cause, therefore, Mat.6:25, Mrk.6:14, Luk.11:49, Jhn.6:65, al.; id. before ὅτι, Jhn.5:16 10:17, al.; δ. τί, why, Mat.9:11, 14 Mrk.2:18, Jhn.7:45, al.; δ. τό, with inf., Mrk.5:4, Luk.9:7, Jas.4:2. __3. In composition, __(1) through, as in διαβαίνω; __(2) of separation, asunder, as in διασπάω; __(3) of distribution, abroad, as in διαγγέλλω; __(4) of transition, as διαλλάσσω; __(5) of "perfective" action (M, Pr., 112f., 115f.), as διαφύγω, διακαθαρίζω. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 603 NT verses. KJV: after, always, among, at, to avoid, because of (that), briefly, by, for (cause) … fore, from, in, by occasion of, of, by reason of, for sake, that, thereby, therefore, X though, through(-out), to, wherefore, with (-in) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 2 Corinthians 8:8; 1 Peter 1:3.

την ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-ASF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

οργην orgē G3709 "wrath" Noun-ASF

In the Bible, this word means God's strong anger or wrath towards sin, as seen in Romans 1:18 and Revelation 14:10. It's a desire for justice and a reaction against wrongdoing. This concept is also applied to human anger, like in Ephesians 4:31.

Definition: ὀργή, -ῆς, ἡ [in LXX chiefly for אַף, also for חָרוֹן, חֵמָה, קָצַף, etc. ;] __1 1, impulse, propensity, disposition. __2. anger, wrath; __(a) of men: Mrk.3:5, Eph.4:31, Col.3:8, 1Ti.2:8, Jas.1:19-20; __(b) of God; __α that reaction of the divine nature against sin which in anthropomorphic language is called anger: Rom.1:18 9:22 12:19, (ICC, in l), 1Th.1:10 2:16, Heb.3:11 4:3" (LXX) Rev.14:10 16:19 19:15; __β of the effect of God's anger: Mat.3:7, Luk.3:7 21:23, Jhn.3:36, Rom.2:5, 8 3:5 4:15 5:9 13:4-5 Eph.5:6, Col.3:6, 1Th.5:9, Jas.1:20, Rev.6:16-17 11:18; σκεύη ὀργῆς, Rom.9:22; τέκνα ὀργῆς, Eph.2:3.† SYN.: see: θυμός (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 34 NT verses. KJV: anger, indignation, vengeance, wrath See also: 1 Thessalonians 1:10; Matthew 3:7; Hebrews 3:11.

αλλα alla G235 "but" Conj

But is a strong opposing word, used in Matthew 5:15 and John 7:16. It shows contrast or surprise, like in the phrase 'but God' in Romans 3:31.

Definition: ἀλλά (ἀλλ᾽ usually bef. α and υ, often bef. ε and η, rarely bef. ο and ω, never bef. ι; Tdf., Pr., 93 f.; WH, App., 146), adversative particle, stronger than δέ; prop. neuter pl. of ἄλλος, used adverbially, with changed accent; hence prop. otherwise, on the other hand (cf. Rom.3:31); __1. opposing a previous negation, but: οὐ (μὴ) . . . ἀ., Mat.5:15, 17 Mrk.5:39, Jhn.7:16, al.; rhetorically subordinating but not entirely negativing what precedes, οὐ . . . ἀ., not so much . . . as, Mrk.9:37, Mat.10:20, Jhn.12:44, al.; with ellipse of the negation, Mat.11:7-9, Act.19:2, 1Co.3:6 6:11 7:7, 2Co.7:1, Gal.2:3, al.; in opposition to a foregoing pos. sentence, ἀ. οὐ, Mat.24:6, 1Co.10:23; οὐ μόνον . . . ἀ. καί, Jhn.5:18, Rom.1:32, al.; elliptically, after a negation, ἀ. ἵνα, Mrk.14:49, Jhn.1:8 9:3, al.; = εἰ μή (Bl., §77, 13; M, Pr., 241; but cf. WM, §iii, 10), Mat.20:23, Mrk.4:22. __2. Without previous negation, to express opposition, interruption, transition, etc., but: Jhn.16:20 12:27, Gal.2:14; before commands or requests, Act.10:20 26:16, Mat.9:18, Mrk.9:22, al.; to introduce an accessory idea, 2Co.7:11; in the apodosis after a condition or concession with εἰ, ἐάν, εἴπερ, yet, still, at least, Mrk.14:29, 1Co.9:2, 2Co.4:16, Col.2:5, al.; after μέν, Act.4:17, Rom.14:20, 1Co.14:17; giving emphasis to the following clause, ἀλλ᾽ ἔρχεται ὥρα, yea, etc., Jhn.16:2; so with neg., ἀλλ᾽ οὐδέ, nay, nor yet, Luk.23:15. __3. Joined with other particles (a practice which increases in late writers; Simcox, LNT, 166), ἀ. γε, yet at least, Luk.24:21, 1Co.9:2; ἄ ἤ., save only, except, Luk.12:51, 2Co.1:13; ἀ. μὲν οὖν, Php.3:8 (on this usage, see MM, VGT, see word). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 603 NT verses. KJV: and, but (even), howbeit, indeed, nay, nevertheless, no, notwithstanding, save, therefore, yea, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 Peter 1:15.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

δια dia G1223 "through/because of" Prep

την ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-ASF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

συνειδησιν suneidēsis G4893 "conscience" Noun-ASF

Conscience is a moral awareness that guides our actions, as seen in Romans 2:15 and 1 Corinthians 10:29. It's an inner sense of right and wrong. The Bible often mentions a clear or weak conscience.

Definition: συν-είδησις, -εως, ἡ (συνεῖδον), [in LXX: Ecc.10:20 (מַדָּע), Wis.17:11, Sir.42:18 א * ;] __1. consciousness: with genitive obj., Heb.10:2, 1Pe.2:19. __2. In ethical sense, innate discernment, self-judging consciousness, conscience (Stoics and late writers): Rom.2:15 9:1, 1Co.10:29, 2Co.1:12 4:2 5:11, 1Ti.4:2, Heb.9:14; σ. ἀγαθή, Act.23:1, 1Ti.1:5 1:19, 1Pe.3:16 3:21; ἀσθενής, 1Co.8:7 8:10; ἀσθενοῦσα, 1Co.8:12; ἀπρόσκοπος, Act.24:16; καθαρά, 1Ti.3:9, 2Ti.1:3; καλή, Heb.13:18; πονηρά, Heb.10:22; ὁ νοῦς καὶ ἡ σ., Tit.1:15; διὰ τὴν σ., Rom.13:5, 1Co.10:25 10:27-28; κατὰ σ., Heb.9:9; ὑπὸ (τῆς) σ., Jhn.8:1-59 [9] (Rec.), 1Co.10:29 (cf. Cremer, 233 ff.; ICC on Rom.2:15; DB, i, 468 ff.).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 30 NT verses. KJV: conscience See also: 1 Corinthians 8:7; 2 Corinthians 4:2; 1 Peter 2:19.

Study Notes — Romans 13:5

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Romans 13:5 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Romans 13:5
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Romans 13:5
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Romans 13:5
Trapp's Commentary on Romans 13:5
Ellicott's Commentary on Romans 13:5
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Romans 13:5
Cambridge Bible on Romans 13:5
Barnes' Notes on Romans 13:5
Whedon's Commentary on Romans 13:5
Sermons on Romans 13:5

Context — Submission to Authorities

3For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. 4For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer.

5Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.

6This is also why you pay taxes. For the authorities are God’s servants, who devote themselves to their work. 7Pay everyone what you owe him: taxes to whom taxes are due, revenue to whom revenue is due, respect to whom respect is due, honor to whom honor is due.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Ecclesiastes 8:2	Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God.
2	Acts 24:16	In this hope, I strive always to maintain a clear conscience before God and man.
3	1 Peter 2:19	For if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God, this is to be commended.
4	1 Peter 2:13–15	Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorance of foolish men.
5	Titus 3:1–2	Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work, to malign no one, and to be peaceable and gentle, showing full consideration to everyone.
6	1 Peter 3:16	keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.
7	Hebrews 13:18	Pray for us; we are convinced that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.
8	1 Samuel 24:5–6	Afterward, David’s conscience was stricken because he had cut off the corner of Saul’s robe. So he said to his men, “The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the LORD’s anointed. May I never lift my hand against him, since he is the LORD’s anointed.”

Romans 13:5 Summary

This verse, Romans 13:5, reminds us that we should submit to those in authority, not just because we're afraid of getting in trouble, but because it's the right thing to do, and it helps us have a clear conscience. This is because God has established authority for our good, as stated in Romans 13:4. By submitting to authority, we can live in peace and harmony, and demonstrate our trust in God's sovereignty, as expressed in verses like Proverbs 21:1 and Psalm 37:3-7. As we submit to authority, we can also remember to pray for those in power, asking God to guide and direct them, as encouraged in 1 Timothy 2:1-4.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Bible say we must submit to authority?

According to Romans 13:5, we must submit to authority not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience, recognizing that rulers are God's servants for our good, as stated in Romans 13:4.

Is submitting to authority the same as condoning wrongdoing by those in power?

No, submitting to authority does not mean we condone or support wrongdoing by those in power, but rather we recognize their God-given role and submit to their authority, as taught in Romans 13:1-7, and pray for their wisdom and integrity, as encouraged in 1 Timothy 2:1-4.

How does submitting to authority relate to our conscience?

Submitting to authority as a matter of conscience, as stated in Romans 13:5, means that we recognize the importance of obeying those in power, not just out of fear of punishment, but because it is the right thing to do, and it aligns with God's will, as expressed in verses like Matthew 22:21 and Romans 12:14.

What role does fear play in submitting to authority?

While fear of punishment can be a motivator for submitting to authority, Romans 13:5 emphasizes that our submission should also be motivated by a clear conscience, recognizing that God is the ultimate authority, as stated in Psalm 119:114 and Romans 11:36.

Reflection Questions

In what ways can I demonstrate submission to authority in my daily life, whether at work, in my community, or in my relationships?
How can I balance my desire to do what is right with the need to submit to authority, especially when those in power may not always act justly or wisely?
What role does my conscience play in guiding my decisions and actions when it comes to submitting to authority, and how can I ensure that my conscience is informed by God's Word?
In what ways can I pray for and support those in authority, recognizing their God-given role and the challenges they face, as encouraged in 1 Timothy 2:1-4?

Gill's Exposition on Romans 13:5

Wherefore ye must needs be subject,.... To the higher powers, to the civil magistrates; there is a necessity of it, because magistracy is God's ordinance, it is for the good of men; and such that

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Romans 13:5

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

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Romans 13:5

q.d. Seeing things are so as I have said; that magistracy is of God, that it is his ordinance, that it is for the benefit of mankind, and that it is armed with the sword; therefore there is a necessity of subjection, and that for a double reason: first, from fear of wrath, or punishment from the magistrate. Secondly, and more especially, from the obligation of conscience, because God hath so commanded; and to err in this particular, is to offend God, and to wound our own consciences: see .

Trapp's Commentary on Romans 13:5

5 Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. Ver. 5. But also for conscience sake] Good rulers we must obey as God; bad, for God. διατονθεον. (Basil.)

Ellicott's Commentary on Romans 13:5

(5) It follows, from this divine authority and title enjoyed by the magistrate, that he ought to be obeyed, not only from fear of the punishment that he is empowered to inflict, but also from the respect due to legitimate power. Of this respect conscience is the natural guardian.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Romans 13:5

Verse 5. Ye must needs be subject] αναγκη, There is a necessity that ye should be subject, not only for wrath, διατηνοργην, on account of the punishment which will be inflicted on evil doers, but also for conscience' sake; not only to avoid punishment, but also to preserve a clear conscience. For, as civil government is established in the order of God for the support, defence, and happiness of society, they who transgress its laws, not only expose themselves to the penalties assigned by the statutes, but also to guilt in their own consciences, because they sin against God. Here are two powerful motives to prevent the infraction of the laws and to enforce obedience. 1. The dread of punishment; this weighs with the ungodly. 2. The keeping of a good conscience, which weighs powerfully with every person who fears God. These two motives should be frequently urged both among professors and profane.

Cambridge Bible on Romans 13:5

5. Wherefore] Because of the ruler’s Divine credentials. The Christian is accordingly a good subject not only on account of the wrath, (so lit.; i.e. the ruler’s wrath in case of crime,) but also on account of the conscience, (so lit.; i.e. the Christian’s knowledge and sense of the ruler’s right to be angry).

Barnes' Notes on Romans 13:5

Wherefore - διό dio. The “reasons” why we should be subject, which the apostle had given, were two, That government was appointed by God. (2)That violation of the laws would necessarily expose to punishment.

Whedon's Commentary on Romans 13:5

5. For wrath… for conscience’ sake—The apostle by his wherefore draws the inference from the two previous verses that it is a matter of conscience that we entertain a salutary fear of the punitive power of the government.

Sermons on Romans 13:5

	Sermon	Description
	What Is Conscience by J. Edwin Orr	In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing that he is teaching rather than preaching due to his recent health issues. He mentions his gratitude for the extra years given to him
	Justification by Faith by Billy Graham	Greek Word Studies for Distress (318) explores the concept of anagke, referring to various forms of necessity, compulsion, and distress brought on by external conditions or moral d
	1 Peter 2:13 by John Gill	John Gill emphasizes the importance of submitting to civil authorities as outlined in 1 Peter 2:13, explaining that this submission is not to all individuals but specifically to th
	Prayer for Rulers. by Edward Payson	Edward Payson preaches on the importance of praying for those in authority, emphasizing the need to intercede for rulers and leaders as they face unique challenges and temptations
	The Principles by Which Jesus Lived by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline and doing our best in our Christian walk. He uses examples from the world, such as athletes and students, who pu
	The Life Jesus Lived by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of desiring to partake in God's nature, which is the greatest gift He can give. The speaker challenges the audience to examine
	Gaining and Maintaining a Clear Conscience by Tom Palmer	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience and being right with God and others. He encourages the audience to take a moment to reflect on th