Romans / 13

  • Augustine

    Romans 13:13–14

    Augustine said, “Oh Lord, thou hast made us for thyself and our hearts are restless until they rest in thee.” Augustine’s life is a good example of the truth of this statement. Only Jesus can give us rest. If ...Read More

  • Civil Obedience

    Romans 13:1–2

    Some of the laws and regulations in your country today may seem unnecessary. Nevertheless, in obedience to Scripture we must obey even these unless they lead us to sin. We should not be known as those who try to find ...Read More

  • Fulfiling the Law

    Romans 13:8–10

    Matthew Henry comments on love, saying “more is implied than is expressed; it not only does no harm, but it does all the good that may be.” The kind of love that fulfills the Law is active and not just ...Read More

  • Submitting to Earthly Authorities

    Romans 13:1–7

    Those who are under the authority of others are not allowed to wait for perfect leadership before they honor their supervisors, parents, church elders, and other leaders. Insofar as our leaders do not command us to do something God forbids ...Read More

  • The Sword and the Keys

    Romans 13:3–7

    Chapter 23 of the Westminster Confession of Faith is an excellent summary of the biblical teaching on the relationship between the church and the state. According to the confession, Christians may lawfully engage the government and serve in its various ...Read More

  • When to War?

    Romans 13:1–7

    Just War theory tells us the government is not supreme. We cannot defend our participation in an unjust war simply by saying, “I was only doing my duty to the government.” We are never allowed to say, “My country, right ...Read More