What does Romans 13:1 mean?

Explanation

Romans 13:1 exhorts believers to submit to governing authorities, putting forward the proposition that all authority ultimately derives from God.

This implies that rebellion against the established government is equivalent to rebelling against an ordinance of God, as secular authorities hold their power by divine sanction.

This verse is often interpreted to mean that Christians should be model citizens, respecting the laws and rulers of the time, so long as such obedience doesn't lead one to sin or contravene God's commandments.

Historical Context

The verse is set within the context of Paul's Epistle to the Romans, believed to be authored around AD 57, during a period of relative stability in the Roman Empire under the reign of Nero.

This period was prior to the Neronian persecution of Christians.

The early Christians were often misunderstood and could be perceived as rebellious against the state, particularly because they did not partake in the worship of the Roman pantheon.

Paul's advice may thus be seen as practical counsel to avoid unnecessary persecution and to live peaceably within the Roman system.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives yield varying insights into Romans 13:1. The traditional view sees the verse as affirming the legitimacy and necessity of governmental authority.

However, this verse raises a number of questions, especially when the authority in question is tyrannical or oppressive.

Some theologians suggest that the divine sanction of authorities is not absolute; human rulers can forfeit their divine appointment through unjust or evil conduct.

Liberation theology might interpret this passage as not a call for blind obedience but rather a strategic exhortation for survival within oppressive regimes, while at the same time advocating for justice and the common good.

Practical Applications

Christians may apply Romans 13:1 in their daily lives by participating in civic duties, obeying laws, paying taxes, and showing respect for political officers.

The verse underlines the importance of social order and stability and can influence one's approach to civil disobedience.

When faced with laws or leaders who command actions that conflict with God’s law, Christians must wrestle with deciding when to submit and when to resist in order to remain faithful to a higher divine authority.

Cross-References

• 1 Peter 2:13-14 - "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well."
• Titus 3:1 - "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,"
• Daniel 2:21 - "And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding."
• Proverbs 8:15-16 - "By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.

By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, "higher powers" translates to "ὑπερεχούσαις ἐξουσίαις" (hyperechoúsais exousíais), with "ὑπερεχούσαις" (hyperechoúsais) coming from two words: "ὑπέρ" meaning "above" and "ἔχοντες" meaning "to have" or "to hold," thus suggesting a form of authority that is held over others. "ἐξουσίαις" (exousíais) refers to power or authority.

The overall implication is a recognition of established authorities that exist above or beyond the individual.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this Christian directive with other ancient cultures, one might look at the Divine Right of Kings, a concept found throughout different civilizations, such as in ancient Egypt, where Pharaohs were considered gods or chosen by the gods.

Confucianism also places a heavy emphasis on social order and respect for authority, though it doesn't necessarily see such authority as divinely sanctioned.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not lend itself directly to scientific analysis, modern sociology and political science recognize the necessity of governance structures for maintaining social order.

Science can study the effects of governance and authority on human behavior and societal well-being, but it typically refrains from ascribing divine origin to such structures.

Commentaries

Contemporary biblical scholars and theologians offer a range of interpretations on Romans 13:1.

Some, like John Stott and N.T.

Wright, suggest a balanced understanding where Christians are encouraged to be law-abiding citizens to the extent that the law reflects God’s moral order.

Others, like John Howard Yoder, emphasize the context within which Paul was writing, suggesting that any interpretation must account for the potentiality of state misuse of power.

Still, others argue for a more nuanced reading that recognizes an implicit resistance to unjust laws and authorities contained within the text.