What does Romans 13:3 mean?

Explanation

Romans 13:3 focuses on the relationship between individuals and governing authorities.

In this verse, the Apostle Paul explains that rulers and authorities are in place to discourage wrongdoing and encourage good behavior.

The verse suggests that if a person conducts themselves with integrity and in accordance with the law, they should not fear the government.

On the contrary, they will receive commendation.

Essentially, the verse conveys that there is a moral function to governance and authority: to praise righteous deeds and serve as a deterrent to evil actions.

Historical Context

Romans 13:3 is part of a larger passage (Romans 13:1-7) that addresses the Christian attitude towards secular authorities.

Written by Paul in the middle of the first century (around 57 A.D.) to followers in Rome, this epistle provided guidance on how Christians should live within a pagan, political environment, specifically within the Roman Empire.

During this period, Christians were often viewed with suspicion and faced persecution for their beliefs, which at times seemed at odds with state interests and pagan practices.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this passage has been understood in various ways.

Some interpret it as Paul's directive for Christians to be good citizens, respecting and honoring governmental authorities because these are established by God for social order.

Others suggest that it's to be read with nuance, recognizing that while order is important, the ultimate authority is God and not human rulers.

A more radical interpretation suggests that when the state's laws are unjust, Christians are called to a higher moral law (God's law) that can sometimes require civil disobedience.

There has been an ongoing theological debate about how Christians should engage with and respond to political authority, particularly when that authority acts counter to Christian principles.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 13:3 can guide individuals to contribution to the common good through lawful behavior.

It suggests that those who do good have nothing to fear from just authorities. For modern readers, it also implies participation in a lawful and just political system, supporting good governance, and being responsible citizens.

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,"
• Proverbs 24:21: "My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change:"

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek language include:

• "φόβος" (phobos): often translated as "fear," it can imply respect or reverence in this context.
• "ἀγαθός" (agathos): meaning "good," it denotes moral goodness and beneficial actions.
• "κακός" (kakos): meaning "evil" or "bad," usually referring to harmful or immoral actions.
• "ἐξουσία" (exousia): translated as "power" or "authority," implying the power to rule or govern.

These words form a contrast between the positive and negative behaviors that authorities are meant to promote or suppress.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this with other cultures and religions, similar concepts of law and order can be seen in many ancient societies.

For instance, the Code of Hammurabi also outlined a system where rulers were viewed as agents of order, responsible for setting laws that promoted welfare and punished wrongdoing.

In Confucianism, the concept of a just ruler who rewards good and punishes evil also prevails.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, sociological studies have shown that stable governance and the enforcement of laws are crucial for societal function.

The principle suggested by Romans 13:3 resonates with findings that laws which align with a moral code and social contracts tend to produce more harmonious and prosperous societies.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentators offer differing insights into Romans 13:3:

• John Calvin emphasizes the role of civil authorities as God's ministers to maintain order and praises just rulers.
• Matthew Henry interprets this verse as an encouragement for Christians to lead good lives as a testimony to the pagan world and thus avoid punishment.
• William Barclay suggests that government is a necessary part of God’s ordering of society and must be respected, but it does not have absolute power as obedience to God is paramount.

Each commentator's understanding this verse is shaped by their own historical context and theological perspective.