ROMANS Study Guide

to those who do evil. Do well and you will receive praise or

honor from the same authorities. (vss.3-4)

1) Paul is aware of the Roman governments problems but is

speaking of the day to day obeying of local law. (1Peter 2:13-17)

2) Christianity does allow for peaceful civil disobedience when

man’s laws contradict God’s laws. Obviously, we can have

governing authorities that violate or persecute what is good and

right. At those times, we must then flee or endure under wrong

treatment and practice civil disobedience. Examples of this …

Acts 4:17-21, Heb.10:32-34; 13:3; 1Thess.3:4.

3) God uses the civil authorities as his disciplining tool on

earth. they have the power to bring his punishment upon

the wicked. Vs.4

a. We are not to avenge ourselves personally (Rom.12:19) b. But corporately God uses his authority to bring justice

d. We are to submit not only out of fear but for conscience’s sake (what

you know is right in your heart before God) vs.5

1) Sinful man works from fear 2) Our motive as believer should be “as unto the Lord.”

e. For this reason, pay “tribute” or “taxes” to support them in this

continuous work for God as His servants …. these things are

rightfully owed to these officials.

1) Taxes to those you owe taxes to 2) Revenue to who you owe revenue to 3) Respect to who you owe respect to because of their position. 4) Honor to whom you owe honor to because of their position.