What does Romans 13:5 mean?

Explanation

Romans 13:5 speaks to the concept of obeying governing authorities not just because of fear of punishment (wrath) but also because of a moral obligation (conscience).

This verse is part of a larger passage (Romans 13:1-7) that discusses the Christian's relationship with government and authority. The apostle Paul, who is traditionally attributed to having written the Letter to the Romans, suggests that civil obedience is part of leading a Christian life.

Historical Context

Romans was written around 57 A.D., during the reign of Emperor Nero in Rome.

At this time, Christians were a growing yet minority group within the Roman Empire, and their relationship with Roman authority was complex.

They were often misunderstood and at times faced significant persecution.

Paul's writings in this chapter may be addressing confusion among the early Christians regarding how to act under a pagan government that did not always align with their beliefs.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 13:5 has been interpreted in various ways.

Some see it as an imperative that Christians should always submit to government authority, seeing the government as an institution ordained by God. Others understand it to mean that Christians should obey laws as long as they do not contradict God's laws.

This verse emphasizes the internal motivation (conscience) in addition to external motivation (fear of reprisal) for obeying the law.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 13:5 suggests that individuals should obey laws not merely out of fear of punishment but out of a sense of ethical duty.

For modern Christians, this principle could be applied in everyday decisions, such as obeying traffic laws, paying taxes, and generally upholding the laws of the land as a matter of personal integrity and civic responsibility.

Cross-References

• Romans 13:1-2: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers.

For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.

Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation."

• Titus 3:1: "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,"
• 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."

Language Study

The original Greek word for "subject" in this verse is "ὑποτάσσω" (hypotassō), meaning to arrange under, to subordinate, to subject, to submit to one’s control.

The term "wrath" is translated from "ὀργή" (orgē), often referring to punishment or penal vengeance.

"Conscience," from "συνείδησις" (syneidēsis), denotes an awareness of moral or ethical standards, an internal sense of right and wrong.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Roman culture, law and societal order were highly valued for the stability of the Empire.

Comparatively, in other ancient cultures, such as the Hebrew society, divine laws were seen as of utmost importance, and obeying human rulers was also expected as long as they did not conflict with God's commandments.

In many religions, the concept of being subject to higher powers is common, with variations on how strictly this is interpreted.

Scientific Perspectives

The concept of obeying authority has parallels in the field of psychology, particularly in studies of obedience and conscience, such as the famous Milgram experiments.

These studies offer insights into why individuals might choose to follow or defy authority, exploring the tension between external pressure and internal moral compass, which is at the heart of Romans 13:5.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Romans 13:5.

Some argue that Paul is laying out a principle of general civil obedience, recognizing the authority of the state in matters not conflicting with faith.

Others point out that there are limits to submission, particularly when governments act unjustly or demand actions contrary to Christian belief.

Reformation leaders like Martin Luther and John Calvin emphasized the importance of civil order but also advocated for resistance when the government opposed divine law.

Contemporary theologarians continue to debate the balance between obeying government authorities and obeying God.