What does Romans 13:6 mean?

Explanation

Romans 13:6 is part of a larger passage in Paul's letter to the Romans that addresses the Christian attitude towards governing authorities.

The verse literally suggests that paying taxes is part of a Christian's civic responsibility.

The phrase "for this cause" refers back to the preceding verses, which explain that authorities are instituted by God and that one should submit to them not only out of fear of punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

The deeper meaning behind this verse relates to the idea that governments perform a service ordained by God.

They are seen as "ministers of God," with the term "ministers" used here implying that they are servants appointed by God to manage civil matters.

By attending "continually upon this very thing," it is meant that their role is to continuously serve the purpose of maintaining order and justice in society.

Historical Context

This verse was written by the Apostle Paul in the first century A.D., during a time when the Roman Empire was the ruling authority.

It is important to recognize that Roman citizens and subjects were required to pay taxes to support the empire.

For the emerging Christian community, there were questions on how they should interact with secular authorities and whether they should pay taxes to a pagan government.

Paul, in his letter, provides guidance on how Christians should conduct themselves in relation to civil authorities.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives offer unique interpretations of Romans 13:6.

From a traditional Christian viewpoint, this verse reaffirms the belief in God’s sovereign control over all institutions, including government.

Some theologians maintain that it teaches the legitimacy of government and its right to levy taxes.

Liberation theology might stress the importance of this verse in requiring governments to be just and to serve the common good, as they are called to be God's servants for the benefit of the people.

Conversely, those who stress the separation of church and state might emphasize the need for the church to hold the state accountable to God’s standards of justice.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 13:6 suggests that Christians should be responsible citizens by paying taxes and being law-abiding. It encourages believers to participate in the civil process with the understanding that such participation is part of their service to God.

Additionally, it provides a theological rationale for Christians to serve in government and public service roles with integrity and a sense of higher purpose.

Cross-References

• Romans 13:1 "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."
• Titus 3:1 "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work."

Language Study

In the original Greek, key words include:

• "tribute" (φόρος - phoros), which refers to the tax or levy imposed by a government.
• "ministers" (λειτουργοί - leitourgoi), which in this context means public servants or officers.

This term also has religious connotations, as it is related to the Greek word for liturgy.

• "attending" (προσκαρτεροῦντες - proskarterountes), which means to persist in or diligently to continue a cause.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the cultural context of ancient Rome, paying tribute was a sign of subjection and loyalty to the Empire.

Many other cultures had similar practices. Religiously, the notion of governmental authority as being ordained by a divine power has analogs in other ancient religions, including the divine right of kings in various cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

There's no direct intersection between this Biblical verse and modern scientific understandings, as it deals with governance, civic duties, and theological concepts.

Commentaries

Various experts and Bible commentators offer insights on Romans 13:6.

For example, John Calvin emphasizes the importance of the civil government as a means used by God to uphold the societal order.

Matthew Henry's commentary explains that this verse highlights the legitimacy of paying taxes and also reminds rulers of their duty to govern justly.

Similarly, contemporary scholars often highlight the balance between obedience to civil law and accountability of governments to uphold godly principles of justice and service.