Romans 13:2 web — Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themse…

World English Bible

"Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment."

— Romans 13:2, World English Bible

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Romans 13:2 in Other Translations

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Romans 13 — Context

1

Let every soul be in subjection to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are ordained by God.

2

Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment.

3

For rulers are not a terror to the good work, but to the evil. Do you desire to have no fear of the authority? Do that which is good, and you will have praise from the same,

4

for he is a servant of God to you for good. But if you do that which is evil, be afraid, for he doesn't bear the sword in vain; for he is a servant of God, an avenger for wrath to him who does evil.

5

Therefore you need to be in subjection, not only because of the wrath, but also for conscience' sake.

Romans 13:2 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Romans 13:2 say?
Romans 13:2 in the World English Bible reads: “Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment.”
Where is Romans 13:2 in the Bible?
Romans 13:2 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Romans, chapter 13, verse 2.
Who wrote Romans?
Romans is traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle. It was written c. AD 56–57.
What is the book of Romans about?
Romans is Paul's most systematic exposition of the gospel — the universal need for salvation, justification by faith in Christ, the new life of the Spirit, the place of Israel in God's plan, and the practical shape of a transformed community. The most influential letter in church history.
What are the major themes of Romans?
Romans explores themes including Righteousness by Faith, Sin, Grace, Spirit-Filled Life, Israel, Christian Living. These themes shape the meaning and context of Romans 13:2.
What translation should I read Romans 13:2 in?
Romans 13:2 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Romans 13:2?
Romans 13:2 reads (WEB): “Therefore he who resists the authority, withstands the ordinance of God; and those who withstand will receive to themselves judgment.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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