“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1
God has ordained that there should be “governing authorities”, and every believer is to be subject to these various authorities, even if these authorities are evil as Nero, the emperor of Rome who cruelly persecuted Christians. When Paul wrote this letter, Nero was in power. Yet Paul exhorted the Roman believers to submit to Nero’s authority, because that authority was ordained by God Himself, although obviously God may not approve of all acts that a government or leader may do.
“Subject” is a military term meaning to march in the proper order.
“Established by God” … Paul’s words are inclusive because all authority originates from God, the higher authority to whom ultimate obedience is due both from those in authority and under it. Although Jews had occasionally clashed with Roman authorities, they had long recognized the wisdom in supporting governments under which they lived. Paul encourages similar attitudes among Christians. Believers are to honor those in authority, obey the government, and pay their taxes. To fail to do so is to suffer the consequences from those in authority and possibly from God as well.
God is the ultimate authority; after all, He used His power to save believers eternally.
God’s blessings on your day…