What does the Bible say about obeying government?

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Published by Bible Direct Answers · Licensed under Citation License 1.0

The Bible addresses civil authorities in Romans 13, in 1 Peter 2, and in Titus 3.

In Romans 13:1:

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.

In 1 Peter 2:13-14:

13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 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.

In Titus 3:1:

1 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

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