1 Let every soul submit himself unto the authority of the higher powers. For there is no power, but of God. The powers that be, are ordained of God.
2 Whosoever therefore resisteth power, resisteth the ordinance of God. And they that resist, shall receive to themselves damnation.
3 For rulers are not to be feared for good works but for evil. Wilt thou be without fear of the power? Do well then: and so shalt thou be praised of the same.
4 For he is the minister of God, for thy wealth. But and if thou do evil, then fear: for he beareth not a sword for nought; but is the minister of God, to take vengeance on them that do evil.
5 Wherefore ye must needs obey, not for fear of vengeance only: but also because of conscience.
6 And even for this cause pay ye tribute. For they are God's ministers, serving for the same purpose.
7 Give to every man therefore his duty: Tribute to whom tribute belongeth: Custom to whom custom is due: fear to whom fear belongeth: Honour to whom honour pertaineth.
8 Owe nothing to any man: but to love one another. For he that loveth another, fulfilleth the law.
9 For these commandments: Thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness, thou shalt not desire, and so forth: if there be any other commandment, they are all comprehended in this saying, "Love thine neighbor as thyself."