for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an (A)avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also (B)for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.

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For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.(A) Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.(B)

This is also why you pay taxes,(C) for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing.

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