Providence    
Government of Men      

   While the unholy Roman empire ruled, Paul - under guidance of the Spirit - wrote: 

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted...

For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong.

Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority?

Then do what is right and he will commend you.

For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid,

for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is...an agent of wrath...

Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, 

not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.

This is why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, 

who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him...

taxes - revenue - respect - honor.

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellow man has fulfilled the law.

Romans 13:1-8

   Paul describes government as it should be. God gave the Israelites a king only because they refused to accept God as their leader, protector, etc. 

In this fallen world, we need protection from chaos and lawlessness, the result of sin. Leaders themselves are fallen, some more than others. 

   From our commentary: When the state requires something contrary to God's word, Christians must obey God rather than other humans.