Commentaries:
Barnes' Notes
Wherefore - ́ dio . The "reasons" why we should be subject, which the apostle had given, were two,
(1)That government was appointed by God.
(2)That violation of the laws would necessarily expose to punishment.
Ye must needs be - It is "necessary" ̓́ anagkē to be. This is a word stronger than what implies mere "fitness" or propriety. It means that it is a matter of high obligation and of "necessity" to be subject to the civil ruler.
Not only for wrath - Not only on account of the "fear of punishment;" or the fact that wrath will be executed on evil doers.
For conscience' sake - As a matter of conscience, or of "duty to God," because "he" has appointed it, and made it necessary and proper. A good citizen yields obedience because it is the will of God; and a Christian makes it a part of his religion to maintain and obey the just laws of the land; see Matthew 22:21; compare Ecclesiastes 8:2, "I counsel them to keep the king' s commandments, and "that in regard of the oath of God."
Other Barnes' Notes entries containing Romans 13:5:
Exodus 20:1-17
Psalms 80:17
Matthew 17:24-27
Matthew 22:41-46
Luke 3:13
Acts 5:26
Romans 1:18
Romans 13:6
1 Timothy 2:2
1 Timothy 6:1
1 Peter 2:13
1 Peter 2:13
1 Peter 2:17
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