1. Let every soul be subject to higher authorities. For there is no authority except from God and those who have been ordained by God.
2. And so, whoever resists authority, resists what has been ordained by God. And those who resist are acquiring damnation for themselves.
3. For leaders are not a source of fear to those who work good, but to those who work evil. And would you prefer not to be afraid of authority? Then do what is good, and you shall have praise from them.
4. For he is a minister of God for you unto good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid. For it is not without reason that he carries a sword. For he is a minister of God; an avenger to execute wrath upon whomever does evil.