13. Be willing to serve the people who have authority in this world. Do this for the Lord. Obey the king, the highest authority.
14. And obey the leaders who are sent by the king. They are sent to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do good.
15. When you do good, you stop ignorant people from saying foolish things about you. This is what God wants.
16. Live like free people, but don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Live as those who are serving God.
17. Show respect for all people. Love your brothers and sisters in God’s family. Respect God, and honor the king.
18. Slaves, be willing to serve your masters. Do this with all respect. You should obey the masters who are good and kind, and you should obey the masters who are bad.
19. One of you might have to suffer even when you have done nothing wrong. If you think of God and bear the pain, this pleases God.