Citizens: Duties of

You must not blaspheme God or curse the ruler of your people.

Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of Israel will obey him.

Then they will be able to offer sacrifices of a sweet aroma to the God of heaven and to pray for the lives of the king and his sons.

If anyone does not keep the law of your God and the law of the king, let a strict judgment be executed against him, whether death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment.

Whoever failed to appear within three days would forfeit all his property, according to the counsel of the leaders and elders, and would himself be expelled from the assembly of the exiles.

The wrath of a king is a messenger of death, but a wise man will pacify it.

When a king’s face brightens, there is life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not associate with the rebellious.

Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of great men;

…for it is better to be told, “Come up here!” than to be demoted in the presence of the prince. Even what you have seen with your own eyes,

Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

Keep the king’s command, I say, because of your oath before God. …

If the ruler’s temper flares against you, do not abandon your post, for calmness lays great offenses to rest.

Do not curse the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich even in your bedroom, for a bird of the air may carry your words, and a winged creature may report your speech.

Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.”

After they had arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax came to Peter and asked, “Does your Teacher pay the two drachmas?” …

So tell us what You think: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” …

“Teacher,” they said, “we know that You are honest and seek favor from no one. Indeed, You are impartial and teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay them or not?” …

Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” …

Finally the city clerk quieted the crowd and declared, “Men of Ephesus, doesn’t everyone know that the city of Ephesus is guardian of the temple of the great Artemis and of her image, which fell from heaven? …

“Brothers,” Paul replied, “I was not aware that he was the high priest, for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’”

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. …

Therefore it is necessary to submit to authority, not only to avoid punishment, but also as a matter of conscience. …

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone—

…for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity.

Remind the believers to submit to rulers and authorities, to be obedient and ready for every good work,

Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, …