Romans 13: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Romans 13 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Every person must be in subjection to governing authorities, as all authority comes from God (vv. 1-2). Rulers are a terror not to good conduct, but to evil; doing good will earn praise (vv. 3-5). Believers are to pay taxes and give respect and honor to their authorities, who serve God in this capacity (vv. 6-7). The only debt believers should have is to love one another, fulfilling the law by loving their neighbor (vv. 8-10). Knowing the time, believers are urged to awaken from sleep, as salvation is nearer than when they first believed (vv. 11-12). They are to put off the deeds of darkness and walk properly, avoiding immoral behavior (vv. 13-14). Wearing the Lord Jesus Christ, they should not make provision for the flesh and its desires.

Key verse

“Let every soul be in subjection to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those who exist are ordained by God.”
Romans 13:1 (WEB)

Outline

Romans 13:1–2 Submission to Authorities
Romans 13:3–5 Rulers and Good Conduct
Romans 13:6–7 Obligation of Taxes and Respect
Romans 13:8–10 Debt of Love
Romans 13:11–12 Awakening to Salvation
Romans 13:13–14 Living in the Light

Discussion questions

In v1, what is said about 'higher authorities' and their origin?
What does Paul mean by 'the sword' in v4?
In v10, how does Paul explain the term 'fulfillment of the law' through love?
In v11, why does Paul emphasize the urgency of awakening 'out of sleep'?
When have you felt challenged to 'owe no one anything' (v8) except love?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Romans 13: Matthew 22, Galatians 5, Ephesians 5.

Before next time: read Romans 14.