A terror (φοβος). This meaning in Isa 8:13. Paul does not approve all that rulers do, but he is speaking generally of the ideal be…

For rulers. The apostle here speaks of rulers in general. It may not be universally true that they are not a terror to good works…

To good works.—Literally, to the good work, as if it were personified. Human law can only take account of what is actuall…

These verses constitute the most difficult portion of the passage, for they seem to take no account of the possibility that government may be tyran…

For princes, etc. He now commends to us obedience to princes on the ground of utility; for the causative γὰρ, for, is to be refer…

For rulers are not a terror to good works
That is, to them that do good works in a civil sense; who behave well in t…

The grace of the gospel teaches us submission and quiet, where pride and the carnal mind only see causes for murmuring and discontent. Whatever the…

1. After showing how a person should behave toward God by using the gifts of His grace, the Apostle now shows how a person should conduct hi…