Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 13:2

"Therefore he that resisteth the power, withstandeth the ordinance of God: and they that withstand shall receive to themselves judgment." — Romans 13:2 (ASV)

Those who refuse submission are rebelling against what God has ordained. While it is true that “the world” can be set over against God , this cannot be said of the state, despite the fact that individual governments may at times be anti-God in their stance. Those who rebel “will bring judgment on themselves.” This judgment refers to that which is administered through human channels and in the sphere of human affairs (cf. Jesus’ words in Mt 26:52). For example, the Jewish revolt against Rome that began within a decade after Paul wrote led to the sack of Jerusalem and the dispersion of the nation.