The concept of respecting authority is a timeless virtue. The Bible provides valuable teachings on the importance of honoring authority figures in our lives. Let’s look into these verses that highlight the significance of this principle.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Being Ready For The Second Coming
Bible Verses About Respecting Authority
Romans 13:1
“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of respecting and submitting to the authority that God has established. It reminds us that all governing authorities are ultimately appointed by God, and therefore, we should honor and obey them.
Ephesians 6:5
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.”
Even in the context of slavery, this verse teaches us to respect and honor our earthly authorities. It encourages slaves to obey their masters not out of fear or obligation, but with sincerity of heart, as if they were serving Christ Himself.
1 Peter 2:13-14
“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right.”
Here, Peter instructs believers to submit and respect every human authority, including the emperor and governors. He reminds us that these authorities have been appointed by God to maintain justice by punishing wrongdoers and commending those who do right.
Colossians 3:22
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.”
Similar to Ephesians 6:5, this verse reminds slaves to obey their masters sincerely, not just when being watched or seeking favor, but out of reverence for the Lord. It emphasizes the importance of respecting authority, even in difficult situations.
Titus 3:1
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.”
This verse instructs believers to be subject to rulers and authorities, emphasizing the importance of obedience. It encourages us to be ready and willing to do what is good and right in the eyes of God, even if it means submitting to authority.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Paul encourages believers to pray for kings and all those in authority. He highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance and intervention for those who hold positions of power, so that we may experience peaceful and godly lives.
Hebrews 13:17
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.”
This verse reminds us to have confidence in our leaders and submit to their authority, recognizing that they are accountable for the well-being of those under their care. It encourages us to support and cooperate with our leaders, ensuring that their work is a joy rather than a burden.
1 Peter 2:17
“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
Peter encourages believers to show respect to everyone, including those in authority. This verse reminds us that respecting authority is not only a commandment from God but also an expression of our love for Him and our commitment to living in harmony with others.
Proverbs 24:21
“Fear the Lord and the king, my son, and do not join with rebellious officials.”
This proverb advises us to have both reverence for the Lord and respect for the king or those in authority. It warns against aligning ourselves with rebellious officials or engaging in acts of insubordination.
1 Timothy 6:1
“All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered.”
Paul instructs those under the yoke of slavery to consider their masters worthy of full respect. By doing so, they can uplift the name of God and protect the integrity of Christian teachings.
Proverbs 14:35
“A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant arouses his fury.”
This proverb highlights the importance of being a wise and respectful servant in the eyes of a king or ruler. It suggests that by conducting ourselves properly and respectfully, we can find favor and avoid arousing the anger of those in authority.
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
This verse reminds us to remember and honor our spiritual leaders. It encourages us to reflect on the positive outcome of their way of life and to imitate their faith, recognizing their authority as those who have spoken the word of God to us.
Proverbs 25:6-7
“Do not exalt yourself in the king’s presence, and do not claim a place among his great men; it is better for him to say to you, ‘Come up here,’ than for him to humiliate you before his nobles.”
These proverbs caution against seeking to exalt ourselves in the presence of a king or ruler. Instead, we are encouraged to wait for the honor to be bestowed upon us by those in authority, recognizing that humility is more desirable than embarrassment.
Matthew 22:21
““So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.””
When asked about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus responds with this statement. He teaches us the importance of acknowledging and respecting the authority of earthly rulers, while still prioritizing our loyalty and devotion to God.
Romans 13:7
“Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
Paul instructs believers to fulfill their obligations to others, including paying taxes and showing respect and honor to those who are deserving. This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing the authority and responsibilities of different individuals.
Acts 23:5
“Paul replied, ‘Brothers, I did not realize that he was the high priest; for it is written: ‘Do not speak evil about the ruler of your people.’”
When questioned by the high priest, Paul realizes his mistake in speaking disrespectfully. He refers to the commandment from the Old Testament to not speak evil about the ruler of his people, exhibiting a humble attitude towards authority.
1 Samuel 24:6
“He said to his men, ‘The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the Lord.’”
When David had the opportunity to harm Saul, the anointed king of Israel, he refrained from touching him out of respect for Saul’s position as God’s chosen leader. This verse illustrates the reverence and respect we should have towards those in authority.
Proverbs 16:14
“A king’s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.”
This proverb highlights the potential consequences of arousing a king’s anger and emphasizes the wisdom in seeking ways to pacify or appease those in authority, rather than inciting their wrath.
Acts 5:29
“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than human beings!’”
In a situation where obeying human authorities would go against God’s commands, the apostles assert their allegiance to God, emphasizing that our ultimate obedience should be to God rather than man.
Ecclesiastes 8:2
“Obey the king’s command, I say, because you took an oath before God.”
This verse encourages obedience to the king’s command, reminding us of our commitments and oaths made before God. It reinforces the idea that honoring authority is part of our duty as followers of God.
Acts 5:40-41
“His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.”
In this passage, although the apostles were ordered not to speak in the name of Jesus, they left the Sanhedrin rejoicing because they considered it a privilege to suffer disgrace for the sake of His name. This shows the willingness to submit to authority, even when it means facing persecution.
Romans 13:5
“Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of submitting to authorities not only out of fear of punishment but also as a matter of conscience. It highlights that respecting and obeying authority is a reflection of our inner moral compass.
Matthew 28:18-20
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”
In the Great Commission, Jesus declares that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him. He then instructs His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything He has commanded. This highlights the authority of Christ and our responsibility to follow and honor Him.
What Does the Bible Say About Respecting Authority?
Respecting authority is an important principle in the Bible. The apostle Paul wrote in Romans 13:1-2 that all authority is established by God, and therefore, we should obey those in authority over us. This includes our government leaders, employers, and spiritual leaders. God has placed them in their positions for a reason, and by respecting and obeying them, we are ultimately honoring God.
In 1 Peter 2:13-17, Peter also urges us to submit to the governing authorities and to honor everyone. This extends beyond just obeying laws; it also means showing respect to all people, regardless of their position or status.
However, this does not mean that we blindly follow every command, especially if it contradicts God’s Word. Acts 5:29 states that we must obey God rather than men if there is a conflict between human authority and God’s commands.
Ultimately, the Bible teaches us to respect authority, but also to discern when to obey and when to respectfully dissent if necessary. Our goal is to live as peaceful and respectful citizens, honoring God through our obedience and our interactions with those in authority over us.