Speaking of the secular authority, Paul continues: “It is God’s minister to you for your good. But if you are doing what is bad, be in fear: for it is not without purpose that it bears the sword; for it is God’s minister, an avenger to express wrath upon the one practicing what is bad. ” ​ — Romans 13: 4.
Rääkides ilmalikust võimust, jätkab Paulus: „Tema on Jumala teener sinu heaks; aga kui sa kurja teed, karda, sest ta ei kanna mõõka asjata; ta on Jumala teenija, kättemaksja nuhtluseks sellele, kes kurja teeb. ” — Roomlastele 13: 4.