Today we will talk about kjv bible verses about respecting authority. Many Christians do not know what this means. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word. Respecting authority is not always easy, but it shapes how we live together as families, churches, and nations. As we open the KJV scriptures, we will see guidance on honoring leaders, parents, masters, and rulers, and also the ways God asks us to obey Him first when human commands conflict with His will. Let us come with humble hearts, ready to learn and to apply truth. We will be gentle with one another as we consider what Scripture says, and we will look for Jesus’ example of humility and respect even toward those who opposed Him. This journey through kjv bible verses about respecting authority will encourage our faith, help us grow in character, and point us toward wise action when authority is abused. We will remember that God is the highest authority and that He orders things for our good when we trust Him. Be still and listen as we read these verses, and let our hearts be shaped by them.
kjv bible verses about respecting authority
Submission to Governing Authorities
In our walk together, we encounter the need to obey civil and governmental leaders. When we read kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we find that God often places leaders in roles for order and protection. We do not always understand every choice leaders make, but Scripture teaches us to submit to higher powers with humility. This does not mean blind acceptance of wrongdoing, but it does mean we try to live peaceably, pay dues, and follow laws that do not force us to disobey God. As a community, we remember that submission helps maintain peace and gives us a platform for witness. We can pray for leaders, honor their office, and serve our neighbors well. When leaders act unjustly, our submission to God gives us courage to respond rightly. These kjv bible verses about respecting authority invite us to be model citizens whose hearts reflect Christ’s love even under human rule.
Romans 13:1
“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. – Romans 13:1“
Romans 13:2
“Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. – Romans 13:2“
Romans 13:5
“Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. – Romans 13:5“
1 Peter 2:13
“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; – 1 Peter 2:13“
Titus 3:1
“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, – Titus 3:1“
Respect for Parents and Family Authority
We value family because family is often where we first learn respect. In our study of kjv bible verses about respecting authority, the Bible shows that honoring parents is both a moral duty and a blessing. We see that children are called to obey and honor their parents, and parents are asked to lead with love and wisdom. When we practice this respect, we build trust and strong homes. We learn obedience, responsibility, and how to treat others. As a group, we remember that obedience at home prepares us for broader responsibility in church and society. While families are not perfect, Scripture points us back to honoring our parents as a foundation for right living. Let us encourage one another to listen, to serve, and to show honor in small daily ways that reflect God’s design for family life.
Ephesians 6:1
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. – Ephesians 6:1“
Colossians 3:20
“Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. – Colossians 3:20“
Exodus 20:12
“Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. – Exodus 20:12“
Proverbs 1:8
“My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: – Proverbs 1:8“
Proverbs 6:20
“My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: – Proverbs 6:20“
Respect for Church Leaders
As a church family, we depend on leaders to teach, guide, and shepherd us. When we look at kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we find clear calls to honor those who care for our souls. Respecting church leaders does not mean we agree with everything they say, but it does mean we listen, pray for them, and submit where Scripture leads. Leaders bear responsibilities and will give an account to God, so our help and encouragement matter. We submit in love, and we also hold leaders accountable through gentle, biblical means when needed. These verses remind us that respect builds unity and strengthens the mission of the church. We are called to nurture leaders with thankfulness and to remember the example of Christ, who served rather than demanded service.
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. – Hebrews 13:17“
1 Thessalonians 5:12
“And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; – 1 Thessalonians 5:12“
1 Timothy 5:17
“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. – 1 Timothy 5:17“
Hebrews 13:7
“Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. – Hebrews 13:7“
1 Peter 5:5
“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. – 1 Peter 5:5“
Respect for Masters and Employers
In our daily work, we meet authority in the form of employers and managers. When we read kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we find clear guidance on how servants and workers should behave. The Bible asks us to serve with sincerity, as if serving Christ. That attitude changes how we work: we become honest, punctual, and faithful. Employers are also reminded to be just and kind. Respect at work honors God and builds good witness. Even when we are not treated fairly, Scripture teaches patience and shows how God sees our faithful service. We encourage each other to work heartily, to do our best for God, and to trust Him to right wrongs in His time.
Ephesians 6:5
“Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; – Ephesians 6:5“
Colossians 3:22
“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; – Colossians 3:22“
1 Peter 2:18
“Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. – 1 Peter 2:18“
Titus 2:9
“Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; – Titus 2:9“
Ephesians 6:9
“And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. – Ephesians 6:9“
Respect for Authorities in Society
We live in communities that need laws, order, and respect for public institutions. When we study kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we find wisdom on how to relate to society’s rulers. Jesus taught that we should render to civil authority what belongs to them while honoring God above all. We are called to pray for leaders and to obey laws that align with God’s commands. Respect in society helps protect the vulnerable and keeps neighborhoods safe. As a group, we must also remember to be voices for justice and mercy. Respect does not mean silence when evil persists, but it does mean we start with obedience and add godly action when change is needed. Together we can model respectful citizenship that reflects our faith.
Matthew 22:21
“They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s. – Matthew 22:21“
Daniel 2:21
“And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: – Daniel 2:21“
Proverbs 24:21
“My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change: – Proverbs 24:21“
Romans 13:6
“For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. – Romans 13:6“
1 Peter 2:14
“For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. – 1 Peter 2:14“
Obedience to God and Respect for Earthly Authority
We often face hard choices when human commands conflict with God’s law. In our reflection on kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we learn that God’s authority is highest. We must obey God first when a choice forces us between the two. The Bible gives brave examples of those who trusted God even under pressure. We do not reject earthly authority lightly, but we pledge to follow God’s clear commands. This commitment takes courage and prayer. As we walk together, we encourage one another to seek wisdom and to stand firm in faith when God calls us to obey Him above all. Our respect for human leaders is grounded in our ultimate loyalty to God.
Acts 5:29
“Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. – Acts 5:29“
Daniel 3:16-18
“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. – Daniel 3:16-18“
Daniel 6:10
“Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. – Daniel 6:10“
Exodus 1:17
“But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive. – Exodus 1:17“
1 Samuel 15:22
“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. – 1 Samuel 15:22“
Respect Through Humility and Submission
We know that respect often grows from humble hearts. When we study kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we see that humility is a key virtue. Being humble helps us submit to rightful leaders without pride or grumbling. Humility also opens us to correction and growth. As a fellowship, we choose to lower ourselves in service rather than push others down. This attitude creates peace and makes it easier to honor authority in families, workplaces, and churches. Scripture tells us God lifts the humble, so our practice of humility is both practical and spiritual. Together we can build lives shaped by gentle, Christlike submission that honors God and people in authority.
James 4:7
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. – James 4:7“
Philippians 2:3-4
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. – Philippians 2:3-4“
1 Peter 5:5
“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. – 1 Peter 5:5“
Ephesians 5:21
“Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. – Ephesians 5:21“
Matthew 23:12
“And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. – Matthew 23:12“
Respecting Authority When It’s Righteous
We are called to honor authority when it aligns with God’s ways. In our reading of kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we see examples where faithful people worked within law and leadership to do good. Respecting righteous authority means supporting leaders who protect, feed, and guide the people in truth. It also means standing with leaders when they teach Godly ways, even if it is unpopular. When leaders act in accord with God’s Word, we back them by prayer, obedience, and encouragement. We can also learn from leaders’ example and let their faith shape our communities. Such respect strengthens God’s work and reflects our shared commitment to justice and truth.
Acts 4:19-20
“But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. – Acts 4:19-20“
John 19:11
“Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. – John 19:11“
Matthew 22:21
“They say unto him, Caesar’s. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s. – Matthew 22:21“
Romans 13:4
“For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. – Romans 13:4“
Daniel 2:21
“And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: – Daniel 2:21“
Challenging Unjust Authority with Wisdom
There are times when authority is used wrongly. In our study of kjv bible verses about respecting authority, the Bible shows that God values justice and calls us to act wisely. We do not respond with violence or hate, but with prayer, courage, and truth. The Scriptures give us examples of people who spoke up for the helpless and used wisdom to change hearts and laws. We must do the same: pray, seek counsel, and act with humility. When we challenge injustice, we should do so legally, peacefully, and lovingly, trusting God to lead us. As a fellowship, we support one another in pursuing justice in ways that honor both God and our neighbors.
Exodus 1:15-17
“And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah: And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive. – Exodus 1:15-17“
Esther 4:14
“For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? – Esther 4:14“
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy. – Proverbs 31:8-9“
Isaiah 1:17
“Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. – Isaiah 1:17“
Micah 6:8
“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? – Micah 6:8“
Rewards and Consequences of Respecting Authority
As we reflect on kjv bible verses about respecting authority, we see that God promises order, protection, and blessing when we live rightly. The Bible also warns that rebellion brings trouble. Respecting authority can bring favor and peace, while ignoring just authority can bring harm to ourselves and others. Our actions have consequences, and Scripture reminds us to live with wisdom. We also see that righteous leaders bring blessing to their people, and wicked rule brings sorrow. As a church, we encourage one another to choose paths that lead to life and stability. We trust that God rewards obedience and that He works through just structures to bless communities.
Romans 13:4
“For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. – Romans 13:4“
Proverbs 29:2
“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn. – Proverbs 29:2“
Hebrews 13:17
“Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. – Hebrews 13:17“
Galatians 6:7
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. – Galatians 6:7“
Psalm 2:10-12
“Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. – Psalm 2:10-12“
Final Thoughts
I have walked with you through kjv bible verses about respecting authority, and together we have seen how Scripture guides our hearts toward honor, humility, and justice. We learned to respect parents, leaders, employers, and rulers, while remembering that God’s authority is supreme and sometimes requires courage to obey Him first.
We shared examples of faithful people in the Bible who trusted God, served others, and spoke up for the weak. As we go forward, let us pray for wisdom, practice humble submission, and act with courage when truth and justice demand it. Our respect for authority should always be shaped by love and by the Word of God.
May we be a community that honors God, supports good leaders, cares for one another, and stands firmly for what is right. Let these kjv bible verses about respecting authority guide our steps and grow our character in Christ.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
