Romans 13Let 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. 2 Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. 4 For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.
6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 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.
Mark12:17Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.� And they marveled at him.
So Jesus implores both of these above.
However, Rome was a divine republic, the will of Jove was identified with the will of the state, and the Caesars semi-divine, if not actually divine.
Knowing Jesus attachment to Judaism, how is it possible for him to take these stances in the face of a jealous god?
Isn't there an actual commandment against it?
I am betting most of you didn't think I could quote the Bible without my fingers turning into flame, huh? Probably just this old Nick quoting scripture.
BTW, I am not accepting the position Rome was just a government. It was a divine government with Capitoline Jove as its head, AND theologically in charge of its revenue. "A loan to Jove is a loan to the state." R Graves.