Romans 13: 1-7 : a review of post-1989 readings

Abstract

Romans 13:1-7 has remained a challenge for interpreters throughout the history of the New Testament. A previous study investigated the actual readings of the passage during the political transition in South Africa. The present article is a follow-up study and examines readings in the post-1989 period. Political events and the rise of empire studies deeply influenced the reading of the passage. Certain types of reading continue, but there is also a marked increase of ‘realistic’ or ‘pragmatic’ readings. The article concludes with some future perspectives.