Since 1962 they understand the “superior authorities” of Romans 13:1 to be the rulers of worldly governments, whereas up to that time, since 1929, they had held a different viewpoint.

Likewise as to the scripture at Romans 13:1, a correct understanding was gained by careful and critical study of the context and related pertinent scriptures. It was seen that the apostle Paul, in Romans chapter 12, dealt first with matters inside the congregation, then, at verse Ro 12:17, he began to turn his attention to the outside. From there on, Paul leads into the discussion of the superior authorities and, on through Ro 13 verse 7 in chapter 13, he is clearly talking about authorities in the governments of this world. This understanding did not cause a change in the attitude of Jehovah’s witnesses as regards their relationship to God or in their attitude toward rulers. No, for they continued to follow the principle enunciated by Jesus Christ: “Pay back, therefore, Caesar’s things to Caesar, but God’s things to God.” (Matt. 22:21) But it did result in a readjusted view as to the meaning of Romans 13:1.