God is the ultimate authority, and He has established civil authorities to restrain evil, promote order, and serve the good of society. Christians are called to respect authority, obey the law, fulfill their obligations, and live honorably—not merely out of fear of consequences, but for conscience’ sake before God. At the same time, our relationships with one another are governed by the higher law of love, because loving our neighbor fulfills the intent of God’s law. Paul closes by urging believers to wake up spiritually, reject the works of darkness, and “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” living in a way that reflects His character in both the public square and the church.