According to Paul, a ruler does not bear the sword in vain but he
Answer Details
According to Paul, a ruler does not bear the sword in vain but he executes God's wrath on the wrong doer. This means that rulers or leaders have the responsibility to enforce the law and administer justice, which includes punishing those who violate the law. The "sword" here is a metaphor for the authority and power that rulers have to maintain order and protect their citizens, and they are expected to use it wisely and justly, in accordance with God's principles of righteousness and justice.