When I deconstructed Romans 13, suddenly it does not contradict 1 Samuel 8. In my view, Kings is a consequence of making the wrong choice in 1 Samuel 8. However, governments around the world use it to prove that they are in power with God's will and authority. No. It just means that people rejected God and this is the consequence. I can see how the fellow could see it as a punishment for straying. Interesting take on it all. Thank you for sharing that.