[newgeezer]

Umm, there've been governments throughout history up to and including the present day that have wielded (and do wield) plenty of authority, but which I can pretty well guarantee weren't given it from anywhere above.

See, that's where you and I disagree. I can absolutely all power comes from above. I believe the Bible in its entirety, including the part where it's eminently clear that the Almighty is sovereign in everything.

Maybe you have a different interpretation of history, but I'm pretty sure yours is in the minority.

No doubt. That's by design, too.

[newgeezer]

When I wrote, "I can absolutely all power comes from above," what I meant was, "I can absolutely guarantee all power comes from above."

The sovereign Creator is not subject to the will of His creation.