(1) Let every soul he subject to the higher powers. The expression every soul is often used as equivalent to every one ,- it is at times, how- ever, emphatic, and such is probably the case in this passage. By higher powers is most commonly and naturally understood those in authority, without reference to their grade of ofhce, or their character. We are to be subject not only to the supreme magistrates, but to all who have autho- rity over us. The abstract word powers or authorities is used, as the cor- responding terms in most languages, for those who are invested with power, Luke 12 : 11. Eph. 1 : 21. 3 : 10, &c. &c. The word rendered higher is applied to any one who, in dignity and authority, excels others. In 1 Pet. 2 : 13, it is applied to the king as supreme, i. e. superior to all other magistrates. But here one class of magistrates is not brought into
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