James I (a Presbyterian, r. in Scotland, 1567 as James VI; in England 1603 – 1625) publishes his King James translation of the Bible, which contains a slanted reinterpretation of Romans, Chapter 13 that James uses to require his subjects to submit themselves,

       unto the higher powers.  For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.  Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil.  Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: … (emphasis added)

       NOTE: Pastor Charles “Chuck” Baldwin sees unquestioned obedience to evil rulers as naive at best, and an affront to God’s commandments at worst.  Just as Christians are commanded to submit themselves to godly rulers, these rulers are bound by oath to submit themselves to the Constitution for the united States.  Baldwin asserts what our “higher power” in this manner:

       Let every soul be subject unto the [U.S. Constitution.]  For there is no [Constitution] but of God: the [Constitution] that be [is] ordained of God.  Whosoever therefore resisteth the [Constitution], resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.  For [the Constitution is] not a terror to good works, but to the evil.  Wilt thou then not be afraid of the [Constitution]? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: …

       [added 9/21/2024]