Most likely, he is simply repeating a point that he often made to believers (see Rom 13:1–7; see also 1 Pet 2:13–17).136 He taught that since civil authorities exist by the will of God (either because he appoints them or allows them to be in office), believers are expected to obey them. The mention of both “rulers” and “authorities” is not unnecessary repetition.137 Paul is describing different aspects of leadership. The best way to illustrate this may be by means of an example. If I go to my local