over something than the one who conceived and originated it? “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Rom. 13:1). God is originator of the created order, the Creator of all things, the “Maker of all things visible and invisible” and hence the Author of being in general: God “calls into existence the things that do not exist” (Rom. 4:17). God also initiates covenantal relationships and institutions: “I will establish my covenant with you” (Gen.