Romans 13:1 Quotes
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Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (Romans 13:1)
Context
This line is written by Paul in Romans 13:1.
Like a lot of Paul's letters, this one's full of free advice (to the Romans, in this case). Here he's telling them that they should be subject to whatever powers are over them, since God probably put 'em there.
Where you've heard it
People talk about "the powers that be" all the time, especially when it's not totally clear who the boss is. "Hey Louisa, did you get that parking ticket dismissed?" "No, the powers that be ignored my petitions."
Pretentious Factor
If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.
Maybe a little more pretentious than saying "the mucky-mucks," but not much.