The Greek term translated here as “institution” actually means creation. It is the word used in Genesis 1:1–31 (in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament) to describe the product of God’s work, be it in its entirety or in part. By using this word at this point, Peter is reminding his readers that these institutions consist of created beings. So his readers should know that those to whom they submit are finite and fallible, and (in this fallen world) will sadly act shortsightedly and even unjustly (Psalm 10:1–18; Ecclesiastes 5:8). As it is, extra-scriptural literature from Peter’s time records many complaints relating to bureaucracy and exploitation stemming from those in positions of authority and influence in Asia Minor.