But wait ... there's more re: wickedness in high places

The phrase "wickedness in high places" comes from Ephesians 6:12 in the King James Version (KJV). Here's the verse:

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV)
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

This verse is part of Paul's letter to the Ephesians where he teaches about the spiritual battle believers face. “High places” refers not to human government or authority in and of itself, but to spiritual realms—evil spiritual forces that influence or operate through worldly systems, authorities, and individuals.

More modern translations phrase it differently for clarity. For example:

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."