"Your view also contradicts 2 Tim. 3, since it would not be the scripture which was profitable, but only the on-high interpretation of it by the hierarchy. The scripture by itself would be virtually useless."
This isn't even remotely true of Orthodox theology. Such dogma as exists, exists because the People of God have accepted it and lived it out, such doctrines and beliefs as are expressed in the consensus patrum are beliefs of The Church because there is indeed a consensus of understanding and interpretation among the Fathers and those are likewise accepted by the People of God. Time and again in Eastern Christianity hierarchs have espoused heretical doctrines but in the end, the "orthodoxy" of belief in The Church has prevailed. Our hierarchs don't tell us what to believe, The Church does. That's how the Holy Spirit works and has worked in The Church since Pentecost.
Good point. In other words, whether by scripture or by dogma, it is the Church speaking in either case.
This isn't even remotely true of Orthodox theology. Such dogma as exists, exists because the People of God have accepted it and lived it out, ...
Yes, I was speaking much more of the Roman Catholic hierarchy. I see it as claiming and exerting authority despite what the laity may believe. On the L&E thread I posted some statistics (polls) showing the RC Church in disagreement with a majority of the laity on issues such as contraception (overwhelmingly), marriage dissolution, and (I think) clerical celibacy.