[bornacatholic]

I agree.

However, Jesus gave THEM authority. He didn't give any authority to the 16th century Satan mini-me's.

And, what did Jesus Teach about the public and scandalous sinning of those to whom He DID give authority..

Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to his disciples, Saying: The scribes and the Pharisees have sitten on the chair of Moses. All things therefore whatsoever they shall say to you, observe and do: but according to their works do ye not; for they say, and do not.

* IOW, Obey your prelates...Chosen for you by Jesus, Our Lord and Saviour

[Quester]

However, Jesus gave THEM authority. He didn't give any authority to the 16th century Satan mini-me's.

Jesus granted authority to the Apostles to form the foundation of the Church. No others were given such authority.

Ephesians 2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

The calling of Bishops, Pastors, Deacons, etc. all build upon the foundation that the Apostles laid.

Jesus also instructed His followers to test the fruit ... of those which would claim to have authority over us.

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

On that note ... the Catholic church has some rotten fruit to clean up ... before meeting this standard which Jesus set.