[CynicalBear]

>> “If he refuses to listen to the church, treat him as a pagan or tax collector.” —Jesus<<

How interesting that you quote a passage from Romans 16 but neglect to address who Paul is writing to.

Romans 16:5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well-beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.

He was advising the local church “that is in their house”, not some centrally organized hierarchy. The RCC routinely uses those types of half truths and deceptive practices to retain control and superiority over those who fail to study the word for themselves.

[smvoice]

Three important questions to ask before diving into the Scripture pool:

1. WHO WROTE IT?

2. WHO WAS IT WRITTEN TO?

3. WHAT DOES IT SAY?

If the first two aren't answered FIRST, then the third one is almost guaranteed to confuse.