'The tone of authority with which the letter speaks is noteworthy, especially in the later part (56, 58, etc.): "But if certain persons should be disobedient unto the words spoken by Him through us let them understand that they will entangle themselves in no slight transgression and danger; but we shall be guiltless of this sin" (59). "It may, perhaps, seem strange", writes [distinguished Anglican scholar] Bishop [J.B.] Lightfoot, "to describe this noble remonstrance as the first step towards papal domination. And yet undoubtedly this is the case." (I, 70.)' - http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04012c.htm Picking verses out of context is not useful...
LOL! Physician, heal thyself.
Clement here gave the authority to PRESBYTERS ..not priest, not popes
And Clement IS a presbyter (bishop).
Is not 57 between 56 and 58? Funny I was taught they are... BTW Peter was also an elder which also means presbyter , bishop,overseer.... and anyone that understands the early church KNOWS that the elders were the authority of the church and exercised church discipline ..THAT WAS THE ROLE OF THE OVERSEER
So saying that this letter shows the beginning of authority is only saying something one sees in scripture..and one does not see any pope in the NT church