[FJ290]

Where in the New Testament, is "priest" related as an office of the church? (Instead, the Holy Word teaches that all Christians are priests, under our High Priest and Lamb of God. Period.)

Where is the title Reverend? Why does St. Paul call himself a spiritual Father? Do you call your dad Father? Why do Protestants have teachers in Bible Studies? Why do you listen to your Pastors?

You misunderstand the role of the Pope too. It is not to exalt himself over others. It is to be a servant to the servants of God. He does have a very important role as protector of the flock on the earth and the Christian faith.

[Petronski]

I believe the point of that passage is an admonition against considering any earthly authority as being in a position like that of God, for no earthly authority can compare.

[unspun]

Your questions seem to ignore the question: why did Jesus say what He clearly mandated in Matthew 23? He was clearly talking about granting spiritual authority other than the authority of Christ, and what Christ confers to all.

Paul never claimed spiritual superiority, which is what is attributed to "priests" and the "primate" and as Quix points out, are all too attributed to clergy among other fellowships.

The fact that some have special gifts and some have offices in the Church does nothing to grant any of us any greater weight on the scale. Rather there are sternly limited roles to play in a scheme where all are to be accountable to all else, as equals at the foot of the Throne of God.