In verse 21 Jesus sends the Apostles. The RCC somehow decided to appropriate that for themselves with no indication that an organized hierarchy that would usurp power or “stand in” was intended.
John 20:19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD. 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
Of course we have the Mormons, Muslims, and Catholics who all claim to have “additional revelation” or authority trying to lead the only true “church”. I’ve stayed with God’s written word and “search the scriptures daily, whether those things were so”.
You wrote:
“In verse 21 Jesus sends the Apostles. The RCC somehow decided to appropriate that for themselves with no indication that an organized hierarchy that would usurp power or “stand in” was intended.”
The Apostles were the hierarchy. There was no usurpation. Presbyters and deacons are Biblical too. It is telling that you believe God’s Church is essentially an usurpation.
“Of course we have the Mormons, Muslims, and Catholics who all claim to have “additional revelation” or authority trying to lead the only true “church”.”
So Muslims have a “church” now? The knots anti-Catholics tie themselves into are amazing. Also, Joseph Smith founded the Mormons. Muhammad founded Islam. Christ founded the Catholic Church.
“I’ve stayed with God’s written word and “search the scriptures daily, whether those things were so”.”
No, you merely rely on your interpretations.