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| "You are not the Pope, Peter." |
Luther, as always, showed how important it was to address doctrinal issues directly, rather than pussy-foot around and attack opponents ad hominem.
The executives and professors of the Lutheran sects follow the Roman model quite closely, and this toxic brew becomes ever more poisonous with the bitterness concentrating as the numbers evaporate. They call upon their authority based on being there "at the beginning" - even if the founding was only a few years or decades ago.
Paul addressed Peter face-to-face because the issue was the truth of the Gospel, not the papal infallibility of Rocky (as his name would be rendered in the vernacular).
Luther did not have the opportunity to meet everyone face-to-face, so he addressed Rome through various writings. Our Revolution took place the same way, with the Founders and the British Loyalists addressing each other in pamphlets.
Naturally Rome has always said, "How dare anyone question the Throne of St. Peter!" Over the years, the Pope has increased his claims of infallibility and authority, placing Himself (yes, they use the divine pronouns) above any Council of the Church.
The Church of Rome can no longer get away with burning people at the stake, torturing them, and placing them in galleys to serve as slaves rowing the ships. France took care of their Huguenot problem that way - and never recovered.
The more insecure the rule, the greater the braying and posturing of the leaders.
