8.12. Didn't Jesus say we must obey those who sit on the chair of Moses? Isn’t that an argument for obedience to the current pope?
In Matthew 23:2–3, Christ said,
“The scribes and Pharisees sit on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you: but do not do according to their works.”
Yes, this implies that authority deserves respect when teaching true doctrine, but it also implies that corrupt leaders can still be resisted when they lead others into sin.
Moreover, when Church leaders abandon orthodoxy, they lose divine authority. St. Paul rebuked Peter to his face (Galatians 2:11) when he acted contrary to the Gospel. In the same way, we must not follow men who teach contradictions to the Catholic Faith, even if they claim the Chair of Peter. The Pope is not above the faith—he is its servant and guardian. When he ceases to serve that role, he ceases to speak with Christ’s authority.