The criticisms of the papacy often stem from theological, historical, and doctrinal disagreements. Here are some detailed points that critics have raised regarding perceived errors of the office of the pope:
Papal Supremacy: Papal supremacy contradicts the New Testament's teaching on the priesthood of all believers. No one person or ecclesiastical leader should hold ultimate authority over the church. Not only is this unbiblical but it also leads to the abuse of power.
Infallibility: The doctrine of papal infallibility, defined in the First Vatican Council (1869-1870), states that the pope is preserved from error when proclaiming dogma related to faith and morals. This is not only problematic as it places the pope above scripture and the collective discernment of the church but also heretical for the same reason that it places the pope as more authoritative than God's own word.
Tradition vs. Scripture: The Catholic Church teaches that both Scripture and Tradition are authoritative. Reformed Protestantism argue that this leads to doctrines and practices that are not grounded in the Bible, which is the sole source of authority and our ultimate standard.
Historical Abuses: Throughout history, there have been instances of corruption and moral failures among popes, such as during the Renaissance. These historical abuses undermine the credibility of the papal office.
Religious Universalism: Pope Francis recently stated in September of 2024: “All religions are paths to God. I will use an analogy, they are like different languages that express the divine.” and "There is only one God and each of us has a language, so to speak, in order to arrive at God. Sihk, Muslim, Hindu, Christian. There are different paths. Understand?". The bible clearly teaches that salvation is in Christ alone by faith alone. Jesus stated “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6)
Sources:
The False Teachers: Pope Francis by Tim Challies
Why Don’t Protestants Have a Pope? by Kevin DeYoung
The Pope, Same Sex Blessings, and Protestants by Carl Trueman