Papal authority refers to the power and influence that the Pope holds over the Roman Catholic Church and its members, grounded in the belief that he is the successor of Saint Peter, whom Jesus appointed as the head of his disciples. This authority encompasses doctrinal, moral, and administrative guidance for the church, asserting the Pope's role as a spiritual leader and an important figure in religious matters. Understanding papal authority is crucial for exploring the historical and theological developments within Christianity, especially concerning the division between Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism.
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