Unless I missed something in Sunday School or my Bible is missing a page, Popes are a man thing and not a God thing. Man things aren't perfect and are often wrong - think of all the people who thought the earth was flat, bleeding patients helped get rid of disease, and earth was the center of the universe.  If I'm wrong about Christ, God, etc., when you and I die, we both end up worm food.  If I'm right, it's eternal life (with great weather) and in the meantime, I'm focused on loving people well, being kind, and avoiding being a jerk - all because of what I believe.  Sadly, lots of historical and even modern examples of people twisting Christ's teachings for their own benefit, profit, and power.