Nor must it be thought that what is expounded in Encyclical Letters does not of itself demand consent, since in writing such Letters the Popes do not exercise the supreme power of their Teaching Authority. For these matters are taught with the ordinary teaching authority, of which it is true to say: "He who heareth you, heareth me" [Lk 10:16]; and generally what is expounded and inculcated in Encyclical Letters already for other reasons appertains to Catholic doctrine.

(Pope Pius XII, Encyclical Humani Generis, n. 20; underlining added.)

The is a perplexing statement for those not sure whether they must adhere to Francis or not.  Either the above is true or it is not.  If it is true and Francis is Pope we must consent to what he writes in Encyclicals.  It is therefore a good thing to know whether he is Pope or not.  We can know this with the help of all the authoritative docuмents at our fingertips.  If he does not appear to be Catholic we must reject him as Pope and have nothing to do with him.  If he does appear to be Catholic we must consent to all he writes in encyclicals.  If we err in good faith and through no fault of our own on either side for following our informed consciences we will not be condemned for it.  For God Who sees the heart will admire our efforts.  If we shun the responsibility of discerning the true state of the Church and her head (whether it be because we are afraid of the conclusion or any reason of convenience, shunning responsibility in itself would be wrong reason or not) then we will be held accountable.  If we are unable to make such a discernment due to mental limitations and or our state in life or for any other legitimate reason, if there be such, then we do the best we can given our state in life and mental abilities.  

Broad statements suggesting that laypeople should not judge either way on the point or are not obligated to discern the issue to the degree they are able seems to stem from a personal preference (for various types of emotional reasons or attachments, or a misguided understanding of the papacy and the necessity of submitting to the Pope?) rather than Catholic theology.  

If anyone can come up with something authoritative which claims the laity need not concern themselves with whether those who claim to hold ecclesiastical offices above them are Catholic or not or valid or not I would very much like to see it.  

It would seem very strange were this to be the case but I would accept it if there is any sound supporting docuмentation on this, properly understood and with all the proper distinctions of course.