Pilots can make maintenance deferrals with dispatcher concurrence and continue operations.

The line is pretty easy to see. Pilots can not use tools. Pilots can not be forced into using abnormal checklists. Supplemental and expanded checklists are OK.

Master MEL's are created by the manufacturer. The FAA signs off on the MEL.

The Captain is the last guarantor of airworthiness and safety of flight. If you are the Captain and don't want to do it, don't. ... If you are the first officer, raise your concern, then do your job.