Appeals to the idea that "scripture has been corrupted" are often more convenient than convincing. Scripture is clear that the church is more than just a "get together," that certain functions are to be performed "in the household of God" (see 2 Timothy) which include the reading and preaching of Scripture, prayer, offerings, and the sacraments--even discipline, when necessary. To say that this doesn't happen perfectly everywhere and by everyone--and therefore the entire concept must be jettisoned--is to be unfaithful to Scripture on the other side.
Our heavenly Father didn't kick off the church in Acts and then leave to our own devices. He has been superintending our growth and maturity ever since--through various controversies we have clarified what we believe (according to Scriptures). He has given us fathers and brothers in the faith who were of great help not only to their contemporaries, but to all succeeding generations as well. He gave them to "the church"--through all time. It is immature to remake the church de novo every generation or to try to stay in "kindergarten" by returning to the first century church--we've grown up a lot since then and, I pray, will continue to grow until "all reach maturity." Jesus didn't mean in that passage "you will not have any leaders" but that "this is the *kind* of leaders you must be in my kingdom" -- which is why our chief pastor-teachers are called "Minister" -- which means, servant. That the early church was led by a plurality of elders--and that this was prescriptive, not merely descriptive--is also clear. Paul commanded that elders be ordained in every city. They keep watch over the people, and the teaching--and even settle disputes between believers (instead of going before the courts of the heathen).
I know, I konw...we're not going to agree. 🙂 We've had similar back-and-forths on other matters. But I hope you'll consider the depth and richness that has come down to us through the faithful channels of Christ's church--specifically, those that judge everything according to Scripture (i.e., Western, Protestant, Reformed, and Presbyterian). 😉 I lived for a very, very long time in the "No creed but Christ!" and "Just me and Jesus" and "red-letters only!" kind of "churches". There is more--far more--and it is deep, rich, and for our good...
