mikeus_maximus wrote: "The NT church was a very simple and yet profound institution."
I agree. However, it's easy to see how church organizations evolved from this simple start. Even in the NT, they assigned different tasks to the members. Not everyone could be a missionary for example.
I don't believe it is inherently evil to have church buildings or pastors. As long as the members follow the Bible and stay focused on Christ, I don't see the harm. The membership, of course, must remain constantly vigilant against heresy.
Can a true believer love God and still attend a formal church service? Of course! Is it OK to meet with other Christians outside of a denomination? Of course. Both, in my opinion, are perfectly acceptable as long as they are not compromising the true faith. Elders and teachers and even music leaders are not unscriptual. I believe I'm biblically correct here.
It's a basic difference in respect for God's word and His divine authority. "I think" or "I don't believe it's inherently evil" is the wrong standard... and puts someone else in His place of authority.