I see a family of brothers and sisters in the household of God. Some are elder brothers, but they dont run the house- God alone does that. So by the absence of special leaders, we all become special leaders.
I agree we are all one family in Christ - too often that is forgotten on these threads. However, while, yes, God is the head of house, He isn't home right now, so to speak. As such, the "eldest brothers" need to step up and wear the mantle of "man of the house." I don't believe that when Christ left this Earth He left His house in such arrears, without any authority.
As for the true leadership vs. leadership class question, if the character already exists, why does there have to be an outward indication of ones status then? Why the robes, the titles, the special places in the rituals? If the character is there, thats enough for me.
This is a loaded question, as is the comment about the architechure, and it gets to the heart of all Sacramental Theology. If you want, I can try to get into that can o' worms, but it may be best to save it for another thread.
However, while, yes, God is the head of house, He isn't home right now, so to speak.
I have to disagree. The Holy Spirit is with us- and this point goes to the center of our debate.
Christ was rejected and murdered because He represented a challenge to the present religious ruling class, who were grasping their influential and profitable place in the lives of God's people at all costs.
Today, the Holy Spirit is rejected for much the same reason.