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In the fourth century, one had to study for up to three years as a catechumen before being baptized. I don't think that qualifies as "easy".

And what exactly was included in the catechism? I can tell you that when I was in the Catholic Church, the vast majority of what was taught was from a Catholic point of view and from a Catholic Bible. Is that really producing disciples of Christ?

As one who serves in what some may call a "pastoral role", I can tell you that protestants are no different, teaching their own denomination's doctrines and theology and not the Bible.

Do you really believe that Christians in "institutional" churches don't practice serious discipleship? Visit an Orthodox church next year during Great Lent a few times. Or, for that matter, try during Advent.

I am not saying that institutional churches are evil or wicked, but neither do they reflect the true nature of the Church because the church, prior to the third century was totally devoid of heirarchial structures and programs to "keep the sheep" from straying.

What I am saying is that God, in spite of, and not because of, institutionalized churches moves because there are people there. But that was/is not the original design or intent of God for His people to confine themselves within the four walls of a church and have paid "clergy" (a disgusting word) and "laymen" (another horrible term), effectively creating a class system among the Body of Christ.

But because we have been taught, or rather force-fed, the doctrines of men, we believe that "church" today is it, when it is not.

All of the comments thus far make me wonder if I had left out the term "emerging church" or asked for names for a "church," I would be reading much different posts.

My intention is NOT to argue over whose church is the "right one," because there's only one that is and it's the Church of Jesus Christ, His universal body. Please, let's not argue whether or not we are members of the Body of Christ, as I believe most of us are, but rather help me with my initial request so that, by God's grace, we can reach as many people with the gospel as possible.

Thanks.

So you don't believe in paid clergy? Or not in specifically-educated clergy? I'm really not attacking here, just asking for clarification, but what are your qualifications from being a pastor?

I can't read New Testament Greek, or Hebrew. I don't have years to spend studying Church history and where doctrine came from. I can't spend twenty hours a week studying a passage. My pastor can do all those things, and does, and then explains it to me. If I had to struggle on my own, or only with other people who know as little about the Bible as I do, how would I ever grow?

And again I'm not attacking, I'd like to understand where you're coming from. It seems odd to me.