It’s not always easy to know when it’s time to plant a church. It’s a difficult journey, but one that’s well worth it when God calls you to start a house of worship.
If you’re simply wanting to start a new church because you don’t get along with someone at your current church, it might not be the right time. This is how so many churches start, but are never able to grow.
Instead, take the time to truly consider if you’re ready for such an endeavor. When the time is right, you’ll be able to handle any challenges that come your way thanks to God and the support of the people around you.
Determine If You’re A Church Planter
First of all, determine if you’re cut out to be a church planter. Don’t worry if you’re not. It takes a special kind of person. In fact, many pastors aren’t even great at this. A few signs to look for include:
- You’re a natural starter, especially when it comes to ministry
- You’re a good leader and trainer
- Your church and/or mentors agree it’s time for you to plant a church
- You’re not easily discouraged
Remember, this is sometimes a difficult journey. It’s only the right time if you’re prepared emotionally to handle all that’s involved.
The Area Needs Your Type Of Church
Think carefully about the area you’re wanting to plant a church in. Are there many unchurched people looking for the type of church you’re envisioning? For instance, if the area is growing with a younger generation, but churches aren’t changing to meet their needs, it may be time for a new church.
Planting a new church to accommodate the changing needs of millennials and younger members is a great way to reach that audience without losing older members. After all, a church with a younger pastor and more modern worship music might not sit well with the Baby Boomer generation, but Gen X and Y might love it.
God Is Calling You
This is one of those signs that only you know. If you’re meant to plant a church, God will guide you. You’ll feel true desire and passion to plant a new church for the right reasons. It may be difficult to help others understand this calling, but you’ll feel it in your heart and soul.
Your Vision Is Clear
Wanting to plant a church isn’t enough. It’s kind of like saying you want to lose weight, but having no plans for how to actually lose the weight. You need a clear vision and timeline. Think of it as any other goal. You need to create a step-by-step plan for what you’re envisioning and how you plan to make it happen. When your vision is clear, the time is likely right.
Everything’s Financially Ready
If you’re not ready financially, it’s not the right time to plant a church. In fact, it could just lead the church to failure before it’s even gotten its first members. It takes money to build a new church or lease a building. You need money for permits, furniture, decor, staff and more. Part of your vision should include ways on how to get the financial resources you need, such as raising money and getting loans.
People Are Ready To Support It
Finally, you’ll know you’re ready to plant a church if you have a dedicated group of people to support the project. Odds are, you’ll have a mixture of members from your current church, who are looking for the types of changes you’re proposing, and the unchurched or lost souls.
Until you have at least a small church family built up, it’s not quite time. These are the people who’ll help you throughout the process. They’ll also help to market the new church and bring in new members. God will guide you to the right people so you don’t have to do it all alone.
When you’re planting a new church, ensure you create a church website to help bring in more new members.
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