Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many church planters—men and women with vision in their hearts and a deep desire to see their communities transformed by the gospel. They step into the unknown with courage, conviction, and a clear calling. But despite all the vision, passion, and prayer, many of these church plants don’t make it.
Why?
That’s the question we unpacked in a recent episode of the Next Sunday podcast.
The answer may surprise you—or maybe it won’t if you’ve planted a church yourself.
The #1 reason church plants fail isn’t theological drift or moral failure. It’s not even poor leadership.
The most common reason church plants fail is simple: they run out of money.
The Financial Reality of Church Planting
It’s a hard truth, but one that needs to be acknowledged. According to the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), church plants are especially vulnerable in the first 3–5 years. Many don’t make it past year four. And overwhelmingly, the issue isn’t lack of mission—it’s lack of resources.
Too many church planters launch with a bold vision but an underdeveloped financial plan. That’s not a character flaw. It’s just a gap in preparation—and it’s one we can absolutely address.
The reality is, church planting is expensive. From staffing and rental spaces to marketing, kids’ ministry supplies, sound equipment, and community outreach—none of it is free. And while some churches are blessed with strong initial support, that funding often fades quicker than anticipated.
When that happens, the pressure builds. Leaders burn out. Ministry slows. And sometimes, tragically, doors close.
Vision Alone Isn’t Enough
Vision is critical—it sets the tone and direction. But vision without provision won’t last. Churches don’t just need big dreams; they need sustainable strategies.
If you're planting a church (or coaching someone who is), I want to encourage you with three practical steps:
1. Plan Beyond the Launch
It’s easy to put all your energy into launch day—but what happens in month six? Month eighteen? Year three?
You need a long-range financial plan that grows with your church. Start by building out a two- to three-year budget that accounts for realistic growth, staff development, facility costs, and discipleship investments. Then revisit that budget often.
2. Build a Broader Base of Support
Many church planters rely on one or two major donors or sending churches. That’s great at the start, but it can create vulnerability if those supporters shift.
Diversify your support base early. Build relationships with individuals, churches, and even foundations that believe in your mission. Communicate often and with transparency. Let them know how their support is making a difference—not just to keep them engaged, but to help them celebrate the fruit of their generosity.
3. Talk About Money Early and Often
I get it—talking about money feels awkward. But generosity is discipleship. And if you don’t talk about giving, someone else will—and they may not get it right.
Start teaching on generosity from the very beginning. Help your people understand that giving isn’t about meeting a budget—it’s about responding to God’s invitation to invest in His kingdom.
Don’t wait until there’s a shortfall to talk about money. Build a culture of generosity from day one.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
If this all feels overwhelming, take heart—you’re not alone. The financial side of ministry might not be your passion, but it’s mine. Helping churches build strong, sustainable financial strategies is what I do every day at Generis. I’ve seen what’s possible when vision and generosity work hand in hand.
You don’t have to wing it. There are tools, people, and proven pathways that can help.
A Final Word
Church planting is one of the most courageous callings in ministry. It’s a frontline assignment. And while the statistics can feel discouraging, I believe there’s a way forward.
When church planters are equipped not just with vision but with a sustainable financial strategy, their chances of long-term impact increase dramatically.
We don’t plant churches to survive. We plant them to thrive—for the good of the community and the glory of God.
If you’re in the early stages of planting, or if you’re coaching those who are, I encourage you to listen to the full episode of the Next Sunday podcast here. It’s a conversation I believe every church planter should hear.