10 Hard Truths About Church Planting (That Nobody Tells You)
Planting a church is a grind. It’s a journey that will stretch you, humble you, and force you to grow in ways you never expected. But if you walk into it with the mindset of a farmer—ready to put in the work, embrace the process, and trust the harvest will come—you’ll be built for the long haul.
I’ve planted multiple churches, worked with church planters, and seen the highs and lows up close. A lot of folks get into church planting with big dreams but not enough raw truth.
So, let’s talk about 10 hard truths you need to know before you step into this calling.
1. Not Everyone Gets Funded
Comparison will kill you in this game.
You’ll see another church getting massive funding from networks, denominations, or major donors, and you’ll wonder, Why not me? But listen—not everyone gets the same level of funding.
Some folks have multiple streams of support, while others are out here grinding for every dollar. Instead of counting other people’s pockets, cast your vision, do the work, and trust God for provision. Stay in your lane and move with faith.
2. Planters Only Make Some of Their Own Rules
Many folks plant churches because they got beef with their old church.
They’re convinced “I can do it better.” While you do get to shape certain aspects of your worship style, discipleship approach, and culture, you don’t get to rewrite what the church is.
The church has biblical structures, spiritual responsibilities, and foundational principles you have to work within. If you think you can just do whatever you want, reality is going to hit hard.
3. It Takes Heart to Start, But Resolve to Keep Going
Starting a church takes passion. But keeping it going?
That takes grit.
It’s like marriage, there’s excitement at the beginning, but real love is proven in the trenches. Church planting isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. When things get tough (and they will), you’ll need endurance, perseverance, and the kind of faith that doesn’t quit.
4. You Will Not Be an Overnight Success (Maybe Ever)
Forget the church growth fairytales. You see the Outreach Magazine lists, the Instagram posts of packed services, and the overnight megachurch stories. What you don’t see?
Years of groundwork
A deep well of experience
Strong financial backing
A dedicated team doing unseen labor
Most churches don’t blow up overnight—and some never do. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. Faithfulness > Fame. Stay focused on fruitfulness, not just numbers.
5. Fundraising Works, But You Gotta Grind for It
I’ve heard planters complain, Man, I put my vision out there, and nobody gave. One email ain’t gonna cut it.
Fundraising is a full-time job. You have to:
✔️ Learn how to follow up
✔️ Speak in a way that resonates with donors
✔️ Show them the impact of their investment
✔️ Be persistent without being pushy
If you’re too proud to fundraise, you’ll struggle. It works, but you have to work it.
6. Where You Plant Matters
Planting in the inner city? Resources will be tight.
Planting in a growing suburb? Money and people flow easier.
That’s just the reality.
It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plant where God calls you, but be aware of the financial and strategic challenges. Don’t get bitter if others don’t immediately support your vision.
You’ll have to educate people on why your mission matters.
7. You May Need to Let Go of Your Dream Outcome
Got big dreams? 2,000 people in three years, a self-sustaining budget, and a dope staff. But listen, your plan and God’s plan might not look the same.
Imma say the F word. You have to be FLEXIBLE.
Some of the best things God does won’t be on your original vision board.
If you hold on too tightly to what you thought should happen, you’ll miss what God is actually doing.
8. Church Planting is NOT Fun
If you think church planting is all exciting services and feel-good moments, you’re in for a rude awakening.
It’s tough. It’s exhausting. It’s spiritual warfare.
But if you approach it like a farmer, knowing the harvest takes time, you’ll be built for the journey.
Keep your eyes on the bigger picture: souls saved, lives changed, cities impacted.
9. You MUST Do Marketing
Some pastors hate this one. “I just want to preach the gospel!”
Cool, but if nobody knows your church exists, how are they supposed to show up? You have to get the word out.
Get on social media
Build a website that actually works
Create content that connects
Get out in the community and talk to people
This isn’t about gimmicks fam. It’s about making sure the people who need your church can find it.
10. You Become a Planter By Planting
Nobody is a church planter just because they decide to be one. You become a church planter by actually planting a church.
And the biggest work God will do? It won’t just be in your church—it’ll be in YOU.
So if you feel called, step out and start. You’ll learn, you’ll grow, and by God’s grace, you’ll make it.
I’m Out Ya Way
Church planting isn’t for the faint of heart.
But if this is your calling, God will equip you.
Drop a comment below. What’s been the hardest part of church planting for you? And if you want more insights, hit me up. Let’s build something real.
