June 09, 2025

Four Common Reasons Most Churches Aren’t Breakout Churches

25 minutes

What stops a church from having a breakout? Thom and Sam discuss four primary reasons they often see in their consultations and research.

Lack of leadership development. Most pastors have little training or background in leadership. But they are expected to lead a church. Some may have extensive theological and biblical training, but they are weak in leadership. Aaron had to tell Moses that his leadership approach was all wrong. Moses was headed for a leadership disaster.

Unbiblical understanding of church membership. Basically, an unbiblical understanding of church membership is self-centered. Members have an attitude that the church exists for “me” and “my” preferences.

Unclear purpose. Though it may seem counterintuitive, many church members do not know the clear purpose or purposes of their church.

Lack of outward focus. The church does not have an ongoing evangelism emphasis, and, as a result, the culture of the church moves inward.

Resources:

Upward Running

NLT Large Print Pew Bible

Church Connect

Tyndale House Publishers

Church Growth Services: Get your free campaign capacity analysis!

“Breakout Churches” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

“High Expectations: The Remarkable Secret for Keeping People in Your Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

“Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples” by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger (affiliate link)

Invite Your One

Church Answers Silver Membership

FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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Pastors, if you are looking for the perfect pew Bible to serve your congregation, the NLT Large Print Pew Bible is a fantastic choice!

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By Thom Rainer

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