This blog and our podcasts have been a blessing to me, thanks to the insights and engagement from our readers and listeners. I learn so much from your comments on our website, social media, and emails. For example, hundreds of you have shared the decision-making processes behind your departures from a church. While the reasons vary, one theme consistently emerges more frequently than any other:
“The church has grown as much as it will under my leadership.”
But what does that really mean? In what specific areas do pastors see these limitations? I’ve asked this question on numerous occasions, and here are the most common responses:
“The church has grown as much as it will under my leadership.”
Often, a pastor will guide a church through a period of growth—only for that growth to plateau after a season. When the reasons behind the slowdown aren’t clear, the pastor concludes that it’s a personal leadership limitation.
“I am just not a good fit for this church.”
I recently encountered a case where a pastor, who was significantly culturally different from the congregation, felt that those differences made it impossible for him to lead the church any further.
“I’m spending most of my time putting out fires.”
In these situations, ongoing conflicts consume a pastor’s time and energy, leaving little room for proactive leadership. Overwhelmed by constant crises, the pastor ultimately decides it’s time to move on.
“The church has grown too large for my leadership skills.”
Some pastors assert that their churches have outgrown them. For instance, one pastor was comfortable leading a congregation of 150 members. However, within four years, the church had grown to 375, and he felt unable to manage an organization of that scale.
“The church needs to relocate, and I’m not the right person to lead them.”
This reason is often cited when a church faces major transitions, such as building new facilities or expanding into multiple sites.
Many pastors are sincere in their belief that the church has outgrown their leadership. However, I also believe that pastors and church staff can continue to grow and learn. Not every challenge should signal the end of one’s leadership journey.
What do you think about this common rationale for pastors and church staff leaving their churches? Is it always a legitimate reason, or might there be deeper, unspoken factors at play? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
