All articles by

Tim O'Neil

What does it really take to plant a church? In part two of this series, we unpack five more essential questions that go beyond plans and strategies to focus on character, calling, faith, and the ability to lead and gather a team. These insights will help you to help leaders discern if they’re truly ready for the church planting journey.
When someone senses a call to church planting, the natural response is to dive straight into training and equipping. But before taking that step, the wiser path is to begin with questions rather than advice. Asking the right questions brings clarity, helps potential planters understand what the journey may involve, and reveals whether planting is truly their next step. This
Recent research reveals four key insights: the greatest need is more church planters, raised through disciple-making and leadership pipelines; denominations with dedicated leaders driving planting see the most fruit; no single model works everywhere, but diverse approaches are essential; and multiplication ministries remain an underused but valuable resource. Together, these findings highlight both the challenges and opportunities as we seek
When it comes to church planting in Australia, one size does not fit all. From simple churches and missional communities to regional and multi-site models, different approaches are needed to reach different people. Some denominations formalise their strategies, while others adapt to context and calling - but the common thread is clear: healthy, disciple-making churches come in many forms. The
Which denominations are leading the way in planting new churches across Australia? Recent data reveals that while Pentecostal churches plant at three times the rate of non-Pentecostal churches, some surprising names make the top of the list. The clear takeaway: denominations that prioritise dedicated leaders for church planting see the most growth.
Church planting in Australia is on the rise and the momentum is encouraging. While NCLS research showed an 8% decline in Protestant churches from 2016–2021, new data reveals a 22% increase in church plants in the past year alone. This growth, consistent with denominational surveys, signals a renewed appetite for multiplication across tribes and denominations. Yet, with Exponential Australia’s 2032
The Exponential National Conference: Greater Things to be held on the Gold Coast, August 6–7, 2025 is designed with planters in mind. This is more than an event. It’s a space where church planters can find their tribe, share their story, and realise, “I’m not alone.” We want to fuel the fire God has already lit within them; to inspire,
Church planting takes more than passion - it takes clarity. This article outlines 10 essential questions every church planter needs to wrestle with before launch day. From vision and funding to disciple-making and multiplication, these questions help align your team, sharpen your strategy, and build a strong foundation for a church that lasts. Whether you're planting soon or just exploring
Last week I saw a leader with his team at the Exponential Creating a Movement Culture Workshop in Melbourne. There were three things that I saw that were very impressive ...
For a while we’ve talked about reaching the 84% - those not regularly connected to church. But new research from NCLS suggests the tide may be turning, with encouraging signs of spiritual re-engagement across Australia. Yet with only 2% of churchgoers fitting the biblical definition of a disciple, big questions remain: Are we truly making disciples, or just gathering attendees?