by Steve Pike, National Director, AG Church Multiplication Network

Yesterday, I had a conversation that reminded me of a myth that all too often impedes the progress of starting new churches. I’ve actually heard the myth recounted several different ways. Some call it the “Five Mile Rule.” For others it’s the “Twelve Mile Rule.” I’ve even heard a variation called the “Fifty Mile Rule.” The essence of the myth is that somewhere in the official Constitution and Bylaws of the Assemblies of God there is a clause that prohibits a new church from starting up within a certain distance of an existing church. This is simply not true. Such a restriction does not exist in the General Council Constitution and By-laws. The “_________ Mile Rule” is imaginary.

The problem is that this imaginary rule has been repeated so often that a lot of leaders make decisions based on it. A lot of planters decide not to plant in a particular location because they think an existing church has “dibs” on that community. Many pastors of existing churches have appealed to the “rule” to prevent a new church from starting up near them.

In fairness, there are some Districts that do have such guidelines in their official documents… so in those Districts the rule is not imaginary. But, an increasing number of Districts are choosing to line up their official stance on the matter with the posture modeled by the General Council.

And the lack of a mileage guideline should not be construed to mean that churches should be planted without input from churches that already have ministry presence in that community. Leaders of existing churches should be part of the conversation regarding the need for a new church in the community they serve.

The needs and opportunities in America are too great for us to allow them to be hindered by imaginary rules. Before you make a decision about planting or supporting the start up of a new church in your area, make sure you have your facts straight! Too many American lives are at stake to let imaginary rules to hinder the progress of God’s Church!

Don’t hesitate to call your support team at the Church Multiplication Network. We can help  you sort through the maze of organizational guidelines and find the straightest path to fulfilling what God has called  you to do. Our contact number is 800-447-0427. We’re here to help.