Binary Church Planting

A discussion at small group this past week got me thinking about this . . .

Why is it that so many denominations and church planting networks choose — either as a matter of policy or a matter of “that’s-how-we’ve-always-done-it” — to send church planters out on a 1:1 basis (ie: one planter for one church). It seems to make more biblical — and common — sense to send guys out to plant on a 2:1 basis (at least).

Consider Jesus’ sending of the seventy-two (or the seventy, depending on your translation) to minister. He sent them in pairs. When the Holy Spirit established the church at Antioch, he sent not only Paul, but Barnabas with him. I could go into some Old Testament examples of plural ministry like Jonathan and David, Elisha and Elijah, and others, and I think that those have merit — but honestly, I think those make a weak case. Fact is, though, that the biblical pattern for establishing ministry in the New Testament (at the very least) seems to be a plurality of leadership.

As far as common sense goes, it simply stands to reason that while one man may be extraordinarily gifted, there will still be areas of deficiency that another planter could meet. Additionally, a single church planter lacks the accountability that comes with having another biblically qualified elder planting with him. Sure, he might be “accountable” to his Launch Team/Core Group, but if he’s the sole “boss”, then what does that accountability really mean? Such a man may become arrogant and dictatorial.

(This could also be an argument to show the folly of single-elder church government, as opposed to a plurality of elders, but that’ll wait for another day.)

Don’t get me wrong — having more than one planter doesn’t guarantee success or faithfulness. Additionally, highly effective churches have been planted with only one guy at the helm. It can be done. But should it? Why don’t more denominations and planting networks require a plurality to start a church?

Any thoughts?
(I think it’s money. Actually, I know it’s money in at least one case.)