Why 80% of Churches Stay Stuck (and How to Fix It)

Most churches don’t get stuck because leaders aren’t working hard. They get stuck because of three common mistakes—and the good news is you can break free.

August 25, 2025

Why 80% of Churches Stay Stuck (and How to Fix It)

What if the same strategies that got your church here can’t take you there?

After working with hundreds of churches, John Keldi has noticed a clear pattern: about 80% of churches get trapped in cycles that limit their growth. The exciting part? Once you see the mistakes, you can avoid them.

Here are the 3 big ones:

Pastoring Like It’s Still the 2000s — Yesterday’s methods don’t connect the same way today.

Leading in Isolation — Growth slows when leaders go it alone and miss fresh perspectives.

Expecting Change Without Changing — New results require new approaches, starting with leadership.

In This Episode Your Team Will Learn

-The 3 common mistakes that keep most churches stalled

-Why hard work isn’t enough if strategies are outdated

-How small but intentional leadership shifts create new momentum

Discussion Questions For Your Team

(1) Which of the 3 mistakes feels most real in our current season?

(2) Where are we still relying on strategies that no longer deliver results?

(3) Who could we invite in to give us a fresh set of eyes on our challenges?

Most churches aren’t stuck forever—they’re just stuck in patterns. The best news? You can break free. Even one intentional step this week can open the door to fresh momentum for your team and your church.

Let’s lead well,

The Church Staff Huddle Team