I agree that there is more than one road to take in church planting. And the kind of stress one experiences does differ with the “kind” of church one is trying to plant.

In my own case I was attempting to start a kind of modified cell church (a la Ralph Neighbour). We struggled with getting cell groups started, but mostly struggled with the fellow believers (including team members) who at first supported the vision, but in the end really wanted a “real” church. “Real” meaning of course, what they were used to from previous experiences. I for one am grateful I was spared the pressure of a high profile sunday service!

I like your statement that “denominational or mission organizational requirements, training and assessment are great tools”. When we view these things as tools, I think that too can take some of the pressure off, and help us realize that used rightly, they can be an asset to us. Used as club, they can kill. This is, I think, what Bob was rightly trying to warn against.

I wish you all the best as you work to let the light of Jesus shine in and through the community you live in.