If church revitalisation is like raising the dead (a difficult task by anyone’s standard—except Christ’s!), church planting is like giving birth (easier, perhaps, but still painful and labourious). Still, like childbirth, church planting can be difficult, messy, noisy, and worrying but it is worth it in the long run. In fact, the New Testament argues that there is something of a need for discomfort in church planting.
Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. — James 1:12 (ESV)