A dynamic and controversial evangelical megachurch, known for its rapid growth and the controversial leadership of Mark Driscoll.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Evangelicalism
Founder: Mark Driscoll
Founded: 1996
Ended: 2014
Location: Based in Seattle, Washington, with multiple satellite locations
Size: Estimated over 12,000 attendees at its peak
Mars Hill Church was a non-denominational evangelical Christian megachurch established in Seattle, Washington, in 1996 by Mark Driscoll, Lief Moi, and Mike Gunn. From its inception as a home Bible study group, the church quickly grew to 15 locations across 4 U.S. states, becoming a significant presence in the American evangelical landscape. The church was notable not only for its size and reach but also for its innovative use of technology and media to spread its teachings, including a robust online community and the widespread distribution of sermon podcasts, causing it to be ranked highly on various lists of influential churches, noted for its lessons on church growth, innovation, and church planting.
Acts 29 Church Planting Network, an interdenominational network of churches and pastors, was closely associated with Mars Hill and Mark Driscoll. Acts 29 focuses on assessing and equipping church leaders, planting new churches, and rejuvenating declining ones. Though initially tied to Mars Hill, the network distanced itself from the church and Driscoll in 2014 by removing them from its membership.
The leadership of Mars Hill Church, particularly that of Mark Driscoll, was a subject of significant controversy. Allegations of bullying, misogyny, and a culture of fear and control under Driscoll’s leadership led to widespread criticism both within and outside the church community. The church faced particular scrutiny over its handling of dissent, with reports of harsh disciplinary measures against members and leaders who questioned the church’s direction. This culminated in a series of public scandals, including accusations of plagiarism and financial impropriety related to the promotion of Driscoll’s book “Real Marriage,” which purportedly involved manipulating sales figures to achieve a New York Times bestseller status using church funds.
The controversies surrounding Driscoll’s leadership and the church’s internal dynamics eventually led to a decline. In 2014, Driscoll faced a formal complaint from a group of 21 former pastors, accusing him of abusive behavior. Following this, Driscoll resigned from his position. The church, heavily reliant on his leadership, struggled to maintain its unity and direction. In January 2015, it was announced that Mars Hill Church would dissolve, with each of its remaining campuses becoming independent churches.
image via Julie Roys
