We Measure Success Differently

April 28, 2024

Companies and organizations measure their success and report it to their stakeholders. How much did we make (or lose)? What was our quarterly growth (or decline)? Did we come in on time and under budget (or is someone getting fired)? The institutional church also has a set of metrics it uses to measure its success. How many people were in worship this week? How much money was collected in the offering last month? How many people did we baptize the previous year? But is that the best way to determine the success of a Jesus Centered Community? Join us for part four of This Is Us, where we will learn that we measure success by our sending capacity rather than our seating capacity.

Passage

Acts 20:24

Principle

We measure success by our ##sending## capacity rather than our ##seating## capacity.

Markers of Godly Success: ##humility##, ##integrity##, and ##perseverance##

Practice

##Live## ##Sent##.

Small Group Questions

Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple or family devotion, or with a small group.

HANGOUT

What are the most common measures of success in America today? Has this changed in the lifetime of your parents? If so, how? What is the most common measure of success in a church in America today? Has this changed from Jesus’ day? If so, how? Today, we will look at how the Apostle Paul became less successful according to the world's standards, even as he accomplished great things for God’s Kingdom.

HEAR

Read Philippians 3:4-9

How did Paul initially define success? What changed, and how did that change alter Paul’s definition?

Read 1 Corinthians 9:1-2 (Written in 56 AD)

What tone is Paul using with the Corinthians? What is he defending?
When have you felt the need to defend yourself or your rights?

Read 1 Corinthians 15:9-11 (Written in 56 AD)

How has Paul’s tone changed from chapter 9?
Why does Paul consider himself unworthy to be called an apostle?

Read Ephesians 3:7-8 (Written in 60-61 AD)

What is the difference between an apostle and a saint? Which is the more exclusive title? In which group does Paul place himself? How does he rank himself among that group?

Read 1 Timothy 1:12-15 (Written in 60-61 AD)

What does Paul’s progression from apostle to saint to sinner say to you? Is Paul suffering from low self-esteem? Is he living a life of shame and regret? Why or why not?
Read John 3:30. Do you share the conviction of this verse? What can you do to live it out this week?

HUDDLE

What three things do you want to be said of you at your funeral? Talk about it, invite accountability, and take time to pray together.

Daily Reading

As you read each passage, look for connections to this week’s sermon and small group discussion. Invite the Holy Spirit to be your teacher as you seek Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Day 1: John 3
Day 2: Acts 20
Day 3: 1 Corinthians 9
Day 4: 1 Corinthians 15
Day 5: Philippians 2
Day 6: Philippians 3
Day 7: 2 Timothy 4

Think Deeper

How do you measure success?
What do you hope will be said of you at your funeral?
How do you think God will measure the success of your life?