In his January 6 blog post, Alan Danielson writes about Measuring Outcomes: Is it Really the Right Approach? The question Alan poses and discusses is whether we should be focusing on inputs or outcomes. Outcomes are easier to measure, but, as Alan points out, they are in God’s control. Our job is to plant, water, cultivate, etc., but God makes things grow (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).
This is what my new book, Small Group Vital Signs, is all about. My thesis is that healthy things grow and multiply, whether a tree, child, Christ-follower, small group, church, or any other organism or organization. The seven vital signs are inputs. Growth and multiplication are outcomes–fruit. I believe that if you focus on these seven vital inputs that your group will grow–spiritually and numerically–and bear much fruit, fruit that will last.
I wrote Small Group Vital Signs to help you and your group focus on these inputs that will make your group healthy, vibrant, strong. We’re now in the final editing stages and the book will be available at the end of January or beginning of February. you can pre-order it now, if you want, and receive free shipping and handling, but this offer ends soon! Click HERE for more information about the book or to order. By the way, you can also take a FREE online assessment of your group HERE.
By the way, I’m not against measuring outcomes.But I don’t want to spend much time trying to figure out how to precisely measure them, and I don’t want to worry about them. I want to spend my time and energy and focus on what brings results, measure those results, and give glory to God!
I’m trying to do all I can to help small groups become healthier. Imagine what outcomes God will bring about as healthy groups grow and multiply themselves throughout his Kingdom!
