Jesse Reimers

In Chapter 2 of The Choice , the authors explore the three temptations every pastor faces: the temptation to find our worth in success , the temptation to control outcomes , and the temptation to seek glory and fame . These temptations, while not new, are subtle and insidious. As pastors of small churches, you may feel the weight of these temptations more acutely, as pressures to achieve or conform to expectations are constant. The Temptations We Face: The Temptation to Find Worth in Success: It’s easy to tie our sense of identity and value to the outward signs of success in ministry—church size, influence, and recognition. But the authors remind us that our worth is found in Christ alone, not in the size of our ministry. Ministry success, as we learned last week, is not about numbers but about Kingdom outcomes. The Temptation to Control Outcomes: Pastors are often tempted to take matters into their own hands, thinking that only by controlling everything can they ensure success. But,...

Ministry in small churches often involves a complex web of roles, challenges, and responsibilities. As a pastor, it's easy to find yourself overwhelmed by the demands of leadership and the high expectations that come with it. But how do we define success in ministry? Is it based on numbers, programs, or influence? In their book The Choice: The Christ-Centered Pursuit of Kingdom Outcomes , Gary Hoag, Scott Rodin, and Wesley Willmer present a powerful and challenging message about success in ministry. This week, we dive into Chapter 1: " How Do We Define and Measure Success? " and lay the foundation for a series that explores the temptations, challenges, and realities that every pastor faces as they lead in pursuit of Kingdom outcomes.  D efining Success: A Shift from Worldly Standards In the opening chapter of The Choice , the authors ask us to reconsider how we measure success in ministry. The world often defines success by the metrics of growth, influence, and visibility...