Nations1

The 9 Marks e-journal for July/August is about missions. While I am not in 100% agreement over all the authors, there is some really good stuff there.  Here is a quote taken from one of the articles on success titled:

Success

How does the other side of a potential partnership define biblical success? Is it numbers or faithfulness?

Paul’s theology of success is evident in his letter to the Romans (1:16) and Thessalonians (1:5-6; 2:13). He relied on the Holy Spirit and the truth of the gospel for success, not on particular methods or best practices. His was a God-centered ministry and he knew his success depended upon his God. Paul also knew that success depended upon the prayers of the churches to the living and true God (2 Cor. 1:11; 2 Thes. 3:1).

Paul does not advocate new best practices or methods guaranteed to succeed. He doesn’t encourage Timothy to study the approach of these “winners.” Instead, he says, “Continue in what you’ve learned. Persevere in all good work!” (2 Tim. 3:10-14; 1 Tim. 4:16; 2 Tim 3:10-14; cf. Heb 10:35-39).

A biblical doctrine of success will clearly state that faithfulness is success. That does not render accountability, evaluation, and adjustment unnecessary, but it does remind us that our responsibility is to be faithful in our life and doctrine. We should imitate Paul in our ministry (1 Cor. 11:1). Sometimes there was visible fruit and people were converted and churches were planted. Sometimes there wasn’t. Always there was suffering. God is sovereign over the results. Our duty is to be faithful servants.