Why Metrics Are Important

As a leader, it’s one thing to have a purpose, it’s quite another to know if you are fulfilling it. This is why metrics are important. 

Metrics, simply put, are what you measure. In a work setting, you might measure sales, profits, and customer service. In a church setting, you might measure attendance, new salvations, and tithing. Whatever metrics you choose to measure, they need to help you and your team evaluate whether you are fulfilling your shared purpose.  

When we look at the leadership of Jesus, we see His disciples had metrics to measure their work. We see this in His parting words (Matthew 26:18-20). Jesus’ parting words to His disciples are often referred to as the Great Commission.

“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 26:19-20 (NIV)

The Great Commission can be broken down into three metrics:

1. Discipleship
2. Baptism
3. Obedience.

When we look at the disciple’s leadership in the book of Acts, we see that these were the three metrics they used when they documented their work (Acts 2:41-47).

As Christian leaders, metrics keep us from second-guessing ourselves and our efforts. When we know what to measure, we can confidently know when we are fulfilling our purpose. 

Think about it: What is the purpose of your leadership? Do you have any metrics to evaluate whether you are fulfilling that purpose? 

A Leader Worth Imitating,  Principles 32: Metrics