Hard Questions for Scale

Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you...?

– II Corinthians 11:7

Paul is reflecting deeply and addressing a group of people he has lovingly led—the church at Corinth. He chose not to ask them to support him financially and now wonders if that was a mistake. The Corinthians are a rather motley crew of believers, still wrestling with a host of unresolved personal and corporate issues. They have grown, but not at a level consistent with the rich teaching and love they received from Paul. He has warned them to “receive not the grace of God in vain,” and encouraged them to stand firm against false prophets who simply “play the people” for their own gain. He instructed them to give generously to others, but chose not to request their help for himself. And now, as we see in II Corinthians 11:7, he wonders about that decision. Paul ponders if his reluctance to accept support is part of the reason why the Corinthian church has not flourished as it could have.

Paul’s question is not simply about Paul. Instead, he is deeply interested in the spiritual growth of the people and the expansion of God's Church. The hard question he is asking is meant to help the group press through the hard barriers of personal and corporate spiritual growth. After all, that’s the calling he has embraced. He is, as it were, partnering with God in scaling the Kingdom.

Leaders ask the hard questions because hard questions let them scale—helping others grow in faith and character in a way that honors Christ. Paul was not afraid to ask himself the tough questions, and neither should we be. Years ago, I remember leading a small Bible study where I did everything myself—preparing the lesson, arranging the chairs, even bringing the snacks. I thought I was serving selflessly, but I realized later I was robbing others of the joy and growth that comes from serving together. Sometimes, in our effort to spare others, we hinder both their growth and, consequently, the capacity of our organizations.

Beginning with yourself, what questions must you ask to help you and your group or organization grow? Here are four questions to consider as you think about how to scale:

1. How have my experiences as a follower shaped my decisions as a leader?

2. What—and who—am I willing to let go of in order to see true growth?

3. How will I ensure that my care for others outweighs my worry about their opinions of me?

4. What truths must I communicate—no matter the cost—so the team can grow?

Don’t rush the process. Take your time and prayerfully answer these questions. Then, when the Lord gives you clarity, move forward quickly—with both truth and kindness.