Arrogant, cocky, and with more than a little bit of attitude, a South Asian movement leader stood before me. “I’ve seen hundreds of people come to Christ this month and started over 60 new groups,” he declared, bobbing his head side to side. His demeanor made me sad, though I couldn’t deny the fruit he was seeing. It wasn’t the first time I’d seen these kinds of attitudes displayed by a movement leader. Young, apostolically gifted movement leaders need mentors to encourage and train them. They also can speak into issues of arrogance and pride when there is a strong relationship. We all need to check our attitudes and motivations as we pursue DMMs.
Success in Disciple Making Movements can breed pride. Failure to see results can lead to insecurity. Both are unhealthy and ungodly. Keeping a strong grip on our understanding of why we do what we do and of God’s unconditional love for us keep us grounded. This is crucial as we attempt to catalyze (start) movements.
Reminded of Grace
Since I mentioned an arrogant leader above, let me share the other side of the coin as well. His head hung down, and his shoulders drooped. Heaving a great sigh, he finally looked up. I could quickly see the sadness and grief in his eyes. “I’ve tried everything. I did all the steps you told me to do. No one is responding. Maybe I’m not the right person to be trying to do this.”