The Divine Measuring Stick
Some of the men of Paul's day used a measuring rod by which to test themselves. But it was a foolish standard. Paul says, "Indeed, I do not dare to count or compare myself with certain men who are always recommending themselves. But they do not show good sense, because they do continue measuring themselves with one another and comparing themselves with one another." (2 Cor. 10:12-13 Williams)
I. People now still do this. Often as we try to convert one to the truth, he says, "I am just as good as Joe Blow and he is in the church." True, he may be just as good. But that is not saying much, for Joe Blow is a man and may not be living right at all. He is only a human measuring stick.
As we encourage members to live more consecrated lives, some reply, "I am doing as much as most other members." They, too, look to a human standard. When we urge Christians to give, some immediately point out that they give as much or more than some others do. But this is not the divine measuring rod.
II. Congregations sometimes use this measure. Brethren will say, "We are doing as much as the "A" church across town." But such does not determine the ability of the local church. Or, sometimes people will point to another church and say, "Let's be like that church." We might observe that in various localities, the situations vary. You cannot always compare churches in this way. After all, this is not the divine measuring stick.
III. What is the divine measure? Christ, as revealed in the Scriptures, is the divine standard for every disciple. He left us an example that we should follow His steps. (I Pet. 2:21) Living in harmony with the Bible is the only way to know that your life is right. This measuring rod will never fail. It is not affected by the hobbies of men as they often set forth their opinions as to how men should live.
The church as revealed in the scriptures sets the pattern for churches today. We can look at the divine measuring stick without worrying as to whether we conform to human ideas or not.
We, as individuals and as a congregation, should make sure that our lives and works harmonize with God's word — that is the divine measuring stick. Let us never forget that it is.
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