How we measure

Measurement framework

The 153 collective measurement framework was created to provide a shared language for reporting digital evangelism and discipleship, helping ministries:

  • Understand engagement and spiritual journeys through more meaningful measures
  • Communicate outcomes with greater clarity, integrity, and consistency
  • Learn from one another and strengthen collective impact
  • Identify trends while honoring different ministry models and contexts
Guiding Principles

It's all about transformation in Christ

At its core, 153 collective standard is built on a simple belief: measurement should help us better understand how people encounter Jesus and grow in faith. Everything we measure is shaped by these guiding principles…

Gospel-Centered

Every metric reflects engagement with Scripture or the Gospel—not general inspiration.

People Over Events

The goal is understanding spiritual journeys, not counting isolated actions.

Seeker-Centered

Success is movement toward Christ—not loyalty to a ministry.

Transformation Over Retention

The goal is deeper life with Jesus, not deeper platform engagement.

Key Measures

Understanding Spiritual Journeys

1. VITAL - measure engagement

Event-based measurement

We measure moments of Gospel exposure and interactions.

2. Spiritual Milestones - measure growth

People-based measurement

We measure spiritual practices to understand the seeker's growing faith and transformation.

Engagement

More on VITAL

VITAL helps us measure trackable indicators of users engagement. It measures five types of actions. You can find more details in the Vital White Paper.

Views

Moments when an individual engages with Gospel or scripture content.

Interactions

Active engagement with content through actions like clicking, responding, or participating.

Touchpoints

Contact information provided, opening the door for direct relationship and communication.

Active People

Known individuals who engage 7 or more times, reflecting meaningful spiritual interest and intent.

Loyal People

Individuals who demonstrate growing faith through consistent outward expression and life application.

Growth

More on Spiritual Milestones

These milestones help us understand how people ale growing in faith and being transformed by Jesus. Progress may be self-reported or observed by a ministry volunteer.

Belief

We measure belief across a spectrum of what a person trusts and understands about Jesus. Growth here reflects a foundational shift in identity and worldview that is a necessary part of spiritual transformation.

Bible

Engaging with the Bible reflects a growing faith as Scripture shapes how people think, decide, and live. Growth and consistency indicates submission to seeking God’s truth.

Prayer

Prayer is the practice of relational communion with and dependence on God. As it deepens, it becomes an indicator of transformation, revealing trust, surrender, and spiritual growth.

Faith Community

Participation in spiritual community, namely the local church, reflects a shared faith and mutual encouragement rather than isolated belief. It signals ongoing connection, as individuals both receive and contribute to the spiritual maturity of others.

Baptism

Water baptism is a public declaration of new life in Christ. It represents a decisive change in belief and identity as someone steps into obedience and visible commitment to following Jesus.

Christ-likness

Christ-likeness is a rich indicator of transformation in character, attitude, and action. It reflects an active, maturing faith, as people increasingly embody the life and love of Jesus.

Take Your Next Step

Ready to measure what matters - together?