What the Bible says about Overextending Ourselves
(From Forerunner Commentary)
In modern-day English, without our measure means "beyond our province," "beyond our territory," or "beyond our sphere [of influence]." A province is the equivalent of a state, and it can even be a nation. It is an area, a sphere of influence. The New King James renders this:
We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us—a sphere which especially includes you. For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ. . . .
John W. Ritenbaugh
Unity (Part 2): God's Pattern of Leadership