Christianity began with one man who developed close
relationships with 12, who then proceeded to build a church through reaching
others and so forth, and so forth (as an aside, we see in Acts 2:46 that small groups were there since the beginning!!). The ripple effect is real, and if it
wasn’t for the ministries and sacrifice of those in the past who have gone
before us, it is quite possible that you or I may not have come to know the
love of Jesus Christ. Here are just a few areas where a small group ministry at your church can make a difference:
Members discover that they are the answer
Small groups break down the myth that more centralized pastoral leadership is the answer. Small groups help the group members come to the realization that the church’s needs are real, that those needs are tangible, and that they can be the ones to help fill such needs. As small groups become an extension of the church’s ability to provide pastoral care, adults learn how to become self-feeders and can help discover/grow their spiritual gifts.
Small groups break down the myth that more centralized pastoral leadership is the answer. Small groups help the group members come to the realization that the church’s needs are real, that those needs are tangible, and that they can be the ones to help fill such needs. As small groups become an extension of the church’s ability to provide pastoral care, adults learn how to become self-feeders and can help discover/grow their spiritual gifts.
Families are Transformed
I remember being a part of a men’s small group for a few years and I had the
opportunity to see the incredible spiritual growth of one man in particular.
When the group began to meet, he would express his viewpoint that pornography
was acceptable and that high tension/conflict with his wife was a natural part
of his marriage. Over the span of two years, I was able to witness a marvelous
transition in his speech, how he spoke about his wife, how he repented from
pornography, and how he would make efforts to be a spiritual leader for his
household and encourage the members of his family. This is just one example
where one man in one group within one group of guys learned what it meant to
live his life for Christ. If your church has many small groups, imagine
how many lives and families are being impacted!
Tomorrow’s small groups come to fruition
For a small group ministry to grow over time, identifying future upcoming leaders is key. Small groups allow for a small group leader to develop relationships with those in their group. Through the span of the group, it may seem apparent that one or more of your members may exhibit signs of leadership within elements of their communication, hospitality, facilitating, or other areas. It is possible you may have a future small group leader in your group today!
This blog has a focus on small groups and youth ministry. Join us for the journey by subscribing! Please share this post if you felt this was a blessing to your ministry.
Follow on Twitter @SeanBuono
For a small group ministry to grow over time, identifying future upcoming leaders is key. Small groups allow for a small group leader to develop relationships with those in their group. Through the span of the group, it may seem apparent that one or more of your members may exhibit signs of leadership within elements of their communication, hospitality, facilitating, or other areas. It is possible you may have a future small group leader in your group today!
This blog has a focus on small groups and youth ministry. Join us for the journey by subscribing! Please share this post if you felt this was a blessing to your ministry.
Follow on Twitter @SeanBuono
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