Reminders on what
makes for a small group in good shape.
Why do small groups?
- · It is through the Bible that God speaks to us personally and powerfully so that we can know Him and his purposes for His people.
- · The small group provides a small-scale community that provides an opportunity where we engage with Gold in His Word and where each one sharpens another’s understanding through discussion.
- · Community: we do not only belong to God but also to one another. The small group gives opportunity to care for one another.
Here are some characteristics of a
group in good shape.
SHARED
INTENTIONALITY
- · We enjoy one another’s company – that’s for sure. But there’s more to this than being a social event.
- · We want to grow in Christian discipleship.
- · We want to be helped in our understanding of God’s Word.
- · We want our thoughts, feelings, life-patterns to be molded and trained by what we learn.
SHARED
TRUST
- · There’s an atmosphere of trust and respect.
- · Authentic honesty.
- · Where anyone can ask any question, offer a viewpoint without fear of being jumped upon.
- · Participation is encouraged with an appreciation for one another and graciousness towards one another even in disagreement.
SHARED
COMMITMENT
- · A small group in good shape will be marked by a commitment to look out for one another and care for one another in Christian love.
- · A shared commitment to working together to understand and apply God’s Word, by the Spirit, and do it together in love.
- · A high level of participation and engagement is so good!
