Over the years, I’ve chatted with a number of pastor friends about small group ministry. Many rightly see the value of small groups, but aren’t really satisfied with how their groups are going. Some sense the need to make changes, but lack clarity about how to help their groups become vibrant discipling communities. I pray that the example found in this blog post can help pastors and churches strengthen their small group ministry in 2024.
Below is a summary of how our church organizes its small group ministry. Each group is led by a trained couple and assisted by “leaders in training.” Our groups are by no means perfect, but we’ve been encouraged by how the Lord used small group ministry to grow our church in community, love, and Christlikeness. We’ve also been excited to see folks with ministry aspirations grow in their ability to lead and disciple others as well.
You can download a copy of this summary as a Word or PDF document.
Small Groups at Community of Grace
Purpose
We believe that healthy discipleship takes place within the context of loving, meaningful, intergenerational relationships in local churches where believers pray for and encourage one another in the pursuit of Christlikeness. Our small groups exist to cultivate these discipling relationships. Our desire is to provide an environment where we can:
- Know, love, and serve one another intentionally
- Encourage one another in the truths of the gospel consistently
- Depend upon the Lord prayerfully
- Meet with God through His Word faithfully
Within our small groups, openness, humility, and transparency are encouraged as we seek to help one another “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (I Pet. 3:18).
Small Group Meetings
Our groups consist of church members who are committed to sharing life and gathering consistently for prayer, Bible study, accountability, and mission. Small groups meetings are typically divided into two parts:
#1. Whole group discussions centered around a book study or an inductive study of Scripture. Group leaders may choose to use the COMA Bible study method to facilitate discussion and help participants understand the meaning and application of God’s Word.
#2. Gender-specific “share, prayer, and care” times where members can deepen their knowledge, love, and care for one another. During this time, members share how the Lord is working in their lives. They confess sin struggles, testify of God’s faithfulness, build one another up in the truths of the gospel, and pray specifically for one another. Groups will also pray for the needs of the church and the missionaries that we support. Members might ask each other the following questions in order to know how to faithfully encourage and pray for one another:
- How is your walk with Christ?
- How has the Lord been working in your life?
- What are you encouraged about? What are you struggling with?
- How can we pray for you?
Meetings typically meet on a weekly basis and last for an hour and a half. Childcare will be provided during the meetings so that families with children can participate.
Occasionally, groups may enjoy a game night, share a meal, or do something informal together. These types of meetings provide a wonderful opportunity for unbelievers to see Christian community in action.
Expectations for Participants
- Consistent church attendance.
- Consistent participation in small group discussion times.
- Willingness to walk in the light.
- Willingness to welcome the discipling ministry of others.
- Transparency and confidentiality.
Joining a Small Group
We will have different times during the year when folks can join a small group located near their home. If you are interested in finding out more about how you can join a group, please contact Pastor Micah.
