Are you interested in Small Group ministry, but would like to know more about its purpose and how to be a good leader? Read on for an outline of the who, what, and why for starting a small group!
Why Small Groups? Because Life IS Better Connected!
God created us to be in relationship with one and other.
Small group provides an environment where life change can occur.
Small group is a safe place for fellowship, prayer, studying God’s Word, and accountability.
Small group helps us grow our personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Being in community on a small scale provides comfort on the larger, corporate scale.
Why YOU should consider hosting or leading a small group
1 Corinthians 3:6 says some will plant seeds, others will water, but God makes the seeds grow. Churches NEED more people to plant and water.
Hosting or leading a small group gives you the privilege of serving the church and the members in your group in a meaningful way.
The rewards of leading a small group are great!
Understanding your role as a small group leader – what qualities are needed?
The small group leader’s role is to provide vision, to direct, and to support the group.
We encourage growth in 3 areas:
Growth with God
Growth in our community with other believers
Growth in our influence on others
The small group leader must have a desire to be in community.
He/She must be in a personal relationship with Christ.
The small group leader should believe that the Bible is our final authority in faith.
The leader should have the time, emotional capacity, and the moral discernment to lead.
What are the expectations of a Small Group Leader?
Facilitate – don’t teach….monitor and promote participation with your members.
Commit to your growth as a small group leader – read blogs, listen to podcasts, subscribe to newsletters that speak to small group development.
Identify an apprentice or “helper” to lead with you – this is key to staying fresh. Have your helper take on administrative tasks, take turns hosting, and share in facilitating.
Getting Started!
Recruiting members – promote through the church and through personal connections.
Establish location – keep in mind that location can be SO important.
Establish day & time.
What is the overlying theme of the group – if any?
Discuss group covenant – confidential, commitment to attending regularly, term of the group etc.
View a video of a 40-minute webinar presenting this information below:
