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 Small Groups Ministry
“. . . to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”
Ephesians 4:12-13 (NIV)
Purpose of Small Groups
1. To nurture Biblical love
(see John 13:35; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 5:2; 1 John 4:7, 11, 21.)
The Bible is clear – God is love. This divine characteristic isn’t an option, it must characterize everyone who claims to be a Christian. However, merely knowing or talking about love isn’t sufficient. Biblical love is demonstrated love.
2. Facilitate unity and Christian fellowship
(see Acts 4:32; Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:12, 14, 25; Ephesians 4:3, 5, 13; 1 John 1:3, 6, 7)
A genuine, healthy “fellowship” or community of believers is marked by unity (but not necessarily uniformity). Our “oneness” reflects the fact that God is love.
3. Build the Body
(see Romans 14:19; Ephesians 2:19-22; 4:11-16; Colossians 1:10-12, 28; 2:6-7)
Whether the task is to evangelize the lost or disciple believers, the goal is to present all men and women complete (mature) in Christ.
4. Cultivate spiritual gifts
(see Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11)
Ministry is a mutual, shared task. Every believer shares in the responsibility. Therefore, each Christian must discover and exercise his or her spiritual gift or gifts.
Goals of Small Groups
1. To build intimacy between believers in Christ.
2. To provide an ongoing ministry of discipleship for adults (Bible study, prayer & spiritual disciplines)
3. To provide a setting for personal caregiving.
4. To provide accountability for spiritual growth.
5. To provide ministry opportunities, both within the group and outside the group.
6. To provide a setting for intimate worship of God.
7. To provide a means of introducing people to Christ (The Open Chair)
8. To provide a confidential setting for the "safe" sharing of needs.
9. To provide encouragement and strength for Christian living.
10. To provide a small church experience within the larger church setting.
Classification of Groups:
1. Relationship-Oriented
Assimilation groups – to help visitors and new members fit into the church identity & fellowship
Growth groups – to assist Christians in developing their spiritual lives
Recreational groups – to facilitate spending leisure time in a purposeful manner
2. Content-Oriented
Discussion groups – to provide a forum for discussing relevant issues
3. Task-Oriented
Leadership groups – to motivate, equip, and encourage individuals who fit into a designated leadership c category
Service groups – to cooperatively accomplish a designated ministry
Advocacy groups – to undertake a cause and champion its outcome
4. Need-Oriented
Recovery groups; Support groups; Self-Help groups; Group Counseling
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