Why do we need to regroup when it comes to Small Groups? We must be reminded of the ingredients and essential elements for a successful group’s ministry. In the same way, when baking a cake, one must use all the ingredients; one must add these four ingredients that will be listed below. In the same way that football players are reminded in training camp how to block, tackle, play defense, and offense, people need to know of the four elements of a successful small group. If a church can implement these four things in each small group, it will not only be healthier and reach more people, but also make a deeper impact in their community, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among its members.
1. Teach the Bible.
Josh Hunt, a well-known group specialist from yesteryear, said we must teach a halfway decent lesson. Now, before people run out and stone Josh because of what he said, look at his reasoning. In Josh’s opinion, there was more to a small group or Sunday School class than disseminating Biblical information. He saw additional things that needed to be added to this mix. Therefore, in his mind, adding other ingredients would need to be added to create a
successful class.
2. Care for those in the class.
Time must be devoted to caring for each member of the class. The teacher or someone assigned by the teacher should oversee checking up on everyone. Unfortunately, people who miss do not always make the class aware of their reason for missing. Many times, when the Care Person contacts the one who has missed, they find out that something has either happened to the classmate or to someone in the family. On other occasions, some sin or guilt-driven issue may be a reason for missing. The point is that when someone is responsible for caring for the group, the group’s health improves. When no one oversees the care work, no one is cared for, and people fall through the cracks.
3. Fellowship.
Small groups should ensure that time is devoted to gathering and getting to know each other. This usually involves a meal and hanging out. It will be easier to achieve this if the group meets in someone’s home. If the group meets on campus, specific times will need to be set aside away from the building for this purpose. Through these gatherings, lasting friendships are formed, which strengthens the church.
4. Evangelism.
Small groups are great places for people to bring friends and acquaintances. The groups will be small enough so newcomers will not get lost in the crowd. They will also experience the other three elements of a successful group which will lead to their hearing the gospel, trusting in Christ, and growing in Christ. By actively participating in evangelism through small groups, each member can feel empowered and impactful, contributing to the growth and outreach of the church. It is important to remember these four basic elements of a small group ministry. When these ingredients are held up as basic parts of the total package, groups will begin to grow. Without an emphasis on these elements and others that may emerge, the church will move toward an unhealthy state. For more information on small groups, I highly encourage your church to attend our Leadership Training Conference on August 17th from 8:30 AM to 12:45 PM. Our Association wants to help you and your church with an age-group-appropriate small group and special emphasis ministry training that your church could implement. To see the classes offered, click on the QR Code below.
CLICK HERE to register for Leadership Training