Creating Community Sample

Why Small Groups?

Our personal experience being in a small group was one of the most compelling reasons we chose to pursue a small-group strategy at our church. Even though many at the church were more familiar with a Sunday school model, we emphasized small groups because of the authenticity, depth, encouragement, and life change we knew they could bring.

What we soon realized is that sustained spiritual growth is not well nurtured by an environment where people simply sit in rows listening to messages in complete anonymity. Sustained growth takes place where people are personally challenged and encouraged in their relationships with God and others. 

Small groups also allow us to share leadership and care responsibilities with the people who are meaningfully connected to others. We have found that people are naturally cared for best by those who know them best—those with whom they are walking through life. 

As we involve more people in leadership, it enables us to utilize a broader range of spiritual gifts. Within each group, those with hospitality gifts can host, those with mercy gifts can coordinate care, and those with leadership and pastoral gifts can lead and shepherd the group. 

We see one of the earliest examples of this strategy in Exodus 18, where Moses was serving as an overworked and under-appreciated judge for the people. Scripture says that when his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing, he confronted him. You can read the story in Exodus 18:17-23….

Wow. Wise words from the first recorded organizational consultant. Select capable people, train them, empower them, focus your efforts through them, and then experience a longer, more enjoyable life. A clear and effective strategy for ministry leaders. 

We’ve also found small groups to be more effective places for people to experience authentic community. A home environment is certainly warmer than a classroom setting, and the size of the group ensures that no one slips through the cracks. 

Many factors support the value of small groups in churches of all sizes. We have found that the small-group system has the potential to be the most effective in helping us accomplish our goal of inspiring people to follow Jesus. 

What are your top five reasons for being involved in a small group or wanting to lead a small group? What reason is most compelling to you?