8. Small Groups

1. What are small groups?
2. What goes on in a small group?
3. Why should I be part of a small group?


Small Groups
"Christian brotherhood is not an ideal which we must realize; it is rather a reality created by God in Christ in which we may participate.” (Bonhoeffer, Life Together)


Read Acts 2:42-47. Where are the Christians meeting? What are they doing when they meet?

1. What are small groups?

· Small groups are groups of Christians who meet together as part of the church to build each other up in our faith in the gospel.

· Small groups are not a replacement of the church! They are an important part of the church. Usually a church will have several small groups.

· Small groups enable us to go deeper in our relationships. It’s hard to get to know all 150-200 people in your church really well. It’s a lot easier to know 5-6 other Christians really well.

· Small groups can be Bible Study groups, men’s groups, women’s groups, couples groups, family groups, teen groups, mixed groups, whatever! The important thing is that they are groups of Christians meeting for growth in our relationship with Jesus Christ.


Read 1 Thess 5:12-24. What are some of the things the Bible commands us to do here? How would focusing on a smaller group of people help you do this?

2. What goes on in a small group?

· Small groups are where the rubber meets the road. In small groups you will go through all of life’s ups and downs together. You will share each other’s failures and successes, suffering and achievements. Conflict will most likely arise, but so will unity. Be prepared! This is one of the most excited parts of being a Christian!

· There are essential parts of any small group. The centrality of the Scriptures, prayer, and fellowship should be part of small group life.

· Different small groups approach their time together differently. Some will focus on one aspect of Christianity more than others. For example, some focus more on in-depth study of the Scriptures, others on serving, others on evangelism, etc.


Read Ecclesiastes 4:7-12. What is the drawback of being alone? What is the value of being with others?

3. Why should I be part of a small group?

· Christ wants you to grow, and small groups are one way that can happen. Being part of a small group doesn’t guarantee growth, but it provides us with an opportunity to live out our faith with others who believe the gospel.

· You need your brothers and sisters in Christ! I know that because that is how God made all of us. Some of us are more private, others are more communal, but all of us need people. You need people to encourage you and challenge you, to confront you and comfort you.

· Your brothers and sisters in Christ need you! It’s a two way street. You have something to offer. Your perspective, your gifts, your experiences, your friendship, and even just your presence are important to other people. Please don’t let us down!

· Our goal at First Baptist is to have as close to 100% involvement in small groups as we can. In other words we want everyone involved in a small group. As you become a member we strongly recommend you consider joining one. If it sounds intimidating, step out in faith!