Why Small Group Ministries?

It is Biblical Moses followed the counsel of his father-in-law, Jethro, in having small groups of tens (Exodus 18). Jesus started His ministry by calling a small group of twelve disciples (Matthew 4: 18-22). The Early Church grew in numbers although they did not have a big church building. They met from house to house (Acts 2:42-47).

It is Based on the Counsel of the Spirit of Prophecy “The formation of small companies as a basis for Christian effort is a plan that has been presented before me by One who Cannot err. If there is a a large number in the Church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members but for unbelievers also” (Evangelism, 115).

Biblical Goals for Small Group Ministries Foster Biblical Love (John 13:35; 1 Cor. 13:13; Gal. 5:13; Eph. 5:2; 1 John 4:7, 11, 21). Promote Fellowship and Unity (Acts 4:32; Rom. 12:5; 1 Cor. 12:12, 25; Eph. 4:3, 5, 13; 1 John 3, 6-7).

Healing Wisdom Faith Prophecy Knowledge Build the Body (Rom. 14:19; Eph. 2:19-22; 4:11-16; Col. 1:10-12, 28; 2:6-7). Faith Discerning of Spirits Wisdom Nurture Spiritual Gifts (Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor.12:4-11). Working Miracles Healing

Values CORE NEEDED FOR SUCCESSFUL SMALL GROUPS

 The presence of God which makes the groups grow.  Every member is called to minister to others.

Leaders are called to serve.

 Every group reproduces itself.  Groups function as the basic church.  Evangelism flows out of group life.

 There will be clear accountability among members and leader.  Pastor meets with group leaders once a week.  Prayers move the life of the church.  Assistants are developed at every level.

How to Begin  Receive God’s vision on Small Group Ministries.  Decide that Small Group Ministries is God’s plan for the church.  Discuss and obtain permission of the church board.

 Choose pioneers for a pilot group.  Train pioneers in the implementation of Small Group Ministries.  Let the pilot group multiply.

 Have a weekly group meeting for leaders.

Suggested Small Group Meetings Fellowship with those who come early:  Welcome Words  Introduction of guests and get acquainted activity

Worship Thanksgiving: Prayer Singing Praise Reports: Testimonies Expression of appreciation for each other

Intercessory Prayer  A need expressed  Several lead in prayer Discussion of Bible Study  Seek full participation  Seek practical application Closing Prayer

Essential Ingredients  The Senior Pastor needs to be interested and serves as a head coach  The Senior Pastor trains leaders in small groups

 Start Small  Establish Relaxed Atmosphere is Friendship

 Group Covenant Purpose? How long? When?

Small Groups  Leaders’ Meetings  Pastor’s Commitment to Groups  Focus on Evangelism  Church’s Commitment to Small Group Ministries  The Need for Follow-up Program