Better Basics The Key to Positive Change

1. The Biblical Mandate Command not suggestion (Matt. 28:19-20) The early church’s response (Acts 2:42) A Jewish pattern (Deut. 31:11-13) Large group worship/small group study

2. The Great commission provides a threefold focus Going=Evangelism Baptizing=Assimilating Teaching=Discipling

3. Maximize the 6 basic principles of healthy growth Process Pyramid Receptivity Homogeneity New Unit Leadership

4. Organize based on stage in life Takes advantage of homogeneity and receptivity Helps you know when it is organized Makes assimilation natural Easier to reorganize

4. Organize based on stage in life Keeps small groups from stagnating It is simple, flexible, and comprehensive Helps with creation of new units Organize based on who you are trying to reach not who you already have

5. Teaching for transformation Aim for the head and the heart Teach the Bible from the Bible Teach with passion Use appropriate method based on lesson and people Practice what you teach—modelling is critical

5. Teaching for transformation Be a team player—about the kingdom, not your class Attempt to give birth to a new class annually Seek to reproduce yourself

5. Teaching for transformation Standardize curriculum in all adult classes Helps with planning Reduces competition and creates a team spirit Helps with creation of new units and adult promotion Easy to explain

5. Teaching for transformation j. Characteristics of good curriculum Biblically sound Open-ended Comprehensive Affordable Lasting value

6. Reaching the lost Begins with leadership Evangelism requires a change of culture Evangelism is not a program of the church We must get out of the building to be effective Help people identify and invite lost friends to church

6. Reaching the lost Simplify training Minister to your community in Jesus’ name Make sure your guest card reflects small group structure Organize each class to follow up on visitors from their age group Schedule regular events for pre-Christians SPLASH your community

7. Assimilating through small groups It must be intentional and strategic Cannot disciple those you fail to assimilate The failure to assimilate will ultimately impact evangelism Adopt a plan of universal enrollment Develop a comprehensive care group ministry

7. Assimilating through small groups Personal contact must be regular Meeting personal needs is biblical 80% are lost in the first 6 months Of those active in 5 years—16% if only attend worship, 83% if attend worship and small group

8. Keeping it going Constantly check to ensure you have Great Commission balance Keep good records Pay attention to your physical surroundings Make sure guests are welcomed and members are cared for Do regular teacher recruitment and training Schedule regular workers’ meetings

8. Keeping it going Promote members on a regular basis Establish and publicize goals Give appropriate recognition Innovate without compromising Be creative in providing space Pray, Pray, and Pray some more