Why We Believe in Small Groups
February 28th, 2009Inevitably, whenever a church begins a small group ministry, someone will object to its biblical validity. Since small groups go against traditions that we have established (Sunday evening services, for instance), we assume it is unscriptural.
Whenever I start a church endeavor, the first thing I do is look for the biblical validity for the effort. If I cannot find it, I move on to other things. However, I appreciate Bill Hybels’ sentiment, ”If it is in the word it should be in the world.” God’s ways are far superior to ours. What is the biblical foundation for establishing a ministry of Small Groups within a congregation? Consider the following biblical examples for Small Group Ministry.
- Small Groups are a way to nurture and care for each other. (Acts 2:44-46; 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12; 1 Peter 5:1-5)
- Small Groups were Jesus’ primary means of training his 12 disciples. (Matthew 17:1; Mark 3:13-14)
- Small Groups were part of the first century church. (Acts 2:42-47; 5:42; 20:20)
- Small Groups provide an effective environment for instruction, encouragement, prayer support, and accountability. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; 1 Corinthians 12:24-26; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 10:24- 25; James 5:16)
- Small Groups promote spiritual multiplication (2 Timothy 2:2; Exodus 18:13-27)
Keep The Light Burning!
Perry Greene
