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Seven Reasons Not to Miss Small Groups
Seven Reasons Not to Miss Small Groups
Small group pilot meetings just wrapped up this past week. I benefited tremendously! You will too once small groups are rolled out to the whole congregation in the next few weeks.
Here are seven reasons not to miss out:
1. You’ll get to know a small number of brethren well.
You can’t know every member of this congregation, but you can know everyone in your small group well. With a maximum of 14 adults in each group, intimate association is more possible. This closeness cannot be overestimated.
2. You’ll understand the sermon on a more practical level.
During the discussion period, everyone shares their thoughts about putting Sunday’s applications into action. You’ll hear helpful suggestions and stories. You’ll hear unique insights the preacher didn’t mention in the lesson. You’ll get new ideas to help you serve God more effectively.
3. You’ll be strengthened by praying together.
Praying with a small group is intimate. Instead of one person leading the prayer, anyone can pray. (The men and women go into separate rooms). My group’s prayers were touching and I felt uplifted and united with my brethren. So will you!
4. You’ll feel more supported.
We all have struggles we don’t share with the entire congregation. You’ll feel more comfortable sharing them with your group. Those present will listen empathically and encourage you with comforting words and prayers. The atmosphere is one of love, concern, and support.
5. You’ll enjoy contributing.
We all like to be helpful. With 150 members at PSD, you might feel you aren’t contributing much to the work. You won’t feel that way in a small group. You’ll have more opportunities to share your thoughts, give advice, provide hospitality, etc.
6. You’ll help others in need more often.
A portion of each meeting is spent discussing church members in need of encouragement. People agree to write cards, make phone calls, and set up visits. As a result, you’ll likely do more acts of service.
7. You’ll grow in your love for your brethren.
As a result of the previous six benefits, I developed a deeper love for those in my small group. I connected with them in a meaningful way. If you join a small group, so will you!
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” (Romans 12:10-11). “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another”(John 13:34).
