Small Groups @ First Church

Eight Reasons to Join a Small Group

Enjoy this article, and note that to the left, under the main "Small Groups" link, you can find a lot more great information about Small Groups at First Church.

1. You will understand the Bible better in a small group.
If you´ve ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and wanted to stop that person and say, "But what about...?" or "I don´t understand," then a small group is for you! Preaching and teaching are one way forms of communication. You listen while the speaker speaks. It´s fine for imparting knowledge but not as effective for personal application as a small group. In a small group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion of the text/topic, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own personal situations and that happens best in small groups.

2. You will begin to really feel like part of God´s family.
Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently telephone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You´ll discover that your needs and problems are not unique ~ we´re all in the same boat. It helps to know that others are facing the same dIfficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process.

Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used to describe our relationship to other believers. We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another´s burdens, and build up one another. The only way you can obey these commands is in a small group! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. If you´re lonely, the solution to your problem is to join a group.

3. Prayer will become more meaningful to you.
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group of 3, 5, 6 or 10 however, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you´ll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and we find answers to the needs in our lives.

4. You will be able to handle stress and pressure better.
Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You´ll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you.

When someone loses a job, or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter - these are practical needs that can easily and naturally be taken care of through your small group. Your group can coordinate the sharing of hot meals to be brought in when your family is in need. Many people in our church could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn’t been for the support of other brothers and sisters in Christ. Small Groups provide that kind of supportive network.

5. You will have a natural way to share Christ with friends, family and coworkers.
Some of your friends who don’t know the Lord may never be caught dead in a church. They’ve got preconceived ideas and just the thought makes them defensive. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion among friends in a home. In a small group your friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot". When they experience the love, warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him more receptive to the Good News!

6. You will develop skills you never knew you had!
The Bible teaches that every believer receives "spiritual gifts" to benefit others in the church. Unfortunately many Christians remain Sunday morning spectators all their lives because Sunday mornings are primarily "sit and listen" situations. As you participate in a small group, you’ll grow and discover gifts you never knew you had! And your confidence and self-esteem will grow. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship in your life.

7. Your understanding of worship will grow deeper.
Some believers mistakenly think that worship can only happens on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a praise team, and an offering plate! Worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group – praying, singing or sharing in communion together.

8. You will experience what the early church experienced!
The book of Acts is clear about how God intends for His people to grow and have their needs met. We’ll never be able to hire enough pastors to meet all the individual needs of the First Church family. God never intended for it to be that way!

Consider these verses:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship… they broke bread in their homes and ate together... and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42, 46-47

"Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is the Christ." Acts 5:42

"Aquilla and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord and so does the church that meets at their house." I Cor. 16: 19

I am excited about the awesome potential of small groups! Small Groups provide these eight benefits that no believer can afford to pass up! If you haven’t already talked to Pastor Brad about small groups, why not do it right now? pastorbrad@aol.com