To create a culture of discipleship, a church needs great small groups that do the right things, led by committed leaders who do the right things.
Talking Points:
- Small groups allow everyone in a church to receive care-not from one overworked pastor, but from people who know them best. Exodus 18:14,18
- PursueGOD small groups use conversation starters to speak truth in love through the course of a small group season. Ephesians 4:15
- PursueGOD group leaders are not primarily Bible teachers, but disciples who make disciples. Matthew 28:19-20
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Think of the best small group you have been a part of. What made it a great group?
- Read Exodus 18:14,18. Identify what Jethro observed from watching Moses. Why isn’t it sustainable for one pastor to do all the work?
- Have you ever experienced pastoral care in a small group setting? Explain. How did it impact your life?
- Read Ephesians 4:15. What does it mean to speak the truth in love? What does it look like to speak truth in an unloving way? Why can a small group be a better environment for harder conversations?
- What are the relative strengths of a sermon versus a small group discussion? How do the two work together to make disciples?
- What do you think will eventually happen in a small group that is not intentional about making disciples who make disciples?
- What are some topics or series that you think will be good for the group you are starting?
- As you prepare to lead a group, how does it help you to keep in mind your part versus God’s part?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
