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Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close
relationships and friendships that develop. 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, 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 answer to your problem is to join a group.
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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 is one way 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, 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.
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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 will be naturally taken care of through your small group. 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 their group. In addition we
have a number of special support groups that deal with problems like alcoholism,
financial difficulty, abuse, and other needs.
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Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church.
In a small group of 6 to 12, 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.
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The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or “gifts” to
benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately most Christians remain as Sunday
morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily “sit
and listen” situations. As you share and participate in a relaxed small group setting,
you’ll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising. This will help you at work,
at church, and in every other relationship.
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It may be that some of your friends who don’t know the Lord wouldn’t be caught dead
in a church. They have a preconceived idea and just the thought makes them defensive.
But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a
home or office setting. In a small group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions
and express honest doubts without feeling “put on the spot”. When your friend sees
the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make them more receptive to
the Good News.
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Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning
in a large group with a sermon, a choir, and an offering plate! Worship happens
anytime we focus of God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group when praying
or singing together.
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The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for his people to grow and
have their needs met in the church. We will never be able to hire enough professional
pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family. God never intended for it to
be that way!
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Consider these verses:
“They devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching and to the fellowship, to the
breaking of bread, and to prayer. All the believers were together and had everything
in common. Every day they continued to meet together...they broke bread in their
homes and ate together…and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being
saved.” Acts 2:42,44,46-47
“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
“Greet also the church that meets at their house.” Romans 16:5
“Aquilla and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that
meets at their house.” 1 Corinthians 16:19
“Give my greetings...to Nympha and the church in her house.” Colossians 4:15
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