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The Importance of Small Groups
Through various periods, especially the 1970’s, the Small Group and House Church movements made their impact and contribution to the overall life of the church. For the Christian community however, the existence and importance of meeting in the small group format will never be just another passing phase.
Some leaders would venture to say the small group, rather than the large cathedral is church. That is, the smallgroup/ house church is the grass roots community, the primary form of church.
J.V. Taylor has said, “The essential unit in which the church exists must be small enough to enable all its members to find each other in mutual awareness, yet large enough for them to be an embodiment of the life of the Kingdom, which is a life of restored human-ness in action.”
The early Christians from the beginning met in homes. In 1 Corinthians16:19, Philemon 1-2, and Romans 16:3-5 we read of churches in homes that were known by the names of the householder. The New Testament provides an insight of worship and fellowship happening in intimate gatherings in which members knew each other like members of a family. In 1 Corinthians 14:26ff and Ephesians 5: 18-20 we find a style of worship where all were expected to creatively participate. In 1 Corinthians 12:26 the relationships between members suggests that they know each other personally.
It was not until the end of the third century that churches began to meet in specific church buildings.
It was in meeting together to ‘break-bread,’ Acts 2;46, 20:7 that a continuing sense of what Jesus, the Spirit-filled Messiah, had done when he met with tax collectors and Pharisees was maintained.
Many social indicators today point to a break-down of community. Today the focus on individual freedom means the glue of society has dissolved. Often the church has become enculturated in a form which lacks vital community. An approach to small groups needs to be incorporated into being an essential part of every church programme.
Rev Deane Meatheringham points to two dangers that may need attention. (1) “Some people who resort to the house church/ small group have a problem with authority. This can make the small group an enclave of like-minded rebels. “Wanting to do it my way” is often anti-governing leadership. The matter of authority is an integral aspect of all human relationships including large and small groups
(2) The second danger is that we will view the house church/ small group as the last means (method) to halt the demise of the church. Sadly, the church has hoped in means and methods for too long. We are always prone to play the Holy Spirit instead of obey Him.” Have realistic expectations. Don’t make large numbers a priority.”
First priority
The small Friendship group needs to be seen as the primary experience of faith, nurture and care by the whole congregation, not separate from it. Every person needs to be invited/ expected to join a small group.
Belonging
Rather than just attending a discussion or study group, the real value and sense of ‘belonging’ is important. This is where people are noticed, it’s where they belong to one another, fit in and feel accepted.
Pastoral Care
This does not eliminate the special oversight of the Minister or Elder. Care and comfort will also be expressed corporately by studying and praying together on a regular basis.
Order and Variety
Groups vary in style but common ingredients are important. Singing, roll call, outreach, testimony. mission projects, (eg Letters to prisoners,) barbeque or pizza meal, video and visiting speaker can all be part of the mix, ways of avoiding stagnation. Encouraging an outward, rather than self-focused vision.
Leadership
Each group needs a, mature person recognised and authorised by the Congregation to provide direction The person needs to discern, listen, delegate, offer Biblical insight and lead in prayer. An assistant understudy person may prove helpful.
Good Questions to discuss:
In what way is your church ministering to people’s sense of alienation, helping people feel they belong? How is it building real community? Would a small group based on a sub-culture in your community be an affective outreach? John Stott has said, “The more mixed the congregation is, especially in class and colour, the greater its opportunity to demonstrate the power of Christ.” How can small groups avoid being divisive, homogeneous power groups within a larger church?
Function Well
People come with different personalities. Helping the group to learn how to function is often overlooked. Developing an awareness of the group-dynamic involves educating every participant. Run through the following points with the group once a month as part of an approach to learning together. This can help draw-out quiet people and reign in the ‘talkers.’
SHY? You are important to this group. Try to participate by saying how you feel.
TALKATIVE? Give attention to others. Encourage them to respond by asking simple questions.
LISTEN! Not just to words. Listen to the feelings behind people’s words.
THOUGHTS! Please share yours. Be careful not to ignore God’s
DIRECTION. Help by keeping to the point. Dig into the meaning. Be ready to receive from the leader.
Rev E A. (Ted) Curnow.