Articles by Mentor Network
What Makes Small Groups Systems Effective? (Part 5 of 5)
What Makes Small Groups Systems Effective? (Part 5 of 5)
By Jack S. Hicks
Effective small groups ministries have at least three elements in common:
- 1)A clear purpose or mission for the groups.
- 2)An able and committed person in charge.
- 3)Key players who are well-trained.
Name the purpose(s) through prayer and communication of key players with the congregation. Find the system leader through the discernment of appropriate giftedness and commitment. (Appropriate gifts = leadership, administration, encouragement.)
Explore the universe of methods and resources for training facilitators and move forward with a plan for implementation. Any system for doing small groups which works well will include these elements. Conversely, when a small group or a small groups system crashes and burns, retrace the skid marks to find the huge hole in the road shaped like one or more of these missing elements.
Not that this is magic…pray without ceasing for the grace and mercy of God to shape, bless and empower the people in your small groups ministry. Effective small groups systems fit well into the post-modern world, where the church is currently searching for moorings. Effective small groups systems will provide the most viable means for facilitating authentic spiritual body-life during this age.
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