Is Your Job Too Hard for the Wrong Reason?
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. – Matthew 11:28-29 NIV You’ve read these words countless times. You have heard multiple sermons on these verses. […]
When More is Not Better
I recently asked on Small Group Network’s Facebook page, “What is the biggest challenge you are facing in your small group ministry?” A friend replied, “A big challenge is serving in a church that does small groups but also wants to do a million other discipleship ministries/ venues simultaneously…” A common temptation in ministry is […]
5 Encouragements from a Fellow Small Group Ministry Struggler
5 Encouragements from a Fellow Small Group Ministry Struggler By Michael C. Mack As someone who has been a small group and discipleship ministry leader—in small to mega churches, in churches just starting groups to those with a settled program—I’m familiar with some of the struggles you face: Listless leaders: Someone accurately described the job […]
Small Groups vs Support Groups: What’s the Difference? Part 1 [Podcast]
[podcast src=”https://html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/4593714/height/26/theme/standard-mini/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/” height=”26″ width=”100%” placement=”top” theme=”mini”]Q What is the difference between small groups and support groups? How do we care for the people in our small groups in ways that are healthy without becoming therapists for them? How do we keep small groups on track for their intended purpose? If you or anyone on your team […]
3 Ways to Creatively Communicate with Your Small Group Hosts
Ever feel stuck in a communication rut, wondering if people are actually hearing you? This feeling is actually quite new, ushered in by the world of technology. Believe it or not, there was a time where if you sent something like an invitation or a greeting, you were practically guaranteed the people you wanted to […]
One Big Mistake in Dealing With Difficult People
Think of your groups ministry. Somewhere in that context is someone that bugs you. Of course it’s not a pretty thing we talk about as pastors, but everyone has that person. You’re probably picturing them right now. Hold that person in your mind for the next few minutes. “That guy” Not too long ago I […]
1 Surefire Summer Strategy for Improving your Group Life Ministry
Summer is a challenging time as a group life point person. Many small groups take breaks or alter how often they meet to accommodate changing family schedules. I used to see this as a threat to group life ministry. However, where the world presents a threat, God often presents an opportunity. Summer is a great […]
3 Ways to Keep Small Groups Going in the Summer!
It’s officially summer in the Northern Hemisphere! It seems that the older we get the more power summer has to overwhelm us. As a small group leader this is something necessary to discuss with your small group hosts and participants. Summer doesn’t mess around. Things like kids being out of school, family vacations, beautiful weather, […]
Coaching Resource: 7 Ways to Suffocate Your Small Group
7 Ways to Suffocate Your Small Group Are you a new small group leader or host? Has your small group already launched and started rolling? Hopefully by now your group has gathered a few times, experienced genuine community and everyone is excited for the future! However, when it comes to leading a small group, there […]
Wanted: Authentic Community By Judy Colegrove
Small groups are all about leading people into a deeper relationship with Christ and with one another. But what if your group members haven’t really connected? How can you help them to move past superficial relationships and only showing up when it’s convenient, into a deeply committed, love relationship with Christ and one another? It […]
