Small Group Toolbox: Highlights from 2025
Here are the highlights of our Small Group Toolbox in 2025. The Toolbox answers simple questions about leading a small group to become healthy, multiplying disciples.
February – What should I do when one person dominates the conversation?
“If someone consistently dominates the conversation, having a private conversation with them is helpful.”
April – When should I start a small group?
“We can invite someone after only a few conversations to join a small group bible study . . . They will learn to listen and respond to God on a daily journey . . .”
May – As a leader, what should be my criteria for others starting a new small group?
“A small group leader does not need to know a lot about Jesus, but they do need to obey Jesus a lot . . . If they are discovering, responding, and sharing, they will be quite fruitful.”
June – How do I cultivate accountability in my small group?
“If your small group does not put into practice during the week what they learned that week, the next best step is to repeat the lesson.”
July – How do I help my small group listen to the Holy Spirit?
“In the response time of our meeting, we can make space for silence. Thirty seconds or a minute of silence communicates that we value what the Holy Spirit has to say to us.”
August – How do I handle questions that are not from the passage we are studying?
“We can ask other followers of Jesus who are farther along in the journey than us, to help us find a passage of scripture that helps them discover the answer.”
September – What if someone misunderstands or misinterprets a Bible passage?
When we let the Holy Spirit speak through scripture, we keep relationship with the person while making room for the word of God to correct and transform their ideas.”
October – What is the best size for a small group?
“Groups that are between 3-8 people are the best size for healthy accountability, full participation, spiritual growth and multiplication.”
November – How can I help my small group become confident to share the gospel?
“Towards the end of your time together, group into pairs and role play a scenario of sharing the gospel . . . Putting the gospel into our own words is the first hurdle in getting confident to share.”
Pattern would love to hear your own questions about leading a small group. Share here and we will use your questions in 2026!
