
Small Group Toolbox: When To Start and Where to Meet?
Summary: Life shared over a table may be authentically richer than life shared across a pew.
In the “Toolbox” series of blog posts, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about leading Small Groups. If you have questions you’d like answered, drop us a message!
- When should I start a small group?
Sooner than we think! We can invite someone after only a few conversations to join a small group bible study. If they seem spiritually open, joining a small group is their next best step. They will learn to listen and respond to God on a daily journey, rather than limiting Christianity to a one-time event (i.e. when they prayed a prayed to have their sins forgiven).
You can say, “You seem really interested in discovering more about Jesus. Would you like to do that every week? We can read from the Bible and discover more about Jesus through the stories that were written about him. I’m free tomorrow at . . .”
2. Where should a new small group meet?
Small groups can meet anywhere that people can understand one another and not be interrupted by loud noise or other people. Homes, parks, cafes . . . etc. What is important is that people are able to share openly and honestly about how the Spirit of God is leading them to obey Him.
When possible, try to meet at a neutral location (like a park or cafe) or in the other person’s home. Why is this important? When we do this we communicate that growing in Jesus can happen wherever they are, in their context.
In all things, remember that life shared over a table may be authentically richer than life shared across the pew!