8 Reasons Why I Should Join A Small Group...
1. I will understand to Bible better in a small group.
If you´ve ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and wanted to stop that person and say, "But what about...?" or "I don´t understand," then a small group is for you! Preaching and teaching is one way communication. You listen while the speaker speaks. It´s fine for imparting knowledge but not as effective for personal application as a small group. In a small group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion of the text, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own personal situations and that happens best in small groups.
2. I will begin to really feel like part of God's family.
Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. You will have someone to telephone during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You'll discover that your needs and problems are not unique - we're all in the same boat. It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties or have lived through
them and learned spiritual principles in the process.
Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used to describe our relationship to other believers. We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another's burdens and build up one another. The only way you can obey these commands is to be connected with a small group of other believers! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. If you're lonely, the answer to your problem is to join a small group.
3. Prayer will become more meaningful to me.
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group of 6 to 12, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you´ll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and we find answers to the needs in our lives.
4. I will be able to handle stress and pressure better.
Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You'll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and who are committed to standing with you.
When someone loses a job, a family member has an extended illness, or a family needs a babysitter, your small group can address the practical needs arising from these challenging circumstances. Your group can coordinate meal service, childcare, prayer support and other assistance.
5. I will have a natural way to share Christ with unbelieving friends, relatives, and work associates.
It may be that some of your friends who don't the Lord wouldn't be caught dead coming to a church service. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion. In a small group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "on the spot." When your friend sees the love, warmth and honesty of your group it will make him more receptive to the Good News.
6. I will develop leadership skill I never knew I had!
The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents and "gifts" to benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately most Christians remain "Sunday morning spectators" all their lives because large group meetings are primarily "sit and listen" situations. As you share and participate in a relaxed small group setting, you'll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.
7. I will deepen my understanding of worship.
Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a choir, and an offering plate! Worship happens any time we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a small group through praying focusing on God together.
8. I will be a New Testament Christian!
The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends his people to grow and have their needs met in church. We will never be able to hire enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family. God never intended it to be that way!
Consider these verses:
"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Every day they continued to meet together.They broke bread in their homes and ate together.And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42,46-47
"Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ." Acts 5:42
"Greet also the church that meets at their house." Romans 16:5
I am excited about the incredible potential of the network of small groups we're building within Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church. Small groups have benefits that no believer can afford to pass up. If you are not participating in a small group, why not join one this week?
