At Stonebrook, the weekend service is only a small part of our plan for helping each of us in our spiritual lives. Life Groups, which are small groups of friends who gather regularly, are an essential part of our strategy to help every one of us grow closer to God and enjoy life more.
So why should you join a Life Group? Here are eight reasons:
If you've ever listened to a pastor and wanted to stop him and say, "But what about...?," then a small group is for you! Preaching is one-way communication and fine for imparting knowledge, but it's not as effective for personal application as a small group. In a small group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion, and hear others share insights about the truth you are trying to grasp. (And many of our groups are using the weekend service message as the topic for Bible discussion.)
Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close friendships that develop. 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 50 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, pray for one another, bear one another's burdens, and build up one another. The best way you can obey these commands is in a small group! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life.
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group of friends, 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 join in. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and find answers to the needs in our lives.
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 are committed to standing with you. When someone loses a job, or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter-these are practical needs that will be commonly met through your small group. Many people in our church could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn't been for the support of their group.
It may be that some of your friends who don't know the Lord wouldn't be caught dead in a church. They have a preconceived idea and may even be defensive. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home or dorm room. In a Life Group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put 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.
The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or "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 rising. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.
Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a band, and an offering plate! Worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group in praying or singing together.
The New Testament is very clear about how God intends for His people to grow and have their needs met in the church. We will never be able to hire enough pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family. God never intended for it to be that way!
Consider these verses:
Acts 2:44-47 All the believers were together and had everything in common...They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
1 Corinthians 16:19 ...Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord.
We are excited about the incredible potential of the network of small groups we're building within Stonebrook. Life Groups have these eight benefits that no believer can afford to pass up. If you are not participating in a group, why not join one this week?
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, and we'll get you connected to Life!
