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A Great Small Group Is Not a Lecture

A great small group is not about a single person delivering a lecture. People grow when they participate in discovering and sharing truth together. However, leading an engaging conversation requires intentional effort. You can succeed by utilizing the resources at pursueGOD.org.

Facilitate, Don’t Teach

People don’t grow by passively hearing the Bible; they grow by engaging with it. A great small group leader is not a preacher or Bible expert but a facilitator who creates an environment for exploration and discussion. No one truly knows a truth until they can articulate it. This happens in a discussion format as people wrestle with and apply God’s truth.

Your role is not to deliver mini-sermons or have all the answers. Instead, allow the resources to do the teaching while you facilitate an engaging conversation.

Use the Library at pursueGOD.org

Many sources provide good small group curriculum, but pursueGOD.org offers several advantages:

  • Biblical – Every topic is explored from a trustworthy biblical perspective.
  • Free – There is never a cost to use or share.
  • Easy to Share – Simply send your group members a link before the next meeting.
  • Digital – Resources are accessible via phone or tablet, with no printing required.
  • Discussion-Based – Designed to foster meaningful conversations.
  • Concise – Engaging, to-the-point topics ensure participation.

Check out the “Categories” or “Podcasts” menus on the site to explore the vast range of options available for your group, or view the Home page for trending series.

Use Conversations

PursueGOD resources are structured to make leading discussions easy:

  • Podcast or Video – A podcast or short video explains the topic from a biblical perspective.
  • Summary – A brief article expands on the topic, often linking to additional resources.
  • Discussion Questions – Questions guide the conversation.
  • Related Resources – Additional resources, links, and downloads help extend learning and application.

Help Everyone Participate

Your goal is to engage all group members in discovering and sharing truth. Here’s how:

  • Limit What You Say – Give space for others to talk.
  • Practice Ground Rules – Set expectations for respectful and meaningful participation.
  • Manage Group Dynamics – Learn to encourage quiet members and rein in over-talkers.
  • Don’t Answer Your Own Questions – Give people time to think and respond.

Healthy groups are not dependent on one person teaching but thrive when everyone participates.

Talking Points:
  • Facilitate, Don’t Lecture – Small groups thrive when leaders guide discussions rather than dominate them. Encouraging engagement helps participants process and apply biblical truths.
  • Use Effective Resources – PursueGOD.org provides free, biblical, and easy-to-use digital materials that simplify group discussions and keep conversations grounded in scripture.
  • Discussion Fosters Growth – People grow by wrestling with biblical truths, asking questions, and applying lessons to their lives. A discussion-based approach makes learning more effective.
  • Encourage Full Participation – A great leader ensures everyone has a voice, balancing contributions from dominant speakers while drawing out quieter members for a more dynamic and enriching discussion.
Discussion Questions:
  1. Read the talking points above as a group, including scripture references. What are your initial thoughts about these points or about the podcast lesson (see audio above)?
  2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a teacher-centered small group?
  3. Why is it important to help everyone in the group participate in the discussion?
  4. What are some pros and cons of using the resources in the pursueGOD library? Do the pros outweigh the cons, and if so, why?
  5. What are some signs that you, as the discussion leader, are talking too much?
  6. How can you improve your ability to facilitate rather than teach?
  7. What strategies can you use to engage quieter group members in the discussion?

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