To create a culture of discipleship, a church needs great small groups that do the right things, led by committed leaders who do the right things.

Talking Points:

  • Small groups allow everyone in a church to receive care-not from one overworked pastor, but from people who know them best. Exodus 18:14,18
  • PursueGOD small groups use conversation starters to speak truth in love through the course of a small group season. Ephesians 4:15
  • PursueGOD group leaders are not primarily Bible teachers, but disciples who make disciples. Matthew 28:19-20
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. Think of the best small group you have been a part of. What made it a great group?
  3. Read Exodus 18:14,18. Identify what Jethro observed from watching Moses. Why isn’t it sustainable for one pastor to do all the work?
  4. Have you ever experienced pastoral care in a small group setting? Explain. How did it impact your life?
  5. Read Ephesians 4:15. What does it mean to speak the truth in love? What does it look like to speak truth in an unloving way? Why can a small group be a better environment for harder conversations?
  6. What are the relative strengths of a sermon versus a small group discussion? How do the two work together to make disciples?
  7. What do you think will eventually happen in a small group that is not intentional about making disciples who make disciples?
  8. What are some topics or series that you think will be good for the group you are starting?
  9. As you prepare to lead a group, how does it help you to keep in mind your part versus God’s part?
  10. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?