
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-91510711-59ac9dfcd088c00010a57e72.jpg)
Unless a small group is grounded with a biblical foundation, it’s no different than a club or social group.Take a risk and share a little more each time you’re together. But don’t be content with simply answering basic questions or staying at surface-level sharing. It’s simply a natural part of forming relationships. As your trust deepens, your discussions can go deeper as well.ĭon’t expect to jump into the deep end at the first meeting.As you meet with your group, you’ll develop trust over time.Expect that trust will deepen over time.Some intentionality goes a long way in developing meaningful relationships.To build those relationships, get together outside the group meetings.At the same time, meeting for only a few weeks doesn’t usually translate into a life-long friendship simply because you’ve met. During your time together, there’s a good chance you’ll have the opportunity to begin new relationships. So relax, open up, ask questions, and just be yourself. But remember that you’re not the only person who’s new to small groups. People who have been part of groups for a while forget how nerve-racking it can be. When you try something new, you’re worried about what to expect: the dress code, the depth of study, the group dynamics. While thinking about our flaws might be depressing, there’s good news: Once we see each other as we truly are, in need of someone to redeem and save us, we can move closer to one another in life-changing community.Įxpect to find other people who are also new to the small-group experience. Only Jesus is perfect, and it’s unfair to expect perfection from anyone else-or yourself. As my favorite book title declares: Everybody’s Normal Till You Get To Know Them,īut, it’s good to know we’re not alone in our flaws. When you spend time with other people you’re able to see their finer points. Here are some realistic expectations for small groups: Expect to know you’re not alone. Small-group directors and pastors might sell small groups by saying that you’ll make life-long friends, that every meeting will leave you feeling happy about life, and that small groups are the cure-all for all that ails you.īut to be honest, we’re often guilty of overpromising. If you’ve been encouraged to join a small group, you’ve probably heard a list of things you can expect to experience. Note: This is a great handout for new group members so they know what to expect. What to expect in a small group Bible study?


4.0.1 What is the role of a Bible study coordinator?.4 What does the Bible say about leading groups?.

