Why should i consider joining a Life Group?

To follow the pattern of the New Testament

The book of Acts gives some clear examples of God's design for His church to grow and have their needs met. There will never be enough full-time pastors to meet all the individual needs in the Christian family. Consider the following 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. Everyday 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, 44, 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)

"Aquilla and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord, and so does the church that meets at their house." (1 Corinthians 16:19)

To begin to really feel like part of God's family

Most people who have been a part of a Life group enjoy the friendships and close relationships tha develop. They often phone each other during the week to share a prayer request or an exciting answer to prayer. In the process people discover that their needs and problems are not unique. It helps to understand that others are facing the same issues and that God can bring us through.

More than fifty times the Bible uses the phrase "one another" to describe our relationship to other believers. We are directed to love one another, encourage one another, accept one another, bear one another's burdens, and build up one another. The Life group offers us an excellent way to fulfill these directives. We really do need each other. God never intended for us to be alone in the Christian life. If you struggle with loneliness, you need to join a Life Group.

To be able to handle stress better

Life Groups offer excellent support in times of crises and stress. They provide a sense of stability knowing that there are people who really care for you and are willing to stand by your side in tough times.

The Life group offers security in times of extended illness, or a job loss, or a family crisis. Many people testify that their Life Group was a great source of blessing in troubled times.

To understand the Bible

The Bible need to be applied to your own personal situation. Often that happens best in a Life Group. Preaching and teaching is one way communication - you listen while the leader speaks. It's great for imparting knowledge, but it's not effective for personal application as a Life group setting. In a Life group you can ask questions, take part in a discussion of the text, and hear others share their insights and illustrations of the truth you are considering.

To become more effective in prayer

Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially if it's a large crowd. In a Life Group you will learn to pray by having a conversation together with God. No one is forced to pray, but as you become comfortable, you'll join in. There are many promises in the Bible about group prayer.

To deepen your understanding of worship

Many believers believe that worship only happens in a congregational setting with a sermon, a praise team, and an offering plate. However, worship happens anywhere people focus on an experience the presence of God. Sometimes worship happens beautifully in a small group setting where people linger in prayer and singing. Our Life Group leaders often report that "tonight there was a sweet sweet spirit in this place" as they describe their time of Life Group worship.

To have a natural way to share Christ

It could be that unbelieving friends or family are hesitant to come to church. Perhaps they have had a bad experience in a church somewhere or they are just reluctant to take that first step. Those same people may be open to a discussion group in an informal setting in a home or office setting. In a Life Group a person sees the honesty and love and warmth of the Life Group, it will make him much more receptive to the Good News.

To develop leadership skills

The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain spiritual gifts to benefit others in the Christian family. Unfortunately, many Christians remain spectators all their lives because their major involvement in the church is in large group worship settings. As people participate in a Life Group setting, they discover their gifts and build confidence in expressing them. This discovery and practice will equip you more fully to be a leader in every are of your life.