The Power and Importance of Small Groups in Christian Life
Introduction
A small group is ideally 3 to 8 people who gather together regularly for a more or less specific purpose. You might consider just two people as a friendship or partnership. More than 8 is more like a small congregation with multiple functions. For example the military breaks down into patrols of 8. The Boy Scouts follow that military model. In the Contemporary church model small groups multiply when they exceed 8.
The first effective small group I joined was at St. Mark’s and St. John’s in Rochester, New York. My seminary, Bexley Hall was one of several seminaries joined together. As such there was no joint worship on Sundays. I went to this church first of all because I knew the Priest. The first group I joined was the choir. It had a clear purpose of providing an offertory anthem at Sunday Worship. Members of the choir also belonged to a small group meeting each Friday evening for worship, prayer, and share. They invited me to join. I met my wife there and together we participated until I graduated. It was a very positive addition to my academic seminary experience.
1. Biblical Basis for Small Groups
•Acts 2:42-47:
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Early believers gathered in homes, sharing meals, teaching, and praying together. This passage highlights the importance of communal faith and intimate fellowship.
•Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Jesus emphasized that even in small numbers, God’s presence is with His people.
•Hebrews 10:24-25: Encourages believers not to give up meeting together and to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, showing the value of consistent gathering and encouragement.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
2. Benefits of Small Groups
•Deeper Relationships: Small groups provide an opportunity for believers to form genuine relationships (Proverbs 27:17 – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”).
As I shared I met my wife in a small group. Plus we maintained relationships with several member of the group for years.
•Accountability and Support: These settings allow for personal growth and accountability, creating a space for members to support one another through prayer and counsel (Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”).
When my wife became chronically ill this group was a major source of support.
•Spiritual Growth and Discipleship: Small groups are a platform for studying God’s word, discipleship, and encouraging one another in faith (Colossians 3:16 – “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom…”).
Bible study was not a formal part of our groups purpose. However at most meetings someone would usually share a significant scripture that had helped them in the past week.
3. Small Groups as a Model for Ministry
•Jesus and the Disciples: Jesus Himself modeled small group ministry with His disciples, investing time in them, teaching, and equipping them for ministry (Mark 3:14).
•Paul’s Ministry: Paul frequently met with small groups of believers, nurturing and teaching them (Acts 20:20). His letters also reflect the importance of intimate community and fellowship.
4. Practical Steps for Starting or Joining a Small Group
•Identify a focus or purpose for the group (e.g., Bible study, prayer, outreach).
•Choose a consistent time and place to meet.
•Encourage openness, honesty, and mutual support.
•Seek to build relationships and create an environment where spiritual growth is fostered.
Conclusion
Small groups facilitate and nurture personal and communal spiritual growth. When opportunities arise members of small groups can step up to share ministry. Small groups can grow in numbers and split to form new groups helping churches grow. Indeed, most successful large congregation thrive when they promote and support small groups.