What do we mean when we talk about small groups? And more importantly: what do we expect to happen when people gather in this way? The small group that wrote this book—made up of current and former campus ministry professionals with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship—explores these questions and gives you everything you need to know about small groups, including foundations, key components, life stages, planning, communication, conflict, leadership and more!
Most small-group leaders don't have time to read a book on small groups. Most barely have time to lead a group, much less explore the ins and outs of group ministry. They just want to know how to lead their group well! In this book, you'll find simple, clear answers presented in quick lists so you can easily find what you need.
Nearly every church is trying to help their congregants build relationships with others, grow as disciples, and/or engage in meaningful service through small groups. Many have argued that these small groups are the preferred vehicle for relationship building, disciple making, and membership assimilation in the local church, especially in large, multisite churches. Leading Small Groups That Thrive shows small group leaders, step by step, how to plan for, launch, build, sustain, and multiply highly effective, transformational, healthy small group experiences where people grow spiritually together. Based on a large-scale research study of small group pastors, leaders, and members, Leading Small Groups That Thrive gives church leaders both what they want--practical, straightforward, actual small group member voices and experiences, and compelling guidance on how to build transformational groups complemented with real-life examples and data of successful small groups--and what they need--substantial, challenging insights and a data-driven model grounded in the latest research on church small groups.
What do we mean when we talk about small groups? And more importantly: what do we expect to happen when people gather in this way? The small group that wrote this book—made up of current and former campus ministry professionals with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship—explores these questions and gives you everything you need to know about small groups, including foundations, key components, life stages, planning, communication, conflict, leadership and more!
The Small Group Leaders Handbook provides a solid scriptural foundation upon which to build your small group ministry. By combining biblical teaching with practical guidelines, the Small Group Leaders Handbook provides a balanced and thorough exploration of small group ministry in the twenty-first century.
The goal of youth ministry is “real” transformation. But “polite” youth ministry—when teenagers show up, say nice things to each other, yet never get real with one another—is not how transformational discipleship happens. Authors Tighe and Thomas believe leading young people into an intimate, abiding relationship with Jesus is the most important investment small-group leaders can make in life. And they truly believe that anyone who cares for teenagers can do it! Real ministry happens when volunteers/small-group leaders are equipped and empowered to reach and develop relationships that make a difference in the lives of the teenagers. But so many don’t feel like they really know how. Small-Group Leader’s Quick Guide to (Almost) Everything gives your volunteers the practical training they need in the bite-size format they’ll appreciate. This book is like a satisfying “protein bar” for youth ministry volunteers. It’s made for busy people who want to make a big difference in the lives of teenagers. Here’s some of what you’ll find packed into this quick guide: • Why relationships are EVERYTHING in youth ministry, and how to pour fuel on that fire • How to “decode” teenagers’ behavior in the moment and respond in a meaningful way • Why experiencing a relationship with Jesus matters more than just knowing facts • How to help hurting teenagers • How to set healthy boundaries for you and the teenagers • And so much more! If you’re a volunteer youth worker who cares for teenagers, you don’t have to be “cool” or wear skinny jeans or have a theological degree. You just need to have a desire to be present in the lives of students and feel equipped to respond. This book helps you do that...
If you're a small group leader, you believe in the power of community. You know that every stage and phase of life needs a unique kind of influence. But what exactly do you do? What exactly is your job?It's possible that you may feel lost at times, like your role falls somewhere between a parent and a friend, a coach and a teacher. But remember, you aren't supposed to be any of those things. You are a little of all of those things.Small groups come in many sizes. Those who wear diapers. Those who watch Disney. Those who are learning to drive. Those who are picking a college.Lead Small: Five Big Ideas Every Small Group Leader Needs to Know clarifies the responsibilities of the small group leader who works with children and teenagers. It establishes five common threads so that those who choose to lead in any size church can work off the same blueprint.When you lead small, you realize that what you do for a few has more potential than what you do for many. When you lead small, you choose to invest in the lives of a few to encourage authentic faith.With personal insight and practical advice, Reggie Joiner and Tom Shefchunas will show you how to do something small for a big impact.
Now completely rewritten, updated and expanded for a new generation of small group leaders, this IVP classic contains everything you need to know about small groups: starting with a strong biblical and strategic foundation; building in 4 key components--community, nurture, worship and outreach; guiding the group through its life stages; creating good communication; handling conflict in the group; encouraging members to "own" the group; planning group meetings; and developing leadership skills.And besides warm, wise counsel, Small Group Leaders' Handbook includes a resource section that's overflowing with great ideas: ice breakers, application steps, community-building projects, outreach tips and much more!Whether you are starting a new group, working to get a group back on track, or introducing a small group program as part of church or parachurch ministry, here is your ticket to effective foundations, training and practice.
Maybe you've shied away from leadership because you don't know what it will involve, or you feel too unsure of your own abilities. But your leadership is needed! Designed to work well on your own, with a partner or with a group, this twelve-session workbook is the essential preparation tool for those who would be led and shaped by Christ to lead others with strength and wisdom.
