A gospel-centered group is an intentional and welcoming group. As those who have experienced the welcoming grace of Christ, small group leaders and members at Christ Church take every opportunity to warmly and genuinely welcome newcomers and visitors (Rom. 15:7). A thriving, tight-knit community is not at odds with an intentional, welcoming environment (Acts 2:44, 47).
With groups meeting just a few times a month, leaders understand the value of planning and executing excellent, high-impact gatherings. Leaders are prayerful and diligent in preparation. When groups meet, time is meaningfully utilized and discussion is intentionally led. Leaders approach the small group gathering with a faith-filled anticipation that God will be at work (Phil. 1:6).
Though the small group gathering is not the primary context for biblical instruction at Christ Church, it does necessarily include some level of biblical instruction. And, as with any ministry or context at Christ Church, whenever the Bible is taught it must be taught in a way that is faithful and digestible (2 Tim. 2:15). Leaders understand that their responsibility is to facilitate discussion that is centered on the Bible and leads to proper understanding and application.
Communications—whether they be assimilation marketing or ministry-wide correspondence—are produced with dynamic, attractive creatives that build brand identity and maintain consistency with other ministry values. High-quality communication reflects the high value we place on small groups.
Groups are intentionally designed to offer a small, relational context for community—a context in which people are known and cared for. Care is not the responsibility of the leader alone, but is the responsibility of the whole group (Gal. 6:2). It’s an individual responsibility that, when collectively owned, will result in care for all.