How to have successful Sharing Groups
Definition:
By sharing groups, we mean that the members:
1. meet regularly for a definite period, such as a year (renewable);
2. commit themselves to regular attendance;
3. share personal needs and pray for one another;
4. engage in discussion-based study of God’s Word.
Purpose:
These groups provide:
1. Growth as a Disciple, according to Jesus’ plan.
2. Mutual support . as described in the New Testament (verses at bottom of page)
3. Strengthening bonds between members, resulting in a stronger congregation
4. A place to speak about faith in a safe setting, increasing ability to witness outside the group.
5. A non-threatening place to invite others
Success:
These groups are effective if:
1. The members are committed to one another and to the success of the group
2. The group size allows free-flowing discussion (6 to 12 people)
3. Each member comes for the purpose of spiritual growth
4. Each member believes and prays that the Holy Spirit will prompt him to say
those things that build up the others in the group
5. All know that things shared in the group are confidential
6. Group members join in selecting materials and designing format
7. One person in the group takes the role of leader, though tasks such as facilitating discussion can be delegated for a given meeting.
Expectations:
1. Group members will be available to one another at times of need.
2. Individuals will be willing to share needs, so others can help them.
3. Groups will honor our church’s teachings and vision
4. Groups will create a covenant to guide that season’s meetings
5. Groups will divide when they reach a certain size (about 12).
6. Members will make this size increase likely by actively inviting visitors.
7. Several in the group will gain experience in leading discussions so they are ready to start a new group when the time comes.
8. At the end of a season (typically, around June), each group will decide whether to continue another year or to purposely separate in order to become parts of other groups or to create new groups for the next season.
Bible Basis
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom,
1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing,
Galatians 6:2 Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ,
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another,
Help: This site provides suggestions for:
Forming a group
Organizing the group
Hints for a successful meeting
Spiritual impact
Finding and writing good discussion material
These “Sharing Group” web pages were created by the Sharing Group Ministries Team and other members of Immanuel Lutheran church, Loveland, Colorado.