I am writing this on Thursday morning, sitting
among some 70 pastors and leaders of the Ontario Conference at the Toronto West
church reflecting on issues impeding growth of our church. 11,837 church members from 427 churches were
polled with surveys and questions from 2007 to 2012. The two weakest factors in general for most
of Adventist churches in North America are loving relationships (fear of
judgmentalism L
when everyone tries to be perfect, trust others with our real issues), and lack
of community in Small Groups. In our
church we had addressed the need for Small Groups, understanding that lack of
relationships hinders formation of such community groups. During our “brainstorming” sessions among
local leaders in London a question that was frequently raised and not fully
answered was: “Define the Small Group!?”
As I look at responses of people from different backgrounds on the NCD
survey, I think of this “checklist” definition:
Holistic
Small Group (or a House Church) is a group which:
o Helps me with the
challenges of my life
o Spends lots of time on
things that are urgent and relevant to me
o Helps me to grow
spiritually, and connects me with Christ more
o Is safe to talk about
personal problems
o Has an environment of
trust, where we trust each other
o Integrates newcomers
quickly, and is welcoming
o Will pray with me when I
need it
o Makes me feel at home
o Has caring leaders well
trained to serve
o Actively seeks to
multiply and grow other groups
If you belong to a group, did you check all the
above? It is our goal to have all groups
become such beacons of hope! If you are
not in a group, and may be considering hosting one, offering your home for such
a weekly group, please let our leaders team know. There are sign-up sheets if you would like to
open your doors. Hosting a small group
just may turn out to be your special blessing.
You may know someone who’s got leadership giftedness – team up and form
a group. The best approach for groups is
by geographic proximity, making it close and convenient to meet, without time
loss to travel.
You may be the very person that God is looking
for to lead a small group. You don't have to preach, you don't have to be an
expert in bible history, we are looking for individuals who can connect with
people, are compassionate, respectful and can direct an evening of casual
conversation, focussed discussion and meaningful group prayer. If you are even
remotely interested, speak with our elders and myself to explore this
opportunity, you may be pleasantly surprised at what God can do with your
willing heart.
Our movement grew from revivalist small groups,
it grew through small groups in multiple locations, and today such experience
is much needed to help believers grow in Christ As we address these will our
church become more or less Adventist? I
believe that in Small Groups we will become more fit for our mission and our
Adventist heritage will be enhanced.
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