6. Ask if people disagree.
This is another way of deflecting the conversation back to the entire group. Not that you’re trying to start an argument, but the conversation certainly ramps up when people come from different perspectives. But try not to ignite theological debates with this tactic (see #10).
7. Model vulnerability.
Vulnerability is contagious. People desperately want to share what they are struggling with. But they want to know it’s safe. It’s the leader’s job to prove that it’s safe. It’s the only way you will have a chance at authentic accountability.
8. Just once, call on a shy person by name to share what they are thinking.
Some people are quieter by nature, and won’t share. That doesn’t mean that they aren’t participating. They’re probably processing what the others are sharing. Just one time, ask them by name what they think about what is being discussed. They are more likely to have a well-thought answer rather than feeling like they have been put on the spot.
9. Politely ask the talkative people to let others weigh in.
If you have a talker, eventually it will come to this. Simply say something like, “Joe, I’m looking forward to hearing what you think about this, but let’s hear from some other people who haven’t yet had as much of an opportunity to share tonight. Jill, what do you think?” Lines like this go a long way to let someone know they are talking too much—without shaming them—and providing a platform for others to share.
10. Encourage discussion on the interpretation of the passage.
The key here is to interact over what the Bible says instead of what they think or believe. Get them to talk about what they see in the Bible passage and take a stab at what that means for its overall interpretation. Request that people use the words of the passage and that they say what verse they are referring to. (This helps everyone else follow, and ensures they are working off the passage rather than their own opinion.)
This not only encourages discussion—it’s fun to figure out what a passage means together—it also ingrains good interpretation skills since you are keeping people focused on what the text actually says. Don’t forget to discuss how your findings should affect the way we live.
What about you? Are there any strategic ways you keep the conversation flowing in your small group? Drop your tips in the comments!
