Spur in Love
As a group guide, do you consider each group member’s daily circumstance? When talking about Scripture, it’s easy to lean into factual questions, but can you guide discussion in light of God’s desire to see them grow? This means encouraging group members to share how God’s applying the passage to their day, praying for one another’s faith to be strengthened, and using the words of Scripture you study to affirm his faithfulness to one another. Can your small group spur one another on to go into the world with renewed confidence in the king?
“And he said, ‘The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground...the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how.’” Mark 4:26-27
Sow at Hand
Do you see every member of your small group as a sower? Think about what God has prepared for each of you: work to do, places to go, people with whom to share his truth, and a faith he shapes. Together, can you store up seed to scatter? This seed will include understanding of Scripture, stories of God’s growth, and the joy of fellowship. Together, can you drop seed where the King points to soil? God will do this in many ways, including showing kindness to the tired grocer, hope to the sad train rider, and peace at the family table.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” Phil. 4:4
Celebrate His Work
Can you guide your small group into celebration of God’s expansion by taking stock of his work? When a new member joins, someone shares the gospel at work, someone’s brother prays for the first time, someone leaves to start their own group, or someone moves to another country—your group has an opportunity to step back, marvel, and thank God! Can you joyfully submit your Bible study to the growth God has planned? Can you celebrate, even to the finish, knowing God used every thread for His glory?
So, when you want to grow your small group, trust that…
God, the king of the expanse, the master of multiplication, is always at work. His kingdom is revealed in his power, wisdom, and plans pouring out from his throne through his son, his Spirit of Truth, and his Word to redeem and transform the hearts of humankind.
The group guide who facilitates expansion rejoices in God who draws near and guides us to…
… shine in truth
… spur on in love
… sow seed at hand
… and celebrate His work.
