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Three Times a Small Group Leader Should Keep Quiet

Small group leaders often feel an obligation to TALK. There are a few times when allowing another voice to be heard is the best choice.
 
1.     When a small group leader asks a question. When leading a conversational Bible study, small group leaders have a tendency to ask a question then, if no one jumps in quickly, the small group leader fills the awkward silence. Don’t. Ask the question and wait. Sooner or later someone will speak up. Not only that, they’ll voice a well thought out statement.
 
2.     When someone else in the group has the knowledge to speak to the issue. Oftentimes during a group meeting someone in the group unveils a life situation or a doctrinal question. The tendency of the small group leader is to speak to that situation or question. If the leader knows someone else in the group is capable of answering that question or has already been through that life situation, allow them to speak. You may have to call their name and get them to jump in. If necessary, do that. This will grow the person who speaks to the situation or question as well as helping other group members realize that wisdom from all for all is what you’re after.
 
3.     When the Bible has the answer to the question. The goal of a Christian community is to hear from God. Most often, He speaks to us through His Word. When a question comes up allow the Bible to speak. That is, turn to a passage of Scripture and tell the person asking the question what God tells us in Scripture. God’s response is always the right response, whereas our opinion may miss the mark. 
 
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rhowerton@churchleaders.com'
Rick has one passion… To see “a biblical small group within walking distance of every person on the planet making disciples that make disciples.” He is presently pursuing this passion as the Small Group and Discipleship Specialist at LifeWay Church Resources. Rick has authored or co-authored multiple books, studies, and leader training resources including A Different Kind of Tribe: Embracing the New Small Group Dynamic, Destination Community: Small Group Ministry Manual, The Gospel and the Truth: Living the Message of Jesus, Small Group Life Ministry Manual: A New Approach to Small Groups, Redeeming the Tears: a Journey Through Grief and Loss, Small Group Life: Kingdom, Small Group Kickoff Retreat: Experiential Training for Small Group Leaders, and Great Beginnings: Your First Small Group Study, Disciples Path: A Practical Guide to Disciple Making. Rick’s varied ministry experiences as an collegiate minister, small group pastor, teaching pastor, elder, full-time trainer and church consultant, as well as having been a successful church planter gives him a perspective of church life that is all-encompassing and multi-dimensional. Rick is a highly sought after communicator and trainer.