Twelve Small Group Guidelines

1. Small groups teaching should always focus on the spiritual walk and Christian living of the members. We must be careful not to direct them toward our own personal theological perspectives on soteriology or eschatology, since, as a movement, we recognize that there is no single agreed-upon view in these areas. Introducing such topics within small groups can create unnecessary confusion and may hinder unbelievers from grasping the simplicity of the gospel and the practical call to follow Jesus Christ in their daily lives. There is certainly a proper context for equipping and training in doctrinal matters, but that should take place in designated teaching or training settings, not within small groups, where the emphasis should remain on spiritual growth, discipleship, and personal application.

2. Small groups are designed to meet on a weekly basis. In the event that you are unable to lead a session, it is important to equip and entrust someone else to facilitate the group. This not only ensures continuity and consistence but also provides an opportunity to train a potential future intern who, in time, may be prepared to lead a small group himself when the need arises for multiplication.  

3. Small groups are also intended to multiply. As a leader, it is important to regularly assess whether your group is simply maintaining a small circle of longtime members over many years. While fellowship and deepened relationships are valuable, remaining inward-focused can hinder the greater purpose of small groups, reaching out to the lost and providing a place of connection and growth for new believers who have yet to be integrated into the church community. 

4. Small groups are not intended to be mini-sermons or platforms for airing personal opinions, preferences, or private interpretations. Rather, they are designed to provide a safe and open environment where every member has the opportunity to share their insights on the passage of God’s Word being studied at that time. Leaders should avoid monopolizing the discussion and instead encourage balanced participation, allowing each member to contribute what they have learned. By doing so, we are equipping believers to read, study, and meditate on Scripture for themselves, fostering spiritual growth and deeper engagement with God’s Word. 

5. Small groups are designed to raise up future leaders. They are not meant to revolve around a single leader but to function as leadership-developing communities that prepare others to eventually lead groups of their own. Many believers may initially appear timid, shy, or reserved; however, when given the opportunity to share their thoughts and insights, they gradually learn to speak with confidence and conviction as they reflect on God’s Word. By cultivating this environment of participation and empowerment, small groups help believers grow into disciple-makers who, in time, can lead new groups—thereby multiplying the ministry and extending the reach of the gospel.

6. Small groups are designed to be places of prayer. Each gathering should begin with prayer, setting the tone for God’s presence and guidance. Leaders and members alike must remain sensitive to those who may be experiencing trials, challenges, or difficulties in their lives. Such moments provide opportunities to minister, offering spiritual strength and encouragement to those in need. Be attentive to the leading and prompting of the Holy Spirit, who may direct the group to pause in order to pray specifically for an individual. In doing so, the small group becomes not only a place of study and fellowship but also a true community of care, intercession, and spiritual support.   

7. Small groups are designed to help members grow in God’s Word and deepen their intimacy with the Lord. While there is certainly room for fellowship and social interaction, the primary purpose is to equip every member to rely on and embrace the truth of God’s Word. In doing so, they will find encouragement and strength not only for the week ahead but also for the months and years to come, enabling them to walk faithfully with Christ in every season of life.   

8. Small groups are not intended as venues for borrowing money, sharing political opinions, engaging in gossip, or debating theological points. As a leader, one naturally holds a position of authority and earns the respect of members; however, there is a risk of misusing that authority by becoming manipulative, authoritative, demanding, or legalistic. Leaders must be vigilant not to abuse the trust that God has placed in their hands, as such actions can cause members to stumble and damage the witness of the group. It is essential that leaders continually examine their own lives, modeling humility, integrity, and Christlike character in all interactions.  

9. Small groups are not intended for members to commit their lives permanently to a single group or leader. There comes a season when some may feel led to transition to another group or leader to receive fresh impartation, growth, or perspective in their spiritual journey. As leaders and fellow believers, we should not hinder this movement but instead release them with blessing, encouragement, and prayer. Just as Paul encouraged the Corinthian church to grow in maturity and move in the Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:6-7), we too can rejoice when God directs His people to new opportunities for growth, trusting that He is faithful to continue His work in their lives.  

10. Small groups are ideally led by one committed leader and include at least two members. This setup creates an intimate environment where meaningful interaction, mutual encouragement, and heartfelt prayer can naturally take place. It allows members to share openly, grow spiritually together, and receive personalized guidance, fostering both accountability and support within the body of Christ. 

11. Small groups are designed to foster unity and encouragement among members, not to disrespect church leaders and pastors. As the Bible instructs in Hebrews 10:24-25, we are to “consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” Small groups serve as a setting where members can build each other up (1 Thessalonians 5:11) and strengthen their relationships, promoting harmony rather than division within the church. Their purpose is to deepen fellowship and spiritual growth, always honoring the leadership God has placed over the church (Hebrews 13:17).

12. Small groups should be a safe space where members can share openly without fear of judgment or leaks. Confidentiality builds trust and strengthens relationships. Proverbs 11:13 reminds us, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” At the same time, there are moments when sensitive information may need to be shared, but only when it is necessary for spiritual care or accountability, such as asking for guidance from other leaders or pastors. This should always be done on a “need-to-know” basis, in love and with the intent of restoration, as Galatians 6:1–2 says, “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness… Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” In this way, small groups remain a place of safety, trust, and Christlike care.