Small group multiplication should be a goal of your small group ministry. Whether your group recently started meeting or has been together for a while it is important to build your group with multiplication in mind.
You may be in a group where the chemistry is “just right” which makes the thought of change difficult. However, multiplying your group promotes health and will cause growth not just for others but for you as well.
As you grow together as a group, grow with the understanding that small group multiplication matters. Below are a few reasons why you should pray for, build upon, and lead toward multiplying small groups at your church:
Small Group Multiplcation Models What Jesus Commanded
In Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus commissioned His disciples to go and make other disciples.
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
How easy would it have been for the disciples to remain in their group? They had grown to know each other, they knew each others weaknesses, and they had experienced things together that were unique to their relationships. Regardless, the disciples focused on completing the mission.
Jesus himself modeled a pattern of discipleship:
– The one whom Jesus loved, John (John 13:23 & 20:2)
– Peter, James, & John were invited to the Transfiguration(Luke 9:28)
– The twelve disciples (Matthew 10)
– The seventy two (Luke 10)
Small Group Multiplication Gives Your Group A Goal
Having a goal to multiply will be a good reminder of one of the reasons for the group. This goal will provide a source of unity for your group. Having a goal in a group environment will naturally cause the members to work together providing opportunity for growth in and through those who participate in achieving the goal.
It is also reasonable to keep in mind that groups have a life span. Allow your group to live and breathe but be aware when it is time to mix things up by multiplying. This is one way to ensure that your group will end strong.
Small Group Multiplication Provides Opportunity For Others To Experience Community & Grow Spiritually
Multiplying your group provides new opportunity for outsiders to share in authentic Christian relationship. Adding new members to a group will also inject new energy, perspective, conversation, and diversity—all of which will be fresh air to a group that is nearing the time for multiplication.
If you’re a small group leader I invite you to join in prayer & action concerning multiplying your group. Make a commitment as a group to invest in leaders and invite those who are on the outside to join in experiencing community and growing spiritually.
Is there more you want to learn about building a healthy small group ministry at your church? If so, check out How To Start A Small Group Ministry At Your Church!
