Here are Abraham's 5 reasons he doesn't like to be in a small group.
1. It’s another church service.
2. You’re either in or out.
3. Quitting feels like breaking up.
4. Kids equal chaos.
5. I’d rather be by myself.
How about you? Are you in a small group? Why or why not? Let it fly.
3 comments:
Hmm, there is so much that could be said here.
So here's my version of the stripped down most important part: I do small group and encourage others to because I believe it's similar to the discipline of "daily devotions". Devotions aren't commanded in the Bible per say, but daily discipline in the Word is important, even when telling someone to do it risks legalism. The potential gain outweighs the potential legalistic risks.
Same with small group. We know we're supposed to meet together regularly as Christians for edification, so that none of us may be hardened to sin's deceitfulness. Small groups are not commanded, but the principle is there and small groups are a form that embraces the principle, just like devotions.
Small groups have been a really important part of my Christian life. It has been both small women's Bible studies and small groups of couples. I realize that I am an extrovert who is energized by people, so that makes group situations easier for me, but I was married to an introvert for 25 years who also benefited from small groups. He found them initially uncomfortable and in his words, "a lot of work", for all of the reasons that have already been mentioned. He went because he knew that I needed to be there. Those were stretching times for him but I know that he always came away with a blessing. Usually the blessing was knowing that he found opportunities to love and encourage the other introverts in the group. He didn't talk much in "discussions" where he deferred to the more talkative people. Instead he talked one on one during the more informal times...meal time, greeting people as they arrived, and drawing people out by asking them questions about themselves and their lives.
My latest experience with a small group has been in the last three years since I made the move to Florida for the winter season. I didn't know a soul except my son and his family. The church that I attend has a big emphasis on "connection groups" so I signed up. It has helped me to meet people who have loved me and prayed for me and I have done the same for them. It's made all the difference in terms of my adjustment to a new place.
My comment from Abraham's site:
"We’re called to community, not small groups. But for us, our small group has been a means to the end of community. If you want to feel even more guilty about your reasons, give Bonhoeffer’s “Life Together” a read this weekend.
I am different. I really like being with people. My wife on the other hand would probably like your small group of one idea. She sees the need though and likes it when she gets there."
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