Our group was meeting in Brenda’s apartment for a seven-week study on the book of John. One night, we were studying chapter 6 about Jesus feeding the 5,000 families.
Through the years, I've appreciated the great opening and discussion questions in Serendipity Bible for Groups. This particular night, the opening question was, “When was a time in your life that you were hungry?”
Several of us talked about a time when we missed several meals or went a day without eating. When it was Brenda’s turn, she said, “I was hungry from the age of 5 until 13.” I think all of us were shocked.
She continued. “I grew up in a single-parent home with lots of siblings. Mama would buy a big tub of potato salad that needed to last the family all week. We ate breakfast and skipped lunch and supper.”
As I reflect on that night with that small group, it still has a profound effect on me.
It’s one thing to discuss Bible knowledge. It’s quite another thing to hear each other’s stories and see how God’s word can impact our lives as we journey together.
As the U.S. suffers from an epidemic of loneliness, now is the time for God’s people to step forward with God’s solution: small groups.
- The Children of Israel were organized into small groups by Moses (Exod. 18:13-26).
- Jesus led a small group while here on earth (Mark 1:16–20; 3:13–18; Luke 10:1-9).
- The early church often met in groups in homes (Acts 2:42–47; 5:42; 8:3; 10:2; 12:12; 16:32; 16:40; 18:7; 20:20; etc.).
Ellen White told us it’s God’s idea, and she showed us how it works in Testimonies for the Church, volume 7, page 21.4. She wrote:
"The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort has been presented to me by One who cannot err. If there is a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members, but for unbelievers."
"If in one place there are only two or three who know the truth, let them form themselves into a band of workers. Let them keep their bond of union unbroken, pressing together in love and unity, encouraging one another to advance, each gaining courage and strength from the assistance of the others. Let them reveal Christlike forbearance and patience, speaking no hasty words, using the talent of speech to build one another up in the most holy faith."
"Let them labor in Christlike love for those outside the fold, forgetting self in their endeavor to help others. As they work and pray in Christ's name, their numbers will increase; for the Savior says: 'If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven.' (Matt. 18:19).”
Each group, whether based on Bible study, ministry activity, hobby or recreation, should include:
- Upreach — Time to connect with God through the Bible, prayer and praise.
- Inreach — Time to connect with each other for listening, encouragement and celebration.
- Outreach — Time to find ways to share Jesus and the truths of His word with others, and invite them into His final movement.
Why not join a group like that this week? Or better yet, invite a couple of friends to help you start one. As you meet, make a list of others who could be welcomed into a space where they are listened to, loved, served, celebrated and given the opportunity to discover God’s beautiful plan for their lives.
If you’re unsure where to begin — or want a helpful refresher on best practices — this issue’s feature by Kurt Johnson, General Conference assistant director of Sabbath School and personal ministries, provides practical guidance for launching a life-giving group.
Groups don’t need to be large or permanent to make a lasting impact. Invite new members, neighbors, coworkers, classmates and those navigating life changes. Start a short-term group for one to three months for any reason under the sun. Whenever there's a significant life event — a child dedication, wedding, baptism or funeral — start a group to surround those involved with love and support.
Bringing the church home is a step toward deeper discipleship, authentic friendship and a life that naturally draws others to Jesus.
