Home Groups
Home Groups are relational environments where we learn to live life together, in a safe and confidential place. Home groups work much like "home rooms" in school. This is the group you return to each week to study, pray, share, and connect. You are also encouraged to attend other relational environments such as our adult education offerings. Your home group leader will help you take steps to maturity in Christ.
Home Groups are available in the following genres, but all groups study the same curriculum during the academic calendar. We strive to create an environment where every group is for everybody.
Men's Only - Men's groups are for those 18 and older and span all adult age groupings.
Women's Only - Women's only groups for those 18 and over and span all adult age groupings.
Mixed Groups - Comprised of both singles and couples ages 18 and over. We believe that this is the best environment where we can learn to love Christ and love one another.
Couples Groups - Intimate environments where married couples ages 18 and over can explore their relationships with Christ and with each other.
Why are Groups Important?
It is our belief that small groups are the model for how the church is to function in relationship with God and each other (Acts 2:42-47, Hebrews 10:25).
“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:25
Growth Groups are Jesus’ model for discipleship by:
- Developing meaningful relationships.
- Growing in faith and the personal application of God’s word.
- Shepherding people and ministering to their personal, emotional and spiritual needs.
- Holding each other accountable to the work and grace of God in our lives.
Jesus modeled for us the importance of a small group when he met with the twelve disciples. Small groups are an essential part of Christian growth. People will be best brought to wholeness and maturity within an atmosphere of honest and open relationships. This best occurs when men and women commit to meeting weekly with each other in their homes.
Our Growth Groups intentionally care for those within the group and always try to reach those who are not yet connected. These groups serve as a vital means for discipleship and pastoral care.
Growth Group Guidelines:
- Growth groups are SAFE GROUPS: We will all do our part to create an environment where everyone can be real, open, and honest with their struggles and victories.
- CONFIDENTIALITY IS KEY: What is said in the group stays in the group. Gossip destroys intimacy and relationships, and is not tolerated.
- There is NO CROSSTALK - Crosstalk is conversation that leaves others out. This includes using cel phones and texting during group time, or conducting a lengthy two-way conversation that doesn't include the group.
- NO ADVICE GIVING: We are not here to fix each other; that is Jesus' part.
- WE WANT EVERYONE TO HAVE A CHANCE TO SHARE: We strive to be sensitive about the amount of time we share so that everyone gets a chance to speak what is on their heart.
- WE COMMIT TO RESOLVE CONFLICT BIBLICALLY: Disagreements happen. Feelings get hurt. As we experience life together in the safety of a group, there is also safety in how we resolve our conflicts. Matthew 18 is our model for conflict resolution.
