December 2, 2012

How (Not) to Kill (or Split) a Small Group

By Michael C. Mack Question: How do you kill an unhealthy group? Answer: I believe this question begins with a faulty premise. I agree that some small groups are unhealthy, but I don”t think that warrants killing them off. Perhaps the person who asked this question read Brian Jones”s controversial column in the January 23, 2011, Christian Standard titled, “Why Churches Should Euthanize Small Groups.” “Modern-day small groups are led, for the most part,” Jones wrote, “by people who have attended the church, had a conversion experience, led a reasonably moral life, and can read the study-guide questions, but

November 25, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Big Picture Questions about Small Groups

By Michael C. Mack QUESTION: What is the purpose of small groups? Are they to evangelize or edify? Is the emphasis on fellowship (helping people in the church get to know one another better), assimilation (getting new people connected into the body so they don”t leave the church), ministry (serving others outside the group), or multiplication (growing the church by growing the number of groups)? Can small groups meet at the church building on Sunday morning (like Sunday school), or must they meet at a different time in a different place? ANSWER: These are all great questions, but I think

October 30, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Does Your Group Have the GUTS for Community?

The New Testament describes a kind of community we experience too seldom in the church today. Your group can take steps to correct that problem. By Michael C. Mack Did you see any of the Tour de France in July? One of the most remarkable elements in the race is the peloton, when cyclists ride in tight packs to save energy by drafting. In a well-formed peloton, there is up to a 40 percent reduction in drag. But there are many more advantages of the peloton, including the encouragement from other riders and the teamwork involved. I enjoy cycling in

September 15, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Facilitate so Your Group can Participate

Struggling to get your small group involved? Michael C. Mack shares 10 practical leadership tips for encouraging participation, building trust, strengthening relationships, and helping every group member contribute.

August 28, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

What”s the Point of Your Small Group?

Does your small group have a clear purpose? Michael C. Mack shares practical steps for setting God-led goals, developing a group covenant, and building healthier communities through intentional planning and discipleship.

July 28, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Don’t Lead Alone!

Michael C. Mack explains why healthy small group leaders share leadership, develop a core team, shepherd people through relationships, and intentionally prepare new leaders for groups that grow and multiply.

May 31, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Eight Vital Characteristics of a Life-Changing Small Group Leader

Michael C. Mack explores eight attributes of healthy small group leaders, including spiritual transformation, surrender, genuine friendship, shepherding, servant leadership, and a commitment to continued growth.

May 10, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

The Most Vital Small Group Principle

Michael C. Mack explains why keeping Christ at the center is the essential vital sign of a healthy small group and offers practical ways leaders can recognize his presence, power, and purposes.

April 6, 2012

Michael C. Mack

Church & Ministry Small Groups

Breaking the Ice

Michael C. Mack introduces seven vital signs of a healthy small group, from Christ-centered leadership and authentic community to shared leadership, outreach, intentional planning, and discipleship.