Growth Groups
Growth Groups FAQs
What is a Growth Group?
A Growth Group is a small group study that meets weekly for six weeks. Growth Groups will take place throughout the year, with five “blocks”, each six weeks long, each separated by a break of two weeks (the exception being the December break which will be three weeks)(see calendar on back).
What is the purpose of a Growth Group?
Two verses are helpful in describing our purpose for Growth Groups:
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. (II Peter 3:18) …until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ… (Ephesians 4:13)
The “growth” that we refer to in the name “Growth Groups” is growth in becoming like Christ. It is not simply knowledge, but knowledge of who Christ is, of God’s will, and of how to follow Jesus. It is not simply growth in relationships, but growing in Christ-like love for one another as his body. It is not simply growth in coping with life, but in honoring Christ and being content with Christ in every circumstance.
Will all Growth Groups look the same?
The short answer is “no”. Some groups will be for just men or just women. Some groups will be for parents with younger children. Some groups will be in-depth (ID) and thus involve more work outside of class. Some groups will devote more of their time to prayer. But what every group will have in common is a clear focus on Christ and growing as His followers in light of our overall vision at Way of Grace. The canvas may be a little different, but the frame will always be the same.
What elements will be included in a Growth Group meeting?
Please see the short flyer entitled “Growth Group Format” for more information on elements of each meeting.
What commitments are participants asked to make in a Growth Group?
The three main commitments we hope every person will make in regard to a growth group are 1) attendance, 2) participation, and 3) humility. In regard to attendance, we encourage participants to attend at least five out of the six session for each Growth Group block. Missing more than this can begin to defeat the effectiveness of the time in regard to both study and fellowship. In regard to participation, our hope is that every person comes ready to discuss and ask questions. In regard to humility, our prayer is that you will come with a teachable heart, an encouraging spirit, respect for the group leader, and desire to grow.
What will be expected of leaders in a Growth Group?
Here are some of the things we expect of those leading our Growth Groups: 1) Base every study (even studies using a Christian book) on a key verse or passage from God’s word, 2) Follow-up with each participant in person (outside the meeting) or by phone at least once over the course of the six-week block, and 3) facilitate the discussion in a way that material is considered in light of our disciple-making vision at Way of Grace.
