James SewardToo many churches have taken the prayer meeting back behind the barn and shot it. If those prayer meetings were like some I’ve been to, I’m sympathetic. Yet Scripture makes plain from beginning to end that humble, desperate pleading with God is...
Jeffrey WiesnerWe are to raise up faithful leaders who will be able to instruct the church in sound doctrine. One way to accomplish this task is through a pastoral internship: a definite amount of time given to training aspiring leaders for the prospect of...
Jeanette PiferWhat if the very discipline Scripture commands us to practice “without ceasing” (1 Thess 5:17) is the one many Christians find hardest to sustain? Prayer is an integral part of Christian life and ministry. Yet, especially for new believers, it is...
What have I gotten myself into? Most of us who lead small groups have had that moment. Leading people is a bit like parenting: It doesn’t come with an instruction manual. It’s rife with unforeseen scenarios that are as unique as the people who make...
Steve AuldGrowing up in rural Northern Ireland, I spent many long summer days helping on our neighbor’s sheep farm. One sunny Saturday morning, the shepherd told me we’d be moving the sheep from the lower field to the upper field, where fresh green grass...
Derek FekkesGood discussion questions are a key ingredient to fruitful, enjoyable small groups. They challenge people to think, they elicit varied responses, and they facilitate healthy and respectful group discussion. They serve to create an environment for...
Sean DemarsSmall groups and the idea of being gospel-centered are not new, but without clarity we risk creating gatherings that are active and fun yet lack true spiritual depth. This article will touch 5 essential traits to look for in small groups.
Karen EngleLeading your church or small group through a Bible study can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience—when it’s the right study. But choosing which Bible study curriculum to use is sometimes more challenging than it seems! There are hundreds of...
How can a church effectively launch its small groups? What specific details need to be considered to get a small group ministry off the ground and running? Such nuts and bolts details are the burden of this particular article.
Casey BedellIf you are someone who is currently planting a church or interested in church planting, the work, as you know, is daunting. According to Pinetops Foundation church planting is near an all-time low in American history. Based on their research there...
Kelly CrossNever have enough volunteers? Ready to grow your church's volunteer team? Kelly Cross shares four practical, proven strategies to recruit and retain your volunteers. Learn how clear expectations, a small yes, and fun feasts can lead to big impact.