I always get
excited when a new Life Group starts. I
know and have experienced how small groups can change a person’s life. However,
If you are like me, you have probably had a bad small group experience at least
once in your life.
You know the
kind, where someone takes over the discussion or where the leader allows too
much time of awkward silence. There is nothing worse than a bad small group
experience. In fact, this is the reason why so many people are reluctant to be
a part of a small group.
As group leaders, our job is to protect our
small groups and make them a safe place where people can share, grow, and learn
together. Here are five landmines that can destroy a good small group.
1.
They become a gossip group.
Small groups
are not a place to talk about others, rather they should be a safe place that
is free from gossip and condemnation. People who attend a small group should
feel free to come as they are and share openly and honestly. If we are not
careful, small groups can degenerate into a gossip group that will tear down
instead of build up.
2.
They become a one-man show.
The leader
should not do all the talking. Encourage others to participate and share in the
group discussions. I have been to some small groups where only one person does
all the talking. When this happens no one wants to share, much less attend. An
effective small group leader encourages everyone to participate in the times of
discussion.
3.
They become a place to complain about the church.
Small groups
can become a sounding board for disgruntled people to complain about the
church. This is not a place to complain and slander the church. If people have
a problem with the church, they need to share it with the church’s leadership,
which is biblical. Do not allow upset people to use the small group as a place
to complain about their problems.
4.
They become a place for crazy people to take over.
Small groups
can attract crazy people who will hijack the group if you let them. Do not
allow people to get off the subject by chasing rabbit trails. Whenever people
start getting off track in the discussions, bring them back quickly. This
requires a lot of discernment and grace. A good leader can keep people on track
and the discussion moving.
5.
They become an end in themselves.
Sometimes small groups become merely a meeting place or a
social club; rather small groups should reach out to new people in the
community. Small groups can also serve the community. Please encourage your
group to reach out to others. Begin thinking of creative ways that you can
serve together as a small group.
I am looking forward to hearing what God is doing in your
small group!
