The Large Benefits of Small Groups

“They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” – Acts 2:46-47.

Getting involved in a small group can help enrich our lives as Christians and develop our faith. For some, joining a small group can seem intimidating, time consuming, or simply not important compared to other obligations. Life is busy with our families, careers, and the long list of tasks we are responsible for. Committing to a small group may often fall at the bottom of one’s list of priorities for a variety of reasons.

But, people who are part of small groups feel more connected to their church, find ways to serve, and have a support system they can depend on for prayer and encouragement. The early church provides us with rich wisdom and examples about how to connect with other believers and how to be the body of Christ. The Acts 2 passage gives us a picture of the unity and harmony that can be found among believers, and what we should strive for today.

Believers are not called to face life alone. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 says, “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.“

Long before Jesus walked this earth, the same wise message was shared with those who followed God: companionship is necessary and part of God’s design for His people. We weren’t meant to go through life alone. As we journey through life, and especially when we face battles, having fellow Christians to support us in prayer and presence can make all the difference. Other believers can walk with us as we grow and transform spiritually. A small group can be the shoulder to lean on, or the hand to hold when we’re going through a difficult situation or need biblical counsel. God is our source and strength, and He oftentimes uses other believers to bring us renewed hope and peace when times are tough.

When you become part of a small group, you will have a chance to not only be encouraged, but to encourage others who are wanting to deepen their faith and live faithfully. You will get the chance to pour into other Christians who are looking for genuine community and fellowship. As God strengthens and empowers us, we are able to invest in others and point them in the direction of a solid relationship with Jesus.

If you’ve been on the fence about becoming part of a small group at your church, consider these benefits and how the Bible instructs us and gives us wisdom about being part of an intentional community of believers.

Discussion Questions:

Why do we need other people to watch over us and speak into our lives?