Life Groups

 

  1. You will understand the Bible better in a Life Group.   Have you ever listened to a pastor's message or a Bible teacher and wanted to stop that person and say, "But what about ....?"  or "I don't understand!"  If so, then a Life Group is for you!  A lecture format is fine for imparting knowledge but is not as effective for personal application as is a small group.  In a Life Group setting, you can ask questions, participate in meaningful discussions, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp.  For you to grow as a Christian, the Bible must be applied to your own personal situations, and that happens best in Life Groups.
  2. You will begin to really feel like part of God's family.  Most people who have been a part of a Life Group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop.  They will frequently telephone each other during the week to talk as friends, to share a prayer request, or to offer some discernment.  You'll discover that your needs and problems are not unique - we're all in the same boat.  It comforts us to know that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and have learned some valuable lessons in the process.   Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used to describe our relationship to other believers.  We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, and build up one another.  You can't fulfill these commands by looking at the back of someone's head in a large meeting .  A Life Group is the ideal place!  We really do need each other.  God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life.  If you feel lonely or unconnected the answer to your situation is to become involved in a group.
  3. Prayer will become more meaningful to you.  Many believers are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially when there are a lot of people around.  Ina small group of 6 to 12, you will learn to participate in prayer by conversing with God together with others.  No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you'll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in.  There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer.  In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together as we find answers to the needs in our lives.
  4. You will be able to handle stress and pressure better.  Life Groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change and stress.  You'll have a sense of stability and security knowing that there are people who really  care for you and are committed to your well being.  When someone loses a job or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter - these are partial needs that can be taken care of through your Life Group,  Your Life Group can coordinate the sharing of hot meals to be brought in when your family is in need many people in our church could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn't been for the support of their group.
  5. You will have a natural way to share Christ with unbelieving friends, relatives, and work associates.  It may be that some of your friends who don't know the Lord wouldn't be caught dead in a church.  They have a preconceived idea about religion, and just the thought makes them feel defensive.  But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home or office setting.  In a Life Group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot."  God can use the love and warmth and honesty of your group to lead your friend to Christ.
  6. You will develop leadership skills you never knew you had!  The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or "gifts" to benefit others in the family of God.  Unfortunately most Christians remain as Sunday morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily "sit and listen" situations.  As you share and participate in a relaxed small group setting you'll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising.  This kind of learning opportunity will help you at work, at church, and in relationships in other group settings.
  7. You will deepen your understanding of worship.   Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a choir, and an offering plate!  Worship happens anytime we express our love to God.  Life Groups provide a great atmosphere in which to worship the Lord with like-minded believers,.
  8. You will be a New Testament Christian! The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for his people to grow and have their needs met in the church.  We will never be able to hire enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family.  God never intended for it to be that way!

Jones Life Group

Wednesday 7:00 pm
Judah Family Life Center

Duble Life Group

Wednesday 7:00 pm

Dixon Life Group

Friday 7:30 pm
Judah Family Life Center