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Homes Offering Meaningful Encounters GROUPS
H.O.M.E. Groups are designed for your personal growth in your walk with Jesus Christ. Not only will you be in a comfortable environment in which to learn and study the Bible, you will have an opportunity to build close relationships with other believers.
Many people don't consider being part of a small group a necessary part of their church life. They believe if they come regularly on Sunday to worship their spiritual life will be adequately nourished. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Every one of us needs to belong to a small group for our own benefit. Let me share just a few:
- YOU WILL UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE BETTER IN A SMALL GROUP:
If you've ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and wanted to stop and say, "But what about..."? or "I don't understand" then a small group is for you. Preaching and teaching is one-way communication - you listen while the speaker speaks. It's fine for imparting knowledge but not as effective for personal application.
- YOU WILL BEGIN TO REALLY FEEL LIKE PART OF GOD'S FAMILY:
Most people who have been part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. You'll discover that your needs and problems are not unique - we're all in the same boat. It helps to now that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process.
- PRAYER WILL BECOME MORE MEANINGFUL TO YOU:
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a worship setting. In a small group of 6 to 12, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and we will find answers to the needs of our lives.
- YOU WILL BE ABLE TO HANDLE STRESS AND PRESSURE BETTER:
Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You'll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you.
- 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. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home of office setting.
- 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, music, and an offering plate. Worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group praying or singing together.
- 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 call enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our church family. God never intended for it to be that way.
Small groups have these benefits that no believer can afford to pass up. If you are not participating in a group, why not commit to get involved in one now!
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