The mere mention of starting a new group often triggers a daunting list of reasons why you can’t … finding leaders, finding space, needing money for curriculum and supplies. However, when you consider the real potential of new groups you will discover reasons why you can and should.
The real potential of new groups is that it creates additional resources for Kingdom work! Consider these win-win possibilities that give your church an opportunity to grow beyond its present scope of influence.
Win-Win: Leaders—New groups require new leaders. That’s a good thing! More places to serve means that more members are growing spiritually as they find a place of ministry. Watch for new blogs on this website every day this week with ideas for multiplying your leaders.
Win-Win: Space—Good use of space means better stewardship of the facilities that God has provided for your church. It means previously unused space is now being used to reach people. Or it may mean using space multiple times, instead of only once a week on Sunday mornings. Or God may lead you to find additional space beyond your campus, such as using a business office, a school, or a home.
Win-Win: Money—Buying curriculum for a new group of 10 will cost less than $200 for the year (10 personal study guides, 1 leader guide, and 1 leader pack). Even though this represents a $200-a-year investment, that group will most likely give over $10,000 if the average person in the group gives $20 a week!
Win-Win: New People—Reaching new people for Christ and spiritual transformation is the ultimate motivation for starting new groups. You may argue that there is still room for new folks because your current groups are not “full.” However, most groups become closed after they have existed for 18-24 months. After that time, the pattern of relationships has been set, making it hard for new people to build relationships. A few people may come and “stick,” but rarely more than the group loses through natural attrition.
In contrast, a new group will bring an average of 10 new people attending Bible study within a year if properly begun. That 10 will not be just in the new group. For example, a new older children’s group may only reach 7 in the first year, but two parents, a teenager, and younger siblings add up to an increase of 10! Do you want your Sunday School to grow by 20 people? Start at least two new open, ongoing groups. Want to grow by 50 people? Start at least five new groups.
Enjoy God’s blessings of a win-win scenario with new leaders growing spiritually, better stewardship of space, increased giving for the church’s ministries, and best of all … reaching new people for Christ. Plan to start a new group … or two or three.
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