GROWING together-Why Join a Grow Group? 

 

 

1. You will understand the Bible better.
Ever listened to a preacher and wanted to stop that person and say, "But what about...?" or "I don’t understand!" then a Grow group is for you! Preaching and teaching is one-way communication, fine for imparting knowledge but not as effective for personal application as a small group. In a small group setting where you see face to face not the backs of heads you can ask questions, participate in discussion, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are grappling with. Many of our groups will link strongly with the theme of the Sunday messages.

2. Prayer will become more meaningful to you.
People can be hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in church. In a Grow group you can learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you’ll be able to join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer- there’s power in meeting like this because the Lord is in the midst of us! People can be hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in church. In a Grow group you can learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you’ll be able to join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer- there’s power in meeting like this because the Lord is in the midst of us!

3. You will begin to feel more like part of God’s family.
We don’t guarantee you’ll make friends for life in every group as our groups are ones where you sign up for a term not for life – but many say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently ‘phone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You also find your needs and problems are not unique - we’re all in the same boat! It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process. We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. They are not places for deep counselling etc., but if you’re lonely or struggling- part of the answer to your problem is to join a Grow group.

4. You will have a natural way to share Christ with friends, relatives, and work associates. We don’t guarantee you’ll make friends for life in every group as our groups are ones where you sign up for a term not for life – but many say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently ‘phone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You also find your needs and problems are not unique - we’re all in the same boat! It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process. We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. They are not places for deep counselling etc., but if you’re lonely or struggling- part of the answer to your problem is to join a Grow group.

We all know someone who doesn’t know the Lord yet and might not come to church this Sunday because preconceived ideas make them defensive. Those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual and welcoming discussion – or just a meal - in a home setting. In a small group, people can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot". When your friend sees the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him or her more receptive to the Good News.

5. You will be able to handle stress and pressure better.
Grow groups are intended to provide support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You’ll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who care for you and standing with you. Groups often coordinate the sharing of hot meals to be brought in if a family is in need. When someone loses a job, or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter – such practical needs will be naturally helped through your group.

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 Christians can remain as Sunday spectators because large group meetings like we have on Sunday are primarily "sit and listen" situations. As you share and participate in a relaxed setting, you’ll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.
 
7. You will deepen your understanding of worship.
It’s a mistake to believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in large group with a sermon and a band. Real worship happens anytime and anywhere we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group in praying, singing or breaking bread together.

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 leaders to meet all the individual needs in our Church family. God never intended for it to be that way! Here’s our pattern - It’s a mistake to believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in large group with a sermon and a band. Real worship happens anytime and anywhere we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group in praying, singing or breaking bread together. 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 leaders to meet all the individual needs in our Church family. God never intended for it to be that way! Here’s our pattern -

"They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Every day they continued to meet together... they broke bread in their homes and ate together... and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." Acts 2:42, 44, 46-47

I am excited about the growing network of Grow groups we’re building at Ivy. No-one who wants to grow spiritually can afford to pass up these eight benefits. Interested in an invitation to a group? I hope so. Let us know.