Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field (Matthew 13:24).

Definition of a Small Group

Many make a serious error in defining and operating their Small Group. They make them into either Fellowship Groups, Bible Study Groups, Outreach Groups, Task or Ministries Groups, Support Groups, Prayer Groups or some other type of group. As goods as these group can be, they are not a true Biblical Based Small Group, because all are focused driven on one particular aspect.

A true Biblical Small Group can best be found in Acts 2:46-47:

"And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved."

A good working definition of a Small Group is: An intentional gathering of 3 to 12 people, who meet on a regular scheduled basis, for the common purpose of developing relationships and to meet the apparent needs of its members. It also strives towards the spiritual growth of each member, and sets in motion plans for leading others into accepting Christ as their Lord and Saviour and into His discipleship.

The Core of Values of the Group:

The core values of the group must grow out of each member's relationship to God and their fellowmen. It must be community and relationship based. Four key relationships are to be seen in a successful small group.

• God-to-Man - Acts 2:42 "They continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine"
• Man-to-God - Acts 2:47 "Praising God"
• Man-to-Man - Acts 2:44 "All that believed were together, and had all things common"
• Man-to-Men - Acts 2:46 "Breaking bread from house to house...favour with all the people."