All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper ), and to prayer... And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity — all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47 NLT)
They met together anywhere they could. They met together as often as they could. They joined together with people who believed Jesus is the Christ, because so many others did not. Whenever they gathered together with other believers, they drew strength and encouragement from one another. Gathering together helped them grow, not just numerically, but also in their relationship with God.
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful... And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:12-17 NIV)
Small groups give us a place to make our faith real. It's one thing to listen to a preacher or sing worship songs. That helps us encounter God. In a small group, though, we work through what we heard. We read Scripture and talk it through with others, learning from their perspectives. When we gather together, we have a safe place to begin practicing what we believe. We grow stronger in our faith.
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17 NIV)
Small groups help us grow because other believers are trying to walk toward "the chair," too. They want to grow in righteousness, holiness and worship. They haven't arrived yet, either, but they are heading in the same direction. Small groups help us walk together with God.
Let's take a look at what Traci Kersker, our Family Minister, has to say about groups:
"God has desired for us to grow in Him and to exercise our faith in the context of community since the creation of the very first family. A small group of closely knit people trying to live life will expose the rough edges on each person at one time or another. This in return provides opportunity to bear with one another, and to forgive. Is it lived out perfectly? No, but it is an environment where we can fall, receive grace, and be encouraged to once again walk together with God."
How about you? Do you have a small group where you are encouraged in your walk together with God?
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