Leading a Home Group

Every Believer has a calling into ministry in the Body of Christ. "Any act of Christian service which helps direct men and women into fellowship with Jesus Christ is a ministry."

It is God's plan that those who call on His name should be like Him in attitude and behaviour. The church exists not just to collect followers, but to transform them. The ultimate goal of a home group leader is life change: to help group members grow in Christ-like character through learning, loving one another and contributing of themselves and their resources.

The life span of a home group is ideally 2 years. the aim being that the leader takes responsibility to disciple an apprentice leader who will then lead a new group. The ideal size should be between 6 to 12 members.

As a home group leader you are not expected to do everything. A good leader delegates responsibilities which enable people to grow in confidence and also helps build community as you work together. You are however responsible for making sure that the group happens, that people know what their responsibilities are. Therefore you will need to keep in regular contact with your members especially with those who do not send apologies and are not attending on a regular basis.

Don't get comfortable as a group; keep pushing each other out of your comfort zones. Be an encourager, thank people, and affirm them. Model what you expect others to do.

There is a resource library at Gracepoint for your use. There is a lot of so called 'Christian resources' on the market which we would not recommend. Please contact the Church if you are unsure of a possible resource you are thinking of using.

As a leader you will meet with other group leaders and be supported by the Home Groups lay executive committee.

Objectives of a Home Group

To establish a set of values (in addition to the GRACEPOINT values) which as a group you will hold each other accountable to.

• Pursue Spiritual Transformation through studying the bible together. Not just gaining information but allowing the Holy Spirit to transform each others lives.
• Build authentic relationships. Any group should be a place where friendships are built and therefore where people are challenged in their daily walk with God and are held accountable to each other. All in a context of mutual love and support.
• Community. As relationships are formed community will be built. We all need to have a sense of belonging and feel part of something. Members should share responsibilities within the group and not want to miss a meeting!
• Conflict. Thankfully God made us different and in any community/relationship there will always be conflict. Don't ignore it, embrace it and occasionally agree to disagree!
• Looking out. As a group builds community with each other you should begin to think about how you could help others in your neighbourhood. The church is involved with a variety of missions and would be happy to help you.
• Preparation. As already mentioned you are not expected to do everything but you must prepare prayerfully and ensure that everyone knows what they are doing.
• Be Supportive to one another within the group whenever it is required. E.g. Provide Love meals to families when sick or in need.
• Fun. Organize socials, eat together, go to the cinema etc. Have fun!

How to run a Home Group

If you are forming a new group:

• Agree on a day and time that suits you (no meeting should last more than 2 hours)
• Contact each person who is interested in joining and invite them to a meeting.
• Be prepared with a suggestion of what to start studying.
• Offer refreshments as people arrive.
• Welcome everyone and get each person to say a little about them themselves.
• Ask what expectations they have of the group. (Share some of the objectives).
• Be clear that each person in the group will have a responsibility to each other and the group.