Small Groups
"We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us." 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Small Group Definition
A small group is an intentional gathering of Christian believers who covenant together to fulfill the Great Commission by living out the gospel in their community. Small groups meet regularly for Bible study, prayer, and to implement missional strategies.
Why a network of small groups?
We operate as a network of small groups because we believe they are a great environment for fellowship, discipleship, ministry, and missions. Functioning as a network allows for large opportunities like major mission projects, large teaching forums, men's ministry, or women's ministry. The small groups that make up the network allow for the intimate interaction of accountability and exercising spiritual gifts. We see the “big” and the “small” environments as complimentary.
Who are the small groups for?
Everyone! Small groups are intentionally organized by geography. That means that small groups are a family with a diversity of ages and life stages. Small groups are a place where we learn from one another and share life together. This doesn't mean that we don't have ministries to specific life stages. It means that those ministries flow from the network of small groups.
What makes Grace Point small groups different?
Some churches offer small groups as one of the many ministries of the church's programs. We might say they are a church with small groups. In contrast, Grace Point small groups are not just what we do, they are who we are. We might say we are a church of small groups. We desire for the ministry of our church to flow through and from our small groups.
What is a "Small Group Leader"?
A Small Group Leader is what we call the person who facilitates and shepherds the small group.
What is a "Small Group Coach"?
A Small Group Coach is what we call the overseer of a network of small groups.
What is the typical "format" of a small group?
Every small group is different. The most common structure is sharing a meal, prayer, Bible study, and doing missions together.
Why join a small group?
Small groups are where we share life together on mission. The Bible doesn't say the church is like a family, it says the church IS a family. In our world, clubs and crowds are everywhere you look. Superficial friendships, casual interactions, and godless values make up the dominant colors of the tapestry of our culture. The Church is called to be different and marked by powerful, authentic, and Christ-centered community. We seek to create "pockets of community" through small groups. Here are some of the benefits of being involved in a small group:
- You will be known and accepted.
- You can be verbal and discuss important life issues.
- You can be accountable to a spiritual mentor and challenged to grow spiritually.
- You can get personalized applications of biblical truths and find real help for the real problems you face.
Do all small groups study the same thing?
Nope. It is up to each small group to decide what to study. We have a catalog of recommended and approved studies. There are times we want the entire church to be on the same page and all small groups will be using the same material. Small Group Leaders can request specific studies from the SG Coach for approval. The approval process is primarily for theological alignment.
Can I just show up?
Most people are not typically comfortable attending a small group “cold,” so we do our best to put you in touch with someone in the small group (typically the SG Leader) before you go. That way you can get more details about what to expect and “know” at least one person. Visit the Connection Point on Sunday and let them know you'd like to join a small group!
Where do small groups meet?
Small groups can meet anywhere! They may meet in someone’s home, coffee shops, or the YMCA. Since we (the people) are the church, the building does not really matter
Is childcare provided?
Grace Point as the "mothership" does not provide childcare. It is up to each small group to decide. Some small groups may choose to have a lesson for the children in a separate room and some may choose to include the children in the content time with the adults. Since children are part of the family we encourage their inclusion at some level.
Can I switch small groups:?
Yes, but don't give up too quickly. Our recommendation is to attend at least three weeks before moving to a different small group. Keep in mind there is no perfect small group! Talk with one of the leaders at the Connection Point to switch small groups or fill out the "Questions About Small Groups" form at the bottom of this section.
Can I join a small group in a different area than where I live?
The goal is for everyone to attend the small group closest to their home. We understand this is not always realistic. For example, there may not be one in your neighborhood or the small group closest to you may meet on Wednesdays and you are only available on a Thursday. The most important thing is that you get plugged in to one! Being in a small group close to your home allows you to be “on mission” for Christ in your community with others from your community.
How do I get into a small group?
If you have a friend or family member who is in a small group, attending theirs is always a great start! Click the "SIGN UP" icon on the home page.
How can I volunteer to serve in leadership of a small group?
The leadership ranges from coaches, leaders, hosts, apprentices, and so forth. Click the "SIGN UP" icon on the home page.
What else do you have other than small groups?
Small groups are really who we are. We do have program-based ministry for children and students through high school, but that is the majority of our programs. We do not have typical age-graded Sunday school classes. At the end of the day, ministry at Grace Point just looks different. We seek to give as much of the ministry as possible to the non-paid, everyday Christ-follower because we know that we are all ministers of the Gospel under the true head of the church, Jesus.
What are Spiritual H.A.B.I.T.S.?
Spiritual H.A.B.I.T.S. are disciplines to help Christians mature in their faith. Click HERE to learn more.
How are the SG Networks Organized?
Small Group Regional Network Map
Network 1: Troutman & Mooresville
Network 2: Sherrills Ford, Terrell, Denver, & Stanley
Network 3: Huntersville, Cornelius, & Davidson
Network 1: Troutman & Mooresville
Network 2: Sherrills Ford, Terrell, Denver, & Stanley
Network 3: Huntersville, Cornelius, & Davidson
