How can I multiply a Small Group?
Make multiplication the goal in the beginning of the Small Group’s formation to establish that value up front. (Matthew 28:19-20; Proverbs 29:18)
Know when a Small Group is “pregnant” and prepare to push the new “baby” out. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2)
View each member as a potential leader for future Small Groups and test them by giving them simple things to do. (Acts 6:1-7)
Cover all Leaders through a relational structure for ongoing coaching. (Luke 10:1-23)
Breakdowns
Cluster (Leaders and Apprentice): When one Small Group breaks into two or more separate groups, but continues to meet at the same time and location to better facilitate discussion and involvement of members
Branch (Apprentice): When a Small Group grows and reproduces another Small Group.
Key signal: when regular attendance is a steady eight or more members.
Two ways this can occur:
The new leader stays with the original Small Group, and the original Leader leaves to pioneer the new branch with his/her portion of the Small Group.
The new Leader leaves to lead the newly branched Small Group.
Plant (Leader and Apprentice): When the tripod leaves to start another Small Group with a whole new people group who would not, or could not attach to the current Small Group (Mark 6:7)
Extension (Leader and Apprentice): When a Leader and other members go out of their current Small Group to reach a people group.
L2L TALK
What information, insights, or challenges regarding the Small Group Leader stood out to you? Why?
What method(s) could be applied to your group to multiply your Small Group?