Leadership Group Guide - July 2023

1. Small groups with a functioning tripod have the best chance of thriving.

2. What is a tripod?

  • Leader/Facilitator: the primary group facilitator.

  • Apprentice: one who co-leads the group and is in training to lead their own small group within a year. They are typically the first to branch out as a “cluster” facilitator, “extension” group leader, or “branch” a new group.

  • Third Believer: a consistent member of the group who supports the leader and apprentice. Sometimes known as an “assistant” to the leader and apprentice. They would most logically be in line to become the next apprentice before ultimately becoming a leader of their own group. They would also be next in line to branch out as a “cluster” facilitator.

3. Small groups without a tripod tend not to last.

4. How to establish a tripod in an existing group:

  • Start sharing responsibility: as leaders, share the responsibility to shepherd the group with others in the group and potential tripod members will emerge.

    • Calls/Text Reminders: often the leader carries the responsibility to call/text group members. Other tripod members can share this responsibility. 

    • Group Facilitation: Intentionally schedule other members of the tripod to rotate in and facilitate group meetings. This enables others to gain experience and confidence in facilitating a meeting.

    • Clustering: When a group grows to 6 or more, a best practice is to “cluster” or break the group into groups of 3 or 4. This often enables greater conversation and transparency. This also allows newer facilitators to develop skills and confidence facilitating a smaller group.

    • One-to-one Discipleship: Often the leader carries the burden to disciple new members by themselves. Instead, leaders should share the responsibility with others in the group, particularly the tripod. This gets more people involved in shepherding the members of the group.

  • When leadership is demonstrated, formally ask people to be part of the tripod.

Discussion Questions & Application:

  1. How can you apply today’s conversation to establish or strengthen your tripod? Explain.

  2. Who are some potential tripod members in your group? Pray for them by name.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

All Small Group Leaders Celebration | September 9, 2023
We are so grateful for what you do as Small Group Leaders. We won’t be the church we are today if not for your commitment to partner with us in expanding God’s Kingdom. That’s why we want to celebrate with all of our Small Group Leaders at our next All Small Group Leaders Gathering. More information on this will be emailed to you within the month of July. Save the date and we hope to see you there!

Small Group Leaders Tutorials

If you have any questions or concerns, please email smallgroups@pearlside.org.


Life Matters | pearlside.org/life-matters
The Life Matters Ministry believes through strong marriages and families, we will build a strong church that is committed to making disciples, raising leaders, and planting churches. Visit pearlside.org/life-matters to see what workshops we have for you and your family.

Life Matters Workshops coming soon:

  • Marriage Huddle | Saturday, July 29

  • Premarital Coaching | Saturdays starting July 22

  • Financial Peace University | Tuesdays starting August 29