Transforming Church

Growing People through Small Groups

In this book, David Stark and Betty Weiland present a case for building organic, principle-driven small groups. The focus is to grow people, not programs.

The authors recognize the importance of meeting people where they are in their spiritual journey. They cite the example of Jesus, who worked with his disciples this way. He began where they were, and over time He led them where He wanted them to go.

The key question they pose is, "What kind of small group would you rearrange your schedule to be part of?" They suggest leaders build small groups around six motivations: relationship-building, felt needs, affinity, passions, spiritual hunger, and service-oriented tasks.

They have also identified a series of principles upon which small groups are based, and that all groups go through a life cycle. They emphasize the need for mature group leaders, who are reflective enough to answer three questions:
How is each person doing?
How is the group doing?
How am I doing as leader?

These leaders are creating fertile ground for people to grow. These leaders also need to be nurtured and held accountable by a coach who leads them.

This book is a helpful guide for those who choose small groups as a major vehicle for leading people deeper into discipleship.