Frequently Asked Questions
- Why a Small Group Ministry?
The Small Group Ministry is biblical, allows exponential growth, allows the Holy Spirit to work through gifts and ministries, allows high mobilization of members for ministry, allows fast expansion of leadership base by developing leaders in a direct and systematic manner, allows value changes to take place in the SGs, allows discipleship in the context of Body Life and allows the Church to reach out through community evangelism.
- What are the activities of the SGs?
The SG meetings can typically be defined as the 4Ws – Welcome, Worship, Word and Works. Unofficially, there is usually the 5th W affectionately known as “Wallop” for snacking or eating after the meeting. Whilst the study of God’s word is part of the meeting, it is not all a SG meeting is about. Much time is spent developing fellowship with one another.
- How often and where does a SG meet?
SGs meet at least twice a month on a weekday (usually Tuesdays or Fridays) in one of its members’ house. Each meeting lasts about 2 hours. The location of the various SGs and meeting times are printed in the Church Bulletin as well as this website.
- Who can join a SG?
Anyone and from all walks of life! Even if you have never been to a church!
- Can I bring my children to a SG meeting?
Absolutely! Children are welcomed to SG meetings. Jesus delighted in children too. "But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.'" (Luke 18 : 16) [NIV]
- Is it necessary to join a SG?
Well, the early church deemed it as part of life. Their lives were transformed to the glory of God and they were richly blessed. " Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved." (Acts 2 : 46 – 47) [NIV] Moreover, it is also written in Hebrews 10 : 24 – 25 [NIV] "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
- What is in it for me?
A SG provides pastoral care through its SG Leader and the other members of the group. Because of its size, a SG allows every one to get to know each other very well thus promoting a stronger sense of fellowship amongst its members. It allows community life in a closer setting compared to the larger setting of the Sunday Worship. Many have testified on how their spiritual lives have been transformed and grown through constant participation in shared discussions on the Bible, their personal experiences and knowledge. Moreover, there have been numerous testimonies of how members are encouraged and learn how to pray with confidence. It also provides a non-threatening atmosphere for non-Christians to learn more about the faith.
- How do I find a suitable SG for me?
We encourage you to attend the SG nearest to your home. Feel free to approach any SG leader or the Pastor or contact the church office if you are not sure.
- What is expected of me should I join a SG?
Confidentiality is a very important element of SG life as its members share personal issues within their own group. Punctuality is also appreciated.
- Do I need a certain level of Bible knowledge before I qualify to attend a SG?
No. As emphasized earlier, a SG focuses on the edification and nurturing of the members life as a Christian as well as the living out of their life. Much time is spent on fellowshipping with and encouraging of one another and sharing of one another’s burdens. SG members come with different levels of understanding of the Bible and all will learn from one another through their sharing and discussion.
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