God has blessed our church in several ways. One of the ways God has blessed us is by growing very quickly. So the question is, is there any way to make a fast growing church seem small? Here at VHCC, we know that helping our members and attendees “get connected” is essential. We’ve learned that a real sense of belonging happens in small groups. And that is so important. But even more vital than that, we’ve learned that the best place for people to grow spiritually is in a small group where they’re known. So how do you connect? Read the following to find out!
Click Here to watch our Small Groups Video.Why Join a Small Group?
- You will understand the Bible better in a small group. If you’ve ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and wanted to stop that person and say, “But what about…?" or “I don’t understand!” then a small group is for you! Preaching and teaching is one way communication. You listen while the speaker speaks. One way communication is fine for imparting knowledge but is not as effective as a small group for personal application. In a small group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion of the text, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own personal situations and that happens best in small groups.
It’s not unusual for people to say, “It would really help if I could sit down and talk with some others and discuss the Sunday message. I get part of it but some of it I just need help understanding how to apply it to my life.” Small groups allow you to do that.
- You will begin to really feel like part of God’s family. Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently telephone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You’ll discover that your needs and problems are not unique; we’re all in the same boat. It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process.
Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used to describe our relationship to other believers. We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another’s burdens, and build up one another. The only way you can obey these commands is in a small group! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. If you’re lonely, the answer to your problem is to join a group.
- Prayer will become more meaningful to you. Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group of 6 to 12, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you’ll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and we find answers to the needs in our lives.
- You will be able to handle stress and pressure better. Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You’ll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you. When someone loses a job, or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter - these are practical needs that will be naturally taken care of through your small group. Many people in our church could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn’t been for the support of their group. In addition, we have a number of special support groups that deal with problems like alcoholism, financial difficulty, abuse, and other needs.
- You will have a natural way to share Christ with friends, relatives, and work associates. It may be that some of your friends who don’t know the Lord wouldn’t be caught dead in a church. They have some preconceived ideas about church and just the thought makes them defensive. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home or office setting. In a small group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot". When your friend sees the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him more receptive to the Good News.
- You will develop leadership skills you never knew you had! The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or "gifts" to benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately, most Christians remain as Sunday morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily "sit and listen" situations. As you share and participate in a relaxed small group setting, you’ll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.
- You will deepen your understanding of worship. Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a pastor teaching. But the truth is that worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group where believers can pray or sing together.
- You will be a New Testament Christian! The Book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for His people to grow and have their needs met in the church. We will never be able to hire enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our church family. God never intended for it to be that way.
Consider these verses:
- “They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Every day they continued to meet together… they broke bread in their homes and ate together.. and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42, 44, 46-47
- “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 5:42
- “Greet also the church that meets at their house.” Romans 16:5
- “Aquilla and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord and so does the church that meets at their house.” 1 Corinthians 16:19
We are excited about the incredible potential of the network of small groups we’re building within VHCC. Small groups have these eight benefits that no believer can afford to pass up. If you’re not participating in a group, why not join one this week?
Small Group Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Small Group?
Most of our Small Groups are made up of 6 to 14 people who want to grow spiritually and connect with some friends who are going in the same direction. Sometimes the best description is simply a group of people who are like you and are looking for a way to become more like Christ. They’re not stuffy. In fact, there’s no better place to meet some people who really want to live life to the fullest.
- Are all Small Groups the same?
The short answer: NO! At VHCC we have all kinds of groups, because we have all kinds of people. We have groups for married couples, empty nesters, newlyweds couples, single adults, single parents, men’s groups, and women’s groups. We have groups designed for people who are investigating Christianity and groups for people who want to really dig into a book of the Bible. Some of our groups are focused on developing solid relationships with other believers. Other groups are centered around prayer or serving together in a ministry of the church.
- Why should I join a Small Group?
Here are four very important reasons. First, you’ll begin to understand the Bible better in a Small Group (there’s nothing like the chance to ask questions). Second, you’ll begin to feel like you’re part of God’s family (and not just a face in the crowd). Third, prayer will become more meaningful for you (your friends will be praying for you and with you). Finally, you’ll be able to handle stress and pressure better (when your friends are there for you life is a very different experience).
- Do I have to be a member of VHCC to join a Small Group?
No.
- How often does a Small Group meet?
Each group is different, but most of them meet weekly. Once you find a group that you are interested in, The group leader will let you know how often and where they meet.
- How long does a typical Small Group stay together?
The average study is 4-6 weeks. Some are longer, but one would know before you get started.
- What happens at a Small Group meeting?
Every group is different but there are some common denominators. Most groups have a time for just hanging out, talking about the week and what’s going on in life. The central component is a study of something very relevant to the members of the group. It may be the study of a Book of the Bible. Or it might be a study like dealing with stress or building better relationships from a biblical perspective. Our groups are designed to encourage discussion and engage each person in the process. And then our groups have an opportunity to pray for each other.
- Where do the Small Groups meet?
Most of our groups meet in homes.
- Do any Small Groups meet on Sunday morning at the church?
Yes, there is a small group for "New Believers" called "Fresh Start" that meets during the first service at 9:00AM in room 611.
- Is there childcare available?
Every group deals with this issue in its own way. Some of the groups go in together and make arrangements for a baby sitter or take turns watching the children. Other groups require each participant to make their own arrangements.
- What if I don’t like the first group I try?
We encourage people to give the group you try a couple visits. Anytime you’re trying something new, it may need to grow on you. In addition, it may take a couple of times to begin to feel like you’re in the right place. But at the same time, we want you to find a group that fits you! So don’t be afraid to join another group if you don’t really feel good about the group you try.
- Can I start my own group?
We love it when people are interested in leading or hosting a group of their own. If you’d like more information about leading or hosting, please call the church office to find out more.
- How do I get into a group?
There are several options. (1) Sign-up at church at the Life Together tent. (2) Call the church office and give us your information and we will try to connect you with a group leader.
