Trying to get bigger, many churches spend much time, energy, and money in the pursuit of church growth. But according to Ed Stetzer in a recent blog post at The Exchange, “The church needs to make getting small a priority. Church-health proponents are reminding pastors that the bigger the church gets, the smaller it has to get. In our research survey, two-thirds of pastors told us they believe discipleship happens most effectively either one-on-one or in a group of fewer than five.”
To read more, see http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2014/february/right-culture-for-community.html.
Totally agree. A small group allows relationships to attain a level of intimacy and transparency that is hardly feasible in a larger context. It is from this base that Christian discipleship can find a very fertile soil for spiritual growth. It is most rewarding to experience “koinonia” as we openly share our joys, shortcomings, pains and dreams with our brothers and sisters. A deepening of relationships involves the willingness and risk to become vulnerable. In the realization of our weaknesses and in the joy of a loving and encouraging community God can powerfully reach out as He molds us into His image.