Focus on Others

"I remember interviewing at an Asian ethnic church. I arrived a few miniutes early and was introduced as a candidate for the pastoral intern for a youth group filled with Asian Americans. I was quickly welcomed. The parents smiled, shook my hand, and told me how thankful they were to have me there that Sunday. The parents said; "We need you to disciple our kids. We want you to serve here. We need you to teach our kids the bible."

Everybody wants to grow spiritually. One of the best ways to grow spiritually in a small group is by focusing on the unchurched.

Advantage: Providing a seeker friendly small group helps yoU GROW.
1.) It's a good way for you to think more critically about scripture. When you welcome others in the group, especially non Christians, they will challenge us in ways that Christians won't. i.e.: ask TOUGH questions, offer different perspectives, etc...

2.) It helps you develop patience and love for those who are "not like us". It will also teach us to convey biblical perspectives & truths without using Christian jargon.

3.) Most "new" Christians and unbelievers our age would prefer to study the bible and grow with people that they like and trust, you!

4.) It will remind you that spiritual growth is multi-dimensional and that Christians should not only rely on bible study to grow.

5.) It provides opportunities for Christians that don't know many non-Christians to learn how to relate to non-Christians.

6.) The unchurched have a steep learning curve. This allows everyone in the group an opportunity to collaboratively help the "new" person to grow.

7.) A new person's vibrant quest for knowledge and desire for a relationship with Christ is contagious and motivates the "older" Christians to continue pursuing God.

Disadvantages of non seeker friendly small group.
1.)When you don't hold seeker friendly bible studies, you are indirectly saying "Bible study is for Christians only." It's almost like hiding your passion for Christ. So either you as a Christian group have no passion or you're hiding it.

2.) The unchurched that do attend small group are less likely to benefit from bible studies.
"Suppose some strangers are in your worship service, when you are praising God with your spirit. If they don't understand you, how will they know to say, "Amen"? You may be worshiping God in a wonderful way, but no one else will be helped." 1 Corinthians 14:16-17