We would like to continue to answer some questions you may have regarding the direction of small groups as we move to implement the adoption of the Long Range plan.
What curriculum will be available to guide our Bible Study/Small Group discussions?
This has been a very fun question to research and process. First, we wanted to let sound doctrine be our primary consideration. Doctrine is a codification of beliefs or a body of teachings or instructions, taught principles or positions, as the body of teachings in a branch of knowledge or belief system (Wikipedia – (Latin: doctrina)). It is important to teach what our church believes. Second, we want to make sure that our leadership is exposed to the teaching principles of sound doctrine. Finally, we want to encourage our small group leaders to have every kind of confidence in teaching the faith.
Will we all use the same quarterly, study guide or DVD?
Well, yes and no. Our end goal is to have one semester where the entire church can study together, but still allow for the groups to choose their study material for the remaining two semesters. We know that individual interest, leadership ability, and content delivery systems all play an important role in forming a Bible study that will develop friends and promote discipleship.
There are many choices for the basic Bible Study and Discipleship group to choose from. So let me see if we can help you put a fence around the field and let you graze where you need to graze. (Yes, I enjoyed VBS.) Think approved publishers. We know and trust the doctrinal stance of the following publishers – Lifeway, Threads, Serendipity House, Saddleback Resources, North point Resources and the church library are each a growing collection of small group resources.
Who will choose what is studied?
You and your leader will choose what is studied. First, the leader enlistment phase will ask leaders to choose material they feel comfortable leading. You will know the leader and topic of the small group when you sign up. We think this will be an effective system that will keep our Sunday School/Small Groups open to new members. This will provide an effective Bible Study that builds leaders and disciples believers.
What if I want to lead something that is not from an approved publisher?
Just ask. Larry Stehr and Freddie Pike have studied curriculum management and spiritual formation. They will look at the material and let you know if it is a suitable study for the small group.
Finally, if you want to follow the development of these articles and to make comments or pose more questions they are posted on Larry’s blog at FBCLarry.wordpress.com Larry and Freddie are also more than willing to sit down with your class or group and talk about how things could work for your group.
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