Our Life Groups draw heavily on the experience of Saddleback Church in America, where Rick Warren is the Senior Pastor, and follow their tried and tested pattern of filling our small group counters with ‘cheeses’ of different colours:

Fellowship

Membership of the body of Christ means that we can identify with a family – God’s family. The church in Acts was a fellowship where people “ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” Jesus shared his life as well as his ministry with a close group of followers – he saw the value of close relationships. Small groups should be safe, supportive and enjoyable.

Discipleship

Again in Acts, we read that the growing church devoted itself to the Apostle teaching which means that they devoted themselves to growing in Christ and maturity, and not just in the Temple courts but in their own homes, at other times. Bible study was never just a church thing for the early church and nor was it only a Sabbath activity.

Ministry

We also know these small groups in Acts chapter 2 did ministry. “They gave to anyone as they had need.” These groups became an outlet for support, ministry, benevolence, charity and shared meals – as a group! Small groups need to have a heart that is as equally facing outward in ministry, as it is inward in fellowship.

Evangelism

One of the most amazing things about the church in Acts is the way it grew. People seemed to flock to their cause. Evangelising the lost was their mission and they embraced it! If we only go fishing one day a week – our weekend service – then that’s the only chance you’ve got to introduce people to Jesus. And then only if you can get them through the door. But if we meet throughout the week in groups that have filled their counters with fellowship, discipleship, ministry and worship – evangelism will start happening all over the place all through the week.

Worship

Breaking bread and prayer were as important to the first followers of Jesus as they had been to him. What this meant he remained as powerfully present in their everyday lives after his ascension as he had done before. It opened them up to new and fresh Spirit filled encounters with Jesus on a daily basis. “Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done.” We will encourage one another to make worship, in a variety of different ways, and equal part of our Life Group experience.

To join a Life Group, please contact Helen in the church office – office@ccb.org.uk. There is a Life Group for you at Christ Church Beckenham.