As leaders, we're called to make disciples. So, let's continually look for fresh ideas that help people take their next steps toward maturity in Christ. Here's one idea Jay learned from a colleague that helps group members verbalize the next step they'll take based on their group study.

Chris and Jay trade stories from life and ministry, then land on a simple small group practice that turns Bible study into real-world obedience. We want our groups to aim beyond good teaching and build a culture of transformation, next steps, and steady growth.
• quick catch up on family, travel, and real life pressures that shape leadership
• five core competencies (see below)
• a practical disciple-making habit: end group by breaking into twos or threes to name application
• why speaking intentions out loud helps truth move from head to heart
• using soft accountability and weekly challenges to support follow through
• cautions about breakouts becoming side groups and how to keep it temporary
• remembering that everyone is in a different spiritual place and avoiding putting people on the spot
• modeling spiritual maturity as a journey rather than perfection
put some of these things into practice, give them a try.

As promised, here are Pastor Matt's Five Core Competencies of a BH Group Leader:

1. Knowledge of God
2. Character
3. Teaching Ability
4. Encouragement of Others
5. Team Mentality

In upcoming podcasts, you can hear Matt talk about knowledge of God. We'll also meet with Parker Snider to review the Brook Hills Group Values.

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.

We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.

Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Lifetime Show Notes

Brook Hills Pages:

• The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
• Small Group Leader Resources Page
• Small Group Discipleship Resources
• Small Groups @ Brook Hills

More topics were discussed on this podcast episode than any other. Jay had heard Alex tell church guests about groups and was eager to host him and Chandra on the podcast along with Chris Amaro, of course. Here's what all we discussed: merging people with differing life stages or circumstances into a group, how Alex uses the Group Guide to prepare to lead a session, Shawn Ryan's journey and long podcasts, why people need community, dealing with levels of participation in groups, volunteers enlisting volunteers, special-needs families, welcoming, a posture of serving and how it changes everything, and probably a few more things! Listen in for some ideas about making your group great!

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.

We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.

Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Lifetime Show Notes

Brook Hills Pages:

• The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
• Small Group Leader Resources Page
• Small Group Discipleship Resources
• Small Groups @ Brook Hills

In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss both launching (or relaunching after the summer break) and welcoming guests well. Don't miss Jay's stark discovery about guests and groups. As they talk about launching, they cover the importance of expecting guests, arriving early, and creating a welcoming environment that helps people feel at home. They also share practical suggestions for a successful launch, including praying, reaching out to everyone, and providing a few snacks. Listen in for helpful reminders and practical tips for starting the season strong and making guests feel welcome.

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.

We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.

Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Lifetime Show Notes

Brook Hills Pages:

• The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
• Small Group Leader Resources Page
• Small Group Discipleship Resources
• Small Groups @ Brook Hills