But speaking the truth in love, let us grow in every way into him who is the head — Christ. From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part. —Ephesians 4:15-16 (CSB)

Rick Howerton once said, “Great small groups celebrate success, suffer with one another, and expect God to do more than they can do themselves.” The importance of a healthy and thriving small group culture can make all the difference in the life of a local church. The following S.T.R.O.N.G. small groups approach is a simple tool for small group leaders to consider as we seek to make disciples of all nations.

Scripture.

Studying God’s Word with the goal of Christlikeness.

“Speaking the truth in love…”

  • Move from head knowledge to heart transformation.

Treasure.

Praying with and for one another.

“…grow in every way into Him…”

  • Humbly go to the Lord on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Relationships.

Building and strengthening community.

“…for building itself up in love…”

  • Seek harmony in biblical community.

Orient.

Equipping and maturing disciples.

“…promotes the growth of the body…”

  • Realize our world needs healthy disciples of Jesus Christ.

Nurture.

Caring for and encouraging one another.

“…fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament…”

  • Hold our brothers and sisters in Christ in the joy of the Lord.

Giving.

Sacrificing time, energy, and resources for others.

“…the proper working of each individual part.”

  • Heed to the calling of serving others before ourselves.

Putting it all together…

The Pillars of a Small Group: Scripture (God’s Word) and Treasure (Prayer)

The Privilege of a Small Group: Relationships (Community)

The Purpose of a Small Group: Orient (Equip) and Nurture (Care)

The Provision of a Small Group: Giving (Ministry)

Closing Thought…

Growth in groups matters because Gospel transformation is a worthwhile goal.

S.  T.  R.  O.  N.  G.  Evaluation

(Scripture. Treasure. Relationships. Orient. Nurture. Giving.)

Where is my small group thriving?

Where does my small group need fresh touchpoints?

How can I lead with tenacity?