How not to lead a small group
Small groups are an integral part of many youth ministries. Good small group communities foster deep relationships between students and adult leaders. In the process, they push students toward God in very real ways. Unfortunately, small groups aren’t always good. Sometimes, they can be lackluster, the kind people attend only because they feel obligated to do so. The question is, what characteristics distinguish a good small group from a lackluster one?
Over the last year, I’ve gained some insight into the answer to this question as I’ve worked with professor, author, and researcher, Terry Linhart, on a study for InterVarsity, who’s graciously given us permission to blog about some of our findings. During this study, we asked students to describe their worst experience in a small group Bible study. More often than not, the examples students gave came from small group Bible studies they participated in with their youth group. Based on their anecdotes, to facilitate a good Bible study, here are seven things you shouldn’t do.
1. Don’t praise inconsistent attendance. Offer grace to people who miss but also let them know that they were missed because of the value they bring to the group. True community happens when we notice when people are absent and dare to find out why.
