GROWTH GROUPS
Growth Groups' Mission is:
"To build a foundation of faith in Jesus Christ towards Christ-like
maturity."
What is a Growth Group?
Growth Groups are representative of the early New
Testament Church. The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for
His people to grow and have their needs met in the church. We will never be
able to hire enough professional pastors to meet ALL the individual needs in
our church family. These needs, which can be met through loving Growth
Groups, included:
the need to love and be loved;
the need to serve and be served; the need to
know and be known;
the need to speak and be spoken to;
and the need to celebrate and be celebrated.
A Growth Group is an intentional gathering of three to
twelve individuals who are working together towards becoming fully devoted
followers of Jesus Christ, while developing authentic Biblical friendships.
What do you do in a Growth Group?
Each Growth Group is unique. Most groups include a
time for growing friendships, intentional prayer, studying God's Word, and
reaching out to others with a mission's mindset.
What do Growth Groups study?
Every Growth Group studies the Word of God, but in different ways with
questions, discussion, and shared insights. The materials are designed for
discussion and personal application. Occasionally, we will have a
church-wide study that some of the groups will use. All material has been
approved by the Adult Ministry Pastor for content and application.
Where do Growth Groups meet?
Most
Growth Groups meet in homes where the
setting has a family atmosphere to build relationships and provide support.
Currently, we have groups meeting in Warren, Howland, Cortland, Champion,
and the Bristolville area. Chances are we have a group meeting near you ...
or we could start one!
How can I get involved in an
Growth Group?
Contact Pastor Scott in our church
office, 330.856.3496, or by email at
SPraxl@northmarchurch.com.
Six Reasons why Growth Groups are Important:
- Growth Groups are Biblically based.
Acts 2:42-47 Acts 5:42 Acts 8:3 Acts 12:12 Acts 16:32 Acts 16:40 Acts 20:20
- Growth Groups are the most effective way
to shepherd the whole flock in a growing church.
Exodus 18:17-27 Mark 3:14 Romans 15:14 Colossians 3:16 1 Thessalonians 5:11
- Growth Groups encourage the use of
spiritual gifts by all the members.
Colossians 1:7 Colossians 4:7 1 Timothy 4:4-6 2 Timothy 4:3-5 1 Corinthians 12 Romans 12:1-8
- Growth Groups multiply competent
ministers and teachers of the Word of God.
Matthew 9:36-38 Matthew 28:18-20 2 Timothy 2:2 Hebrews 13:7
- Growth Groups foster Biblical love among
people who need to know the love of Christ.
John 13:35 1 Corinthians 13:13 Galatians 5:13 Ephesians 5:2 - Growth Groups promote fellowship, unity,
and accountability among God's people.
Acts 4:32 Romans 12:5 1 Corinthians 12:12,14,25-26 Ephesians 4:3,5,13
1 John 1:3,6-7 Hebrews 10:24-25