Steve Gladen, pastor of small groups at Saddleback Church for more than a decade, takes you step-by-step toward a healthy, dynamic group with focus and purpose. For the new small group leader, the seasoned leader who feels their small group lacks purpose, or the leader who is itching to move their small group to the next level, Leading Small Groups with Purpose is the road map to follow.
Every chapter includes ideas that you can implement immediately, as well as ways to shape your small group over time. With Gladen's expert help, you will define success clearly, develop a personal leadership plan, invite members into your group, and help members fulfill the Great Commission and the Great Commandment.
Table of contents
Part One Before you begin your group
1. You are part of God's plan : discovering your purpose
2. Your role in God's plan : giving your group purpose
3. It starts with you : your plan and your group's plan
4. Where two or three are gathered : gathering your friends
Part Two What to do in your group
5. Fellowship: it all starts with biblical community
6. Fellowship : practical suggestions - how to build a strong foundation
7. Discipleship : Encouraging spiritual growth - developing your members
8. Discipleship : Practical suggestions
9. Ministry : Guiding members into opportunities to serve - mobilizing
10. Ministry : Practical suggestions
11. Evangelism : Reaching beyond your group
12. Evangelism : Practical suggestions
13. Worship : Experiencing the presence of God
14. Worship : Practical suggestions
Part Three Keeping your group focused
15. How to keep your group on track : Obstacles and opportunities for growth
16. It continues with you! : How God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways
Steve Gladen has been pastor of small groups at Saddleback Church since 1998. He oversees more than 3,500 adult small groups at Saddleback and loves seeing a big church become small through true community developed in group life. He is the author of Small Groups with Purpose
"Healthy small group communities are a key component of today's thriving churches. And healthy leadership is the key to healthy groups. In these pages Steve lays out a step-by-step plan for keeping both groups and their leaders healthy and vibrant. Leading Small Groups with Purpose is a must-read!"--Nelson Searcy, lead pastor, The Journey Church; founder, Church Leader Insights; author, Engage