Our focus as we pursue our mission together to make disciples of Jesus is to see the vast majority of our church community join a Discipleship Group. These groups are intended, under God, to form the ‘backbone’ of a culture of discipleship and effective pastoral care amongst our church into the future.
Keen to be involved? Email philip@chatswoodbaptist.com.au
Introduction to Discipleship Groups
Discipleship Groups are all about learning to follow Jesus together. The overall purpose of joining a Discipleship Group is to grow in maturity as a disciple of Jesus and to help others grow to maturity in Christ, through helping each other understand, apply and live by the Word of God in all of life. They are not ‘social groups’, nor ‘study groups’ – they are Discipleship Groups.
What is a Discipleship Group?
A small group of around 5 people (usually ranging between 3 to 7 people) committed to helping each other follow Jesus. The core aspect of group life is meeting regularly to encourage each other in personal discipleship of Jesus through sharing, Bible study and prayer, but it extends beyond this into other less structured social connection, practical and pastoral support, prayer and communication. The group is led by a Discipleship Group Leader, who is appointed, trained and supported by the pastoral team. There is a focus on interactive, mutual learning and encouragement, and the Leader facilitates the group, helping it stay on track, rather than acting primarily as a teacher.
What does it mean to be involved in a Discipleship Group?
- meet weekly (45min – 1:30 hours) with your group for sharing, study & application of the Bible (linked to Sunday sermon), & prayer for each other and for others
- being prayerful for the members of your group beyond the formal meeting
- turning to each other for pastoral care and relational support
- socialising as a group, often including others in and outside of the church
Expectations for Joining a Group
(1) Commitment & Communication around Meeting Regularly
The purpose of keeping the groups small is to encourage depth of relationship, commitment to meeting regularly, and flexibility in group life through active communication. Group members are expected to commit to meeting weekly through the majority of the year and communicating with the group when obstacles or issues arise.
(2) Open, Respectful and Loving Relationships
Group members need to be trusting, open and honest to help each other grow in obedience to Jesus. They therefore need to treat what is shared as confidential unless stated otherwise, and need to be gentle and respectful in how they relate. We must also be committed to loving and direct resolution of any conflict or perceived offence with other members, involving the help of the group leader where necessary.
(3) Welcoming to others and committed to Multiplying
Groups need some stability, but they are intended to grow and multiply over time (1-2 years). Members need to be open to inviting and welcoming in others and splitting or sending members off to form new groups. All invitations should be discussed with existing group members, particularly with the group leader.
Interested in Joining a Group?
We have men’s and women’s groups as well as mixed groups which meet during the week. Groups meet in various ways, including in-person or online. If you’re interested in joining one of the groups, get in touch to find out more.