Here are some articles and resources I’ve come across over the past few weeks that I hope and pray you find both edifying and helpful to you.
3 Small Group Myths – Philip Nation does a great job exposing and debunking the following three commons myths that people have about small groups: (1) Small groups are just for fellowship, (2) People in small groups should stay together indefinitely, and (3) Anyone can lead a small group.
8 Ways to Comfort the Suffering – Suffering is inevitable in the Christian life. Small Groups are meant to be a primary support during times of trial and heartache. This post by Evan Welcher offers some practical tips to remember when ministering to someone who is suffering.
Is Bible Memory Essential? – John Piper offers a great explanation on the importance of scripture memory in the life of a Christian. The sound clip is only a few minutes long so give it a listen. And afterward, listen to this clip offering practical tips for memorizing scripture…
6 Types of Grace – “God’s grace is the most powerful force in the universe, so I would have to argue that it’s the most beautiful word in the universe. It reaches you where you are and takes you where God wants you to be. It has the power to do something that nothing else can do: transform you at the causal core of who you are as a human being – your heart. Grace, however, is also one of the most overused words in the church. I’m afraid that we use all these theologically beautiful words without knowing what we’re saying…” – Paul Tripp
The Grace that Saves is the Grace that Leads Us Home – This article by Kevin DeYoung offers a nice summary of what we’ve learned through the recent Hole in Our Holiness study that our small groups ministry went through. I hope you realize how important these biblical truths are. God’s grace both saves and sanctifies. You can’t have salvation without sanctification.
Finally, let me leave you with this panel discussion on sanctification from the Together for the Gospel 2014 Conference for your own benefit and edification:
You are loved!
Will
