groups - Calvary Community Church

small
groups
C A LVA R Y C O M M U N I T Y C H U R C H S M A L L G R O U P S
small
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LEADER HANDBOOK
Cultivating Biblical Community as a Way of Life
small
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Table of Contents
Thank You for Joining the Small Groups Ministry . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . 1
Pastor Shawn’s Welcome Letter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Calvary’s Vision 2020 and Core Purposes . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . 3
BIBLICAL FOUNDATION FOR SMALL GROUPS
Core Purpose for Calvary’s Small Groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Why Have Small Groups? . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 6
Small Group Leadership Team. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
LET’S GET STARTED
What Do We Expect from our Leaders? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
How Do People Get Connected into a Small Group? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Starting Well: Contacting Potential Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Launching Your First Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
My Group Members Contact Sheet . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 15
WAYS TO GROW YOUR SMALL GROUP
Creating Environments for Growth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Choosing Helpful Curriculum . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . 18
Recommended Curriculum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Growing in Prayer. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 22
Serving Others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Inviting New Members . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . 25
Recognizing the Stage of your Small Group . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . 26
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Identifying and Developing Future Leaders. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 29
Celebrating and Multiplying Groups . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . . 30
PRACTICES OF A HEALTHY GROUP
Resolving Conflict Biblically. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Maintaining Healthy Boundaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Community Care Resources . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 35
Protecting Confidentiality. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 36
Managing Childcare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Sample Ice Breaker Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Biblical Principles and Key Scriptures
for Conflict Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Biblical “One Another” Phrases . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 41
Thank you for Joining the Small Groups Ministry
Spiritual growth does not happen in isolation. We believe God uses
people and relationships to help us become more like Jesus Christ. Just
as God constantly invites us into deeper relationship with Him, He calls
us into significant authentic relationships with one another in the body
of Christ.
Small groups are a wonderful and practical way for us to engage in
biblical community as a way of life. The mission of Calvary’s small groups
is to create environments where we can experience God’s power, extend
His grace to one another, and grow in becoming like Jesus in every area
of our lives. As a small group leader, you play a key role in establishing
friendships and engaging in activities where the Holy Spirit can move
people forward in their next steps of faith.
It is our prayer that Calvary’s small groups develop healthy relationships
where love, faith, encouragement, support, evangelism, service, joy,
truth, grace and character transformation abound. The materials in this
handbook are designed to equip, resource and guide you in that endeavor.
Please know that the Small Groups Ministry team is praying for you and
your group. It is our privilege to serve you. So, please do not hesitate to
share concerns, ask questions, and celebrate how God is working in and
through your group.
May you experience the joy of partnering with God in the lives of those in
your group and may Christ be glorified throughout this ministry!
In His grace,
Carolyn Taketa
Executive Director of Small Groups
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Thank Shawn’s
Pastor
you for Joining
Welcome
theLetter
Small Groups Ministry
May God bless you as you embark on this small group leadership journey!
I am excited about what this means in your life and the life of Calvary
Community Church. Building biblical community through small groups is
central to Calvary’s vision of being a church that lives and loves like Jesus.
Throughout the history of the church, small groups of people have
gathered together to pray, worship God, study His Word, proclaim Christ,
share fellowship, care for each other, and reach out in word and deed with
the Good News of Jesus Christ. As the Calvary body grows larger and
influences more people for Jesus, we must grow smaller and disciple one
another. This happens best when leaders, like you, choose to step up and
invest your time and talents to shepherd a small group of people toward
building spiritually significant relationships.
Thank you for saying “Yes!” to serving as a small group leader! Though
the reality of leadership may be challenging at times, we trust that our
God is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine. May
the Holy Spirit empower you as you lead and may we all grow to be more
like Jesus every day!
For His glory,
Shawn Thornton
Senior Pastor
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Calvary’s Vision 2020 and Core Purposes
Love
God More
Obeying the
Great Commandment
“Love the Lord your God with
all your heart and with all your
soul and with all your mind
Matthew 22:37
Love
People More
Love
More People
Following the
Great Commandment
Fulfilling the
Great Commandment
“Love your neighbors
as yourself.”
Matthew 22:39
“Go make disciples of
all nations... surely I am
with you always.”
Matthew 28:19-20
CALVARY’S CORE PURPOSES:
• Loving God More – Obeying the Greatest Commandment
• Loving People More – Following the Great Commandment
• Loving More People – Fulfilling the Great Commission
LONG-TERM RESULTS (OUTCOME OF THE PURPOSES):
By God’s grace...
• Reach 20 Percent by 2020: Be actively engaging the lives of 20%
of the people who live in the greater Conejo Valley by 2020
• Reach 20 by 2020: Encourage and equip every willing person
to reach 20 people with the message and love of Jesus Christ
by 2020
• Give away 20 Percent by 2020: Direct 20% of Calvary’s income
toward missions, benevolence, and out-reach by 2020
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Biblical Foundation for
Small Groups.
Core Purposes for Calvary’s Small Groups
At Calvary, we want our small groups to cultivate environments for spiritual transformation. We hope
people will develop meaningful relationships in their groups that lead them to become fully devoted
followers of Christ.
We do this by cultivating a community focused on three critical elements:
• Belonging: Build authentic relationships
—make relationships a priority by meeting regularly
— support, encourage, and serve one another
— have fun through social gatherings
— pray for one another consistently
— cultivate a safe environment where people can be vulnerable
— contribute to the group by sharing your time and talents
• Believing: Immerse our lives in God’s Word
— study material grounded in scripture and its implications for life
— engage in open, respectful, truth-based, and grace-filled interactions
— expect and experience God’s transformative power together
— pray with and for each other regularly
— learn together with the leader as a facilitator and shepherd rather than a teacher
• Becoming: Live and love like Jesus
— point one another toward Jesus and His Kingdom perspective
— encourage and challenge one another to love and good deeds
— identify spiritual next steps and hold each other accountable
— share the gospel with others in our sphere of influence and pray for them
— engage in acts of compassion by serving others in our community
— invest time, talents, and treasures for God’s Kingdom
— minister at Calvary using your spiritual gifts
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Why Have Small Groups?1
Small groups are a means to an end, not an end
itself. Small groups exist as a way for people to
engage in aspects of biblical community that
helps them become more like Jesus in every area
of their lives. The following are a few key biblical
foundations, ministry purposes and benefits of
small groups.
When Jesus’ ministry life began, he called
twelve disciples to be his primary relational and
ministry community. Did Jesus need this motley
crew to help him? Not really. But Jesus chose
to love them, teach them, and pour himself into
relationships with them, thereby creating the
“first small group.”
BIBLICAL BASIS FOR SMALL GROUPS
God himself is in a community of three persons
in one – The Father, Son and Holy Spirit who
exist in perfect unity. So then it is not surprising
that from the beginning, God created us to be in
community with one another. “It is not good for
man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18) This passage
is often used in the context of marriage but it
also speaks to our fundamental need to connect
with others in the human community. What is
striking about this statement is that God makes
this observation before the Fall. There’s no sin
yet, no disobedience; man is in perfect intimacy
with God. And yet, God declares that man is
alone and that it is not good. As Dr. Bilezikian
points out:
The apostles then continued Jesus’ model and
formed a community of believers who loved
God and loved one another. Despite incredible
persecutions and against all odds, this rag
tag group of Jesus followers launched small
communities (i.e., church) that proclaimed the
gospel and changed the world forever.
PURPOSE OF SMALL GROUPS
When we look at the first church and the Epistles
we get a picture of small communities of people
who followed Jesus together. So how did they do
it? The Book of Acts, especially Acts 2:42-47,
gives us a great picture of the early church and
the components of biblical community, which
encompassed both the “temple courts” and
“house to house.”
“Community is deeply grounded in
the nature of God. It flows from who
God is. Because he is community, he
creates community. It is his gift of himself
to humans. Therefore, the making of
community may not be regarded
as an optional decision for Christians.
It is a compelling and irrevocable
necessity, a binding divine mandate for
all believers at all times.” 2
1.From “Why Have Small Groups?” by Carolyn Taketa, published in SmallGroups.com, © Christianity Today Intl. (2012)
2.Gilbert Bilezikian, Community 101 (Zondervan, 1997) at p. 27.
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Why Have Small Groups? (cont.)
These believers engaged in life together through teaching, fellowship, communion, prayer, miracles,
radical generosity, corporate worship, eating, learning, celebrating, proclaiming good news, and
supporting each other. In addition, the 50+ “one another” verses in the New Testament flesh out
other aspects of this community. For example, it is a place where people love, forgive, serve, bear
burdens, encourage, exhort, pray, equip, speak truth in love, confess sins, and treat each other as
precious members of one body.
God never intended for us to live the Christian life alone. How else can we apply these “one
another” references unless we are in intentional close relationships with each other? God calls us
to love, not in an abstract or superficial way, but in a deep, face-to-face, life-on-life, transformative
way, which is difficult and inevitably messy.
In our modern culture, small groups are often viewed merely as a program or a fellowship ministry
within the church. But for the New Testament church, it was a way of life and encompassed every
area of their lives. Their relationships with one another were critical to their pursuit of Jesus, their
growth in Christ, and their witness to the good news. It would be impossible to experience biblical
community apart from spiritually significant intentional relationships with other believers. So relational
structures like small groups are an integral part of “being” the church and not just “doing” church.
CHARACTER CHANGE HAPPENS BEST IN THE CONTEXT OF RELATIONAL COMMUNITY
The consumer mentality rampant in our culture has permeated our understanding of community. We
focus on what we are going to get out of church or a group rather than what God is going to do in
us and through us because of the relationships within this community. We need each other to help
us know the truth about who we are, who God is, and to help us live in that truth. Moreover, change
is hard. Like “iron sharpening iron”, the relationships we form within our small communities can
become a tool for God to use in our character transformation.
“It is in small groups that people can get close enough to know each other, to
care and share, to challenge and support, to confide and confess, to forgive and
be forgiven, to laugh and weep together, to be accountable to each other, to
watch over each other and to grow together. Personal growth does not happen in
isolation. It is the result of interactive relationships. Small groups are God’s gift to
foster changes in character and spiritual growth.” 3
We live in an increasingly fragmented and disconnected world. Though social media and other
technology have made our world seemingly more “connected” in a superficial level, people have
fewer genuine friends than ever before. It is a scary and threatening thing to allow ourselves to
be known or to invest in knowing someone else on a deeper level. It is much easier and more
convenient to stay on the surface. Yet, when we take the risk of being authentic with a small group
of people, we can experience God’s grace and love coming through another person, leading to
freedom and transformation.
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3. Community 101 (p.54)
Why Have Small Groups? (cont.)
We recognize that “God uses
people to form people. That is
why what happens between
you and another person is
never merely human-to-human
interaction – the Spirit longs
to be powerfully at work in
every encounter.” 4 So the goal
of a small group is to create
environments where Spiritdriven, life-giving experiences
can flourish.
This can be done in a
number of ways through
bible studies, various group
curriculum, gender/age/
stage of life affiliations,
different types of prayer,
support, service, confession,
worship, accountability, conflict
resolution, social gatherings,
and simply doing life together.
Regardless of the specific
guidelines a church may have
in their small group ministry, its
objective is to ultimately help
people engage in relationships
that help them become more
like Christ.
SMALL GROUPS ARE ON A MISSION
BEYOND ITSELF
The great commission in Matt 28:19-20 mandates
that every follower of Christ is on mission to “go
and make disciples of all nations.” Jesus gave this
instruction to all His followers, both as individuals
and as the body of Christ. We, as a small group and
as a church, bear collective witness to the good news
of Jesus Christ.
One of Jesus’ final instructions to his disciples is
found in John 13:34-35: “So now I am giving you a
new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have
loved you, you should love each other. Your love for
one another will prove to the world that you are my
disciples.” Note that Jesus did not say people will
know we are Christians by how many churches we
build, how many Bible studies we complete, how
many prayers we say, or how many people come to
our church. The litmus test is clear: people will know
we are Christ followers when we love each other the
way Jesus does.
Theologian Francis Schaeffer asserted, “our
relationship with each other is the criterion the
world uses to judge whether our message is truthful
– Christian community is the final apologetic.”
Our nonbelieving friends, family, co-workers, and
neighbors are watching and deciding on the validity
of the gospel message. We need each other to help
us live lives worthy of God’s calling so that others will
see the power of God’s love in and through us.
Ultimately, small groups are a way of living out our
purpose, both as individuals and as a collective
group of believers, to be the church. We share a
common foundation of faith and God has called us
to live out the implications of that faith in a relational
community, in the context that we call a “small group.”
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4. John Ortberg, The Me I Want to Be (Zondervan, 2010) at p. 182.
Small Group Leadership Team
THE SMALL GROUP LEADERSHIP TEAM is readily available to help our
small group leaders. It is our joy to partner with you in this ministry. Please
do not hesitate to contact us!
CAROLYN TAKETA, Executive Director of Small Groups
COACHES
o Leads and oversees all aspects of small groups ministry
o Member of Calvary’s Executive Team & Worship Planning Team
o Attended Calvary since 2000; joined staff as director in 2005
o Married since 1994 with 2 teenage daughters, Emily & Sarah
• shepherd 3-5 small
group leaders
• pray & resource group
leaders as needed
• collaborate with
Area Leaders
[email protected] 818.575.2238
@TaketaCarolyn
LINDA HOOVER, Area Leader
o Support, develop, and resource small group leaders
o Director of Calvary Women’s Ministries
o One of the founding families of Calvary & on staff since 1982
o Joined Small Groups team in 2006
o Married since 1959 with 3 grown children & 7 grandchildren
Debbie Williams
[email protected] 818.575.2226
STACY MASSELL, Connection Coordinator & Administrator
o Processes all requests to join a small group
o Connects people to new or existing groups
o Member of Calvary Communications Team
o Married since 1999 with 2 kids, Ashley & Christian
[email protected] 818.575.2236
Chris Gould
DAVID HESSEMER, Area Leader
o Support, develop, and resource small group leaders
o Executive director, “Before I am Taken” (stop human trafficking)
with Global Hope Network International
o Married since 1997 with 6 children (ages 15-33)
[email protected] 818.575.2251
HANON RINKE, Area Leader
o Support, develop, and resource small group leaders
o Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
o Married since 2006 with two kids, Brianna & Gracelyn
[email protected] 818.575.2279
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Let’s Get Started.
What Do We Expect from our Leaders?
I. QUALIFICATIONS
• Have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and regularly attend services at Calvary
• Commit to Calvary by becoming a member and completing the Discovery Calvary
membership class.
• Pursue spiritual growth by engaging regularly in times of prayer, Scripture readings,
financial generosity, and other spiritual disciplines
• Attend Small Group Leaders Gatherings (2-3/year)
• Commit to leading a group for 8 weeks with the likely option to continue
II. EXPECTATIONS
• Facilitate meetings
o Pray for your small group members
o Prepare and lead the small group study
o Maintain an environment of trust, honesty, and support
• Create community
o Use email, texts, or phone calls to connect with your small group
o Maintain an open conversation with your area leader or coach
o Celebrate together with meals and social activities
• Shepherd and develop others
o Delegate and share responsibilities among your small group members
o Commit your group to at least one service project each year
o Expect and encourage your members to grow in relationship with Jesus and
each other
o Identify and mentor potential new small group leaders within your group
o Discern together next steps of growth and hold members accountable to change
I acknowledge the qualifications set forth above and commit to doing my best to meet the
above expectations.
Signature
Date
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How Do People Get Connected into a Small Group?
The graph below shows the basic connection process when Calvary receives a request and places
people into groups.
Of course, you and your members are always welcome and encouraged to invite people to your
group. When attending services, events, or activities at Calvary be open to God directing you to
invite someone to your small group. Also, be praying for friends and neighbors who do not yet know
Christ but might be interested in checking out the small group. A spirit of openness and inclusivity
will help your group thrive.
FOLLOW STEPS ONE THROUGH FIVE BELOW:
5a.
3.
1.
People join
new small
group.
Connection
coordinator (Stacy)
emails SG leader
and requester.
Fill out
small group
request.
5b.
2.
Requests are
sorted by city,
affinity, and time
preferences.
4.
If connection is not
made, SG leader and/or
requester contacts Stacy
for reassignment.
SG leader contacts
each requester
with warm
invitation.
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Starting Well: Contacting Potential Members
After you have received a list of names and contact information from the Connection Coordinator,
please contact each potential member via email or phone.
Clearly introduce yourself
State how you got their name
If you have already met them, mention where and/or when
Ask general open-ended questions...
What brought you to Calvary?
How long have you been at Calvary?
Let them know…
Time and night of the week your group meets
Invite them to join you AND give address or directions to the home
State the current topic of discussion in your group
Let them know if you have any pets and make sure that’s okay
Offer to meet them in the Adult Connection Area in the church lobby on Sunday
(great way to break the ice before the first meeting)
Follow up
Make at least two attempts to talk with them, leaving your phone number
Call or email again in a few days or so if they haven’t made contact
Send a reminder email or text a week before the first meeting
If you get NO response for 2-3 weeks, please let the Connection Coordinator, Stacy, and your
Area Leader know so they can follow-up. Please do not take it personally as a rejection or failure.
Typically 30-50 % of people that sign-up for a group choose later not to respond. Your ministry is to
reach out and invite warmly and clearly. How people respond is between them and God. So thank
you for doing your part!
Of course, you are always encouraged to invite any friends and acquaintances to your new group.
We do not have “closed” groups; groups are open and welcome for new people until they are full,
usually when they reach 12-15 people.
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Launching Your First Meeting
PRAY:
Prepare your heart through prayer and ask God to help you follow His lead.
Ask God to bring the people who He wants to be in this group.
Whatever happens, whoever shows up (or doesn’t), stay focused on Jesus and receive His
affirmation for stretching yourself and serving others.
PREPARE:
Everyone has clear directions to the Host home.
Leave the lights on, place a sign, or hang balloons on the mailbox so people can easily
find your house.
Keep an eye on your phone for calls from lost members.
Set-up the room with chairs, good lighting, light snacks and drinks.
GENERAL TIME GUIDELINES:
Socializing, Introductions and Snacks (15-20 minutes)
Icebreaker get-to-know-you Qs (10-15 minutes)
What brought you to Calvary?
How long have you been at Calvary?
What type of work do you do? or What is one hobby you enjoy?
Group-related Qs (10-20 minutes)
What has been your best experience of community in small groups?
What are you looking for in this small group?
What prompted you to sign-up for a group?
Share and Discuss Group Guidelines (20-25)
Discuss logistics –meeting times, hosting, refreshments, etc.
Decide on curriculum if needed
Share Calvary’s goals for the group (pages 1, 6-8) and ask for commitment from members for 8 weeks to make group a priority
Establish that the group will hold shared information as confidential
Discuss childcare options if relevant
Ask if anyone has any Questions
Pray together (3-7 minutes)
One person can pray OR
If people seem comfortable praying out loud, have pop-corn style prayer with
people speaking as they wish
FOLLOW UP:
Send an email or group text thanking people for coming and reminding them of the next
meeting date and any task they volunteered to do.
Contact those who did not attend to assure them that they were missed.
Pray for your members and follow-up as needed.
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My Group Members Contact Sheet
There are many ways to keep track of your members. You can use phone apps such as “GroupMe,”
Calvary Connection database, or a simple written table such as the one below.
Name
Address
Email
Phone
Best Method &
Time to Contact
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Ways to Grow Your Small Group.
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Creating Environments for Growth
1 Corinthians 3:7 states that it is God who makes people grow but we have the privilege of
partnering with Him in what He is doing in people’s lives. As a small group leader, your role is to be
a loving shepherd for the small group of people God has entrusted to you.
You do this by building authentic relationships, facilitating meaningful discussions, and encouraging
members to take spiritual next steps. By following the leading of the Holy Spirit and receiving
support and coaching from the Small Group Ministry Team, you can experience the joy of seeing
yourself and your group members take steps of faith and grow together in Christ. Here are some
things to keep in mind as you lead your group.
KEEP THE GROUP FOCUSED
• Pull people back to the subject if tangents begin to take over the group and offer to talk
further after the meeting.
• Resist talking too much. Encourage members to share talking time and prevent any one
person from dominating the conversation.
• Maintain boundaries within the discussion. Deep sharing is important, but small groups
are not therapy groups.
• You can call Calvary at 818.991.8040 for a Minister-On-Call 24 hours a day for crisis
care. We also have a Care and Support Center where people can find a counselor or a
support group for specific issues.
ENCOURAGE HEALTHY DISCUSSION
• Invite the Holy Spirit to be present and follow His lead (e.g., if one question sparks deeper
sharing or emotion, allow extra time).
• Be the first to be authentic by sharing vulnerabilities and struggles.
• Encourage answers from many people for each question.
• Consider directly asking members who are more quiet for
their opinions
• Do not fear silence; it allows people time to think and respond.
• Take a moment to summarize (e.g., “What I hear you saying is...”) or clarify what has
been said.
• Incorporate prayer in various ways: allow for prayer requests, split into smaller groups for
prayer, encourage people to pray out loud.
DO LIFE TOGETHER
• Schedule social times (e.g., potlucks, game nights, dinner out, hiking, movies) at least
2-4 times a year.
• Plan service opportunities to help the group be outward focused
• Sit together during Sunday Services and have lunch afterwards.
• If appropriate, encourage smaller clusters of 2-3 to get together outside of group times
for deeper accountability and prayer.
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Choosing Helpful Curriculum
Study is an important element of any small group because it allows us to
examine God’s Word together and apply it into our lives as individuals
and as a group. Your group has many options when it comes to studying
the Bible. The SG Leadership team is available to guide and encourage
you as you decide which study option is best for your group.
SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDES FOR DESIGNATED
TEACHING SERIES:
Sermon Discussion Guides are written weekly and based on the
Sunday messages. They are available on Monday afternoon via
email and on the Calvary website under “Sermons.” These Guides
offer a brief summary of the main points, questions, relevant Bible
passages, and application ideas for your group to discuss.
DVD CHURCH-WIDE TEACHING SERIES:
Once a year, usually during Fall, we will provide a DVD curriculum
for Small Groups aligned with a church-wide sermon series. These
materials will provide 10-15 minute DVD sessions and related
questions. We ask all our groups to go through this material all
together as a way of growing in unity as the body of Christ here
at Calvary.
ALTERNATIVE CURRICULA:
Sermon Discussion Guides are not available over the summer
months or holiday seasons. During these times, you may choose
a study from the Calvary Recommended Curriculum list or contact
your Area Leader or coach for additional ideas. If you would like to
study a topic not on the list, please keep your Area Leader informed.
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Recommended Curriculum
The following are some of the small group curriculum that has been reviewed and test-driven in
our groups. This is not an exhaustive list. There are many materials that are not listed here which
would be completely appropriate for group study. If you find small group material that has helped
transform your group, please let us know so we can add it to the list.
We leave the decision of what to study largely to the group leader because you are in the best
position to know what the group might need to learn next. However, it helps us to know what you
are studying and often, we can be of assistance in choosing the best material out of the hundreds of
options. So please discuss curriculum decisions with your Area Leader.
CALVARY SERMON-BASED DISCUSSION GUIDE FOR TEACHING SERIES
These are available for teaching series throughout the year except for summer and December.
NEW BELIEVERS
— Purpose Driven Life – What on Earth am I here For, Rick Warren
— Case for Christ, Lee Strobel
— The Me I Want to Be, John Ortberg
— Colossians: Discover the New You, New Community Study Series
DEVOTION & PASSION FOR GOD
— Crazy Love, Francis Chan
— Not a Fan, Kyle Idleman
— Good & Beautiful God, James Byron Smith
— Follow Me, David Platt
GRACE & PRAYER
— Grace: More than We Deserve, Greater than We Imagine, Max Lucado
— What’s So Amazing about Grace, Philip Yancey
— Too Busy Not to Pray, Bill Hybels
—Prayer
BOOKS OF THE BIBLE STUDIES
— NT Wright For Everyone series
— New Community Study series
— The Wiersbe Bible Study Series
SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES/ SPIRITUAL FORMATION
— The Life You’ve Always Wanted, John Ortberg
— Celebration of Disciplines, Richard Foster
— Pursuit of Holiness, Jerry Bridges
— The Jesus Life, Jan Johnson
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Recommended Curriculum (cont.)
EVANGELISM & MISSIONS
— Just Walk Across the Room, Bill Hybels
— Becoming a Contagious Christian, Mittelberg/ Strobel
— The Hole in Our Gospel, Richard Stearns
HOLY SPIRIT
— Forgotten God, Francis Chan
— Power of a Whisper, Bill Hybels
LIFE SKILLS
Marriage
o Love Languages, Gary Chapman
o Sacred Marriage, Gary Thomas
o The Marriage Builder, Larry Crabb
o Love and Respect, Emerson Eggerichs
Stewardship
o The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving, Randy Alcorn
o Financial Peace University, David Ramsey (participate together as a group in Calvary’s class)
Parenting
o Sticky Faith Parenting – Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids,
Kara Powell
o The Five Love languages of children: Gary Chapman
o Sacred Parenting – How Raising Children Shapes Our Souls, Gary Thomas
Work
o Every Good Endeavor – Connecting Your Work to God’s Work, Timothy Keller
o Bible Studies for Life; Productive – Finding Joy in What We Do, Ronnie and Nick Floyd
Relationships
o Boundaries – When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control Over Your Life, Henry Cloud & John Townsend
o When Relationships Collide, Lifeway – Bible Studies for Life
o Taking Responsibility for Your Life, Andy Stanley
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Recommended Curriculum (cont.)
WOMEN
—
—
—
—
Daniel: Beth Moore Study (other Beth Moore Studies are fine too)
She’s Got Issues, Nicole Unice
Wonderstruck – Awaken to the Nearness of God, Margaret Feinberg
Remarkable Women of the Bible, Elizabeth George
MEN
—
—
—
—
Every Man’s Series on a Variety of Topics, Steven Arterburn
Dare to be Uncommon, Tony Dungy
Measure of a Man – Twenty Attributes of a Godly Man, Gene Getz
Risk – Are You Willing to Trust God with Everything?, Kenny Luck (Every Man series)
JOURNEY RESOURCE CENTER’S DISCOUNT POLICY
• 25% discount off publishers’ price for 10 or more books
• 20% discount off publishers’ price for less than 10 books
• After ordering, it usually takes 5-7 days to arrive.
• We never want cost to be a limiting factor for any group, so please contact us if your
group needs assistance in purchasing curriculum. Some DVD curriculum can also be
checked out from the SG staff area.
SMALL GROUP LEADERSHIP
— Community 101, Gilbert Bilizikien
— Everybody’s Normal Till You Get to Know Them, John Ortberg
— Walking the Small Group Tightrope – Meeting the Challenges Every Group Faces,
Bill Donahue
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Growing in Prayer
Prayer must be a priority in our groups. Being aware of God’s presence
in your group and intentionally pursuing and enjoying his presence can
make your group grow and bond in powerful ways. Here are some tips for
incorporating prayer into your small group.
USE THE ACTS APPROACH TO PRAYER: ADORATION, CONFESSION,
THANKSGIVING, SUPPLICATION
• Adoration – praise God for who he is
o Recall his attributes: compassionate, good, merciful, holy, just, faithful, loving, patient, trustworthy, understanding
o Pray Scripture back to God. For example, praise God
for being your guide by paraphrasing or reading
Isaiah 30:21: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying,
‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
• Confession – ask God for forgiveness for the things you
have done which have hurt God, others, or yourself
o Confess words, thoughts, or actions out loud or privately
o Pronounce God’s forgiveness by reading passages such as 1 John 1:9 aloud.
• Thanksgiving – give thanks to God for all he has done for us
o Thank God for the blessings in your own life and the lives of others
o Thank God for how he directs the world and accomplishes his plan
• Supplication – come to God with our requests
o Pray for our needs and the needs of others
o Pray for Calvary Community Church and its ministries
o Pray for opportunities to share Christ with friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers.
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Growing in Prayer (cont.)
SPEND SOME TIME LISTENING TO GOD
Silence can be powerful in our relationships with God. Encourage your
group to spend some time listening to the Holy Spirit.
• Have one group member read a Psalm or other passage of Scripture and listen to the Holy Spirit speak through the passage
• Take one phrase from Scripture and let the group meditate on that phrase for a few minutes in silence
• Play a worship song quietly while the group listens in
God’s presence
MAKE TIME FOR PRAYER REQUESTS
Sharing prayer requests as a group can help group members feel more
connected and allows God to work in your lives.
• Leave 15-20 minutes at the end of the meetings or at another time for members to share prayer requests
• Consider splitting into smaller groups of 3-4 people and
share requests
• Encourage members to pray out loud. Try saying the Lord’s Prayer out loud to encourage familiarity with praying out loud
• Write down prayer requests in a notebook to remember prior
requests and keep track of how God answers prayers
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Serving Others
Serving together is a great way for your group to deepen relationships with each other as they
stretch themselves and engage in acts of compassion. We ask each small group to engage in at
least one service project per year, usually during our annual Serve Day. In addition, we encourage
groups to develop a culture of serving those in need whenever God nudges. Serving in practical
ways is a wonderful way to develop Christ’s heart of compassion within us and share His love with
our community.
For serving opportunities, please contact:
Doty Santamaria, Community Outreach Director
[email protected] 818-575-2271
Here are a few local serving opportunities available at Calvary:
• Homeless toiletries kits
• Lunches of Love for the Homeless
• Senior Serve (practical assistance and visitations with seniors)
• Angel Threads (sorting clothing donations)
• Blanket Ministry
• Tutorials for low-income elementary school
• Christmas Shoppe and shoeboxes for Mexico
Calvary partners with ACTION (Area Christians Taking Initiative on Needs) on our annual Serve Day
in June. Check www.actionvc.org anytime for various service projects throughout the community.
Short-Term Mission Trips together is an incredible experience for groups. For information, please
look on Calvary’s website under Mission and Short Term Trips or contact 818-575-2292.
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Inviting New Members
Over time, people may transition out of your group or there may be space
for more members. We ask our small groups to embrace the “open chair”
concept. God desires that all have an opportunity to grow in maturity,
develop godly relationships, and serve alongside other believers. Adding
new people to your small group accomplishes these goals.
Some groups that have been together for many years are hesitant to bring
in new people as it can shift the level of intimacy as well as the dynamics
within the group. Most groups find, however, that new members usually
add something exciting and fresh to the group. Try to keep your eyes open
to potential members and a welcoming heart that is willing and actively
seeking to include new members.
Here are some steps for inviting new members:
Step 1: Discuss in your group how you would like to invite new members and pray for God to send potential members.
Step 2: Make a list of possible new members. They may be friends or acquaintances, people from your workplace, or others at church who are not currently in a group.
Step 3: Meet with the potential member before inviting them to
the group and ask if they would be interested in joining your group. You may first introduce the person to other members of your group in a social setting or over a meal. Ask the person to pray about whether they should join your group.
Step 4: When a person does join the group, take some time to go over your group’s goals or covenants. Reaffirm confidentiality and briefly share your personal history or
stories with the new person so they can get to know the other members. Take your time adding new people to the group so that members have time to build a sense of community and closeness.
Some groups may choose to bring a seeker or non-believer into the
group. Adding a seeker to the group requires special sensitivity to help
meet the seeker’s needs and the needs of your group. Please see the
sub-section “Incorporating Non-Christians in Your Group” for more
suggestions or connect with your area leader or coach for ideas.
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Recognizing the Stage of Your Small Group
Life transformation is designed by God to happen in a community. A typical small group goes
through several stages and will experience growing pains and changes. We want to help you know
what to expect and to understand the normal experiences of each stage.
FORMATION
TRANSITION
ENGAGEMENT
MATURATION
FORMATION – BUILDING A FOUNDATION
• Typically occurs during first 3-6 months
• Opinions of the leader and group members are formed
• Each person decides whether they will be part of this group
• Leader Goals
o Create a warm, safe environment to help people feel comfortable
o Set a welcoming tone through your own personal openness and establishing
safe boundaries
o Connect with each individual member personally
ENGAGEMENT – TRUST AND CONNECTIONS FORM
• Friendships begin and people share their stories and personal histories
• Group identity begins to form
• Conflicts can occur through personality clashes or differences of opinion
• Leader Goals
o Understand growing pains and challenges are normal and expected
o Handle conflicts with wisdom, grace, truth, and gentleness
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Recognizing the Stage of Your Small Group (cont.)
MATURATION – RELATIONSHIPS DEEPEN AND OUTWARD FOCUS DEVELOPS
• Friendships become deeper
• Identification with the community develops as the group begins to reach out
• Spiritual growth occurs as members encourage and challenge one another
• Leader Goals
o Expect and facilitate increased spiritual growth
o Plan outreach and service opportunities that match with group goals and interest
TRANSITION – THE GROUP CHANGES, ENDS, OR PLANTS NEW GROUPS
• Most small groups at Calvary stay together on average 3-4 years
• A group has fulfilled its original purpose, members may have reached a different stage of
life, or people may desire a new challenge or experience
• Leader Goals
o Celebrate your time together and what God has done in and through your group.
o Share how the group has impacted your lives
o Embrace the new thing that God is doing
To assess the stage of your small group as well as a more detailed breakdown of the various stages,
please speak with your Area Leader.
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groups
small
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Looking to the Future.
Identifying and Developing Future Leaders
All small groups will transition at some point. One group may fulfill its original purpose and end,
another group may split into two groups, while another group may plant a completely new small
group. These transitions are a normal part of life in a small group.
One important aspect of being a small group leader is learning how to identify and develop future
leaders. Helping new leaders grow is an investment in the life of the individual, the group, Calvary,
and God’s kingdom. Here are some characteristics of individuals who may be growing into a
leadership position and some ways you can help develop them. Your area leader or coach can also
assist you in developing future small group leaders.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A FUTURE LEADER
• Committed to your group and group members
• Understands the importance of small groups
• Shows natural gifts and abilities for leadership
• Responsible with delegated tasks
• Growing spiritually
• Can be honest and vulnerable with the group
• Demonstrates emotional stability
• Deals well with conflict
• Able to listen as well as speak in a group setting and one on one conversations
NEXT STEPS
• Ask the person to pray and consider becoming a leader in the future
• Contact your area leader or coach about the apprentice leader and arrange a meeting
• Explain your role as a small group leader
• Begin mentoring your apprentice leader and meet one on one
• Demonstrate love and shepherding within your group
• Begin giving your apprentice more responsibility in the group
• Allow the apprentice to lead the group after a season of mentoring
• Encourage your apprentice to also keep an eye out for future leaders
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Celebrating and Multiplying Groups
Some of our groups have multiplied and planted new groups. This process of replicating a group
can be a bittersweet moment of both joy and sadness. At other times, the season of the small group
has come to an end. It is important to celebrate these milestones.
TRANSITIONING A MULTIPLYING GROUP
• Prepare to multiply
o Recognize members’ fears and uncertainties when groups multiply
o Have an open conversation about people’s feelings
o Cast a new vision for the existing group and the new planted groups
o Celebrate the multiplying of your group by holding a party, sharing stories of your
group, and rejoicing in the growth that God brought
• Step out in faith
o Begin meeting in one location with two groups
o Encourage your apprentice or the new leader
o Create a timeline for when the groups will begin meeting separately
o Pray for God’s blessing on both groups
CELEBRATING THE END OF A GROUP
• Hold a final meeting, preferably a party
• Discuss how people grew and what they learned from their time in the group
• Keep the conversation positive and focus on expressing love, gratitude, and friendship
• Affirm that some friendships will continue past the small group
• Ask if people would like to join another small group
• Close in a time of prayer and blessing as people move forward
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groups
Practices of a Healthy Group.
small
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Resolving Conflict Biblically
Conflict can happen in any group, whether the group is professional,
recreational, or spiritual. Differences in personality, dissimilar interests,
varying backgrounds and doctrines, and diverse life experiences can cause
discomfort, tension, or conflict. But we know that as followers of Jesus,
the Holy Spirit unites us, and we can look to the Lord to help us resolve
conflict in a godly, healthy manner.
Sometimes it helps to recognize the causes of conflict.
CAUSES OF CONFLICT:
1. Group Stages (see Ways to Grow Your Small Group):
Even though each group will naturally move through various
stages of development, the transitions these stages cause can
create conflict
or tension.
2. Relational Unawareness: We may encounter people in
our group who are emotionally immature, have limited social
skills, not self-aware, and do not understand how relationships
work. This can include people who over share (excessive selfdisclosure) or talk too long, have poor interpersonal skills, or
have unhealthy models of relationships.
3. Extra Care Required (ECR): The tension experienced by the
group due to someone who is more demanding or in need of
extra attention may be temporary (arising from an unexpected
crisis or short-term illness) or chronic (long term emotional or
physical needs). In a short-term ECR situation, kindness is best
as you assist with immediate needs for a season. For chronic
ECR, boundaries may need to be established to clearly define
what the group can or cannot provide.
4. Interpersonal Tension: Tension may arise from personality
differences, clashing egos, hurt feelings, judgement, conflicting
priorities, jealousy or envy, as well as an inability to connect in
relationship with others. As a leader, it may be best to address
interpersonal tensions between two people directly by first
speaking to each person separately and then bringing the two
members together for an authentic, constructive conversation
and reconciliation.
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Resolving Conflict Biblically (cont.)
STEPS TO RESOLVING CONFLICT:
(Adapted from “Coaching Life-Changing Small Group Leaders”
Donahue/Bowman)
PREPARE
• Begin to plan how to resolve the conflict when it arises; do not
wait for it to blow up
• Prepare hearts
o Ask each person involved to pray and seek the
Lord individually
o Seek the Lord yourself for wisdom and understanding
• If helpful, ask your area leader or coach for advice
ACT
• Meet face-to-face instead of discussing the issue via email
or phone
• Keep it simple
o Use the guidelines in Matthew 18 for who should meet to discuss the issue
o Meet with them if they need you to, or hold them accountable for meeting themselves
• Recognize the issue may take several meetings to be resolved
• Get the facts
• Make observations, not accusations
• Ensure trust and confidentiality
AFFIRM
• Affirm the relationship
• Promote resolution and reconciliation
• Recognize that leaders are responsible for the process, not
the outcome
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Maintaining Healthy Boundaries
Your small group may encounter situations that are unique, extremely
trying, or complex. These situations may include:
• Contentious divorce within your group
• Unrepentant attitude toward overt sin
• Emotional or mental health issues that require professional therapy
• Developing dating relationships and/or breakups
• Hostility toward Calvary or accusations against specific leaders
• Debilitating financial hardship
• Death or chronic illness
Instances such as these may require additional resources. Calvary’s
Small Group Ministry Team and Calvary’s Care Ministry Team are here to
help you deal with situations that may be beyond the boundaries of your
normal group life. Please discuss with your Area Leader.
MANAGING PERSONAL AGENDAS
When a small group member has a personal agenda, they are likely to
attempt to influence the group in unhealthy ways. They may lose sight
of what is best for the group, group goals, or even other members’
personal feelings. Examples include someone with strong theological or
political opinions who may force their views on others, a member who
uses the group for personal financial gain, or someone who tries to usurp
leadership from the leader.
While you cannot solve every issue a group member presents, it is
important to maintain healthy boundaries within your group and not
allow personal agendas to derail the group as a whole. Here are some
suggestions for dealing with personal agendas:
• Start by reaffirming the general guidelines for your small group,
making certain this conversation occurs while the person with
the agenda is present
• If the problem persists, arrange a time to speak to that person
in private
• During your conversation, probe a little deeper to see if there is
a root issue
• Discuss what you have observed about the personal agenda
• Ask how the person feels and if they are aware that they have
repeatedly spoken about their agenda
• Reaffirm the purpose of the group and place limits on what the
group can or cannot provide
• If there is a need for therapy or counseling, please refer them to
Calvary’s Care Ministry Team for Community Care Resources
and counseling referrals.
• If the behavior persists, please contact an area leader to discuss
the situation
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Community Care Resources
Resources exist to help you as a small group leader. Please contact your
area leader or coach if you need a resource that is not listed here.
Counseling Referrals: 818.575.2228
Minister on Call at Calvary (Ministers On Call are available 24/7 for
prayer, to answer spiritual questions, to help in times of crisis or need):
818.991.8040
Support/Recovery Groups: 818.575.2267
MAKING NON-CHRISTIANS FEEL WELCOME
As believers, we have the honor and privilege of leading others to find
Jesus. Often, this can happen by inviting that person to a small group. We
would like to help you in creating an environment that will help a seeker
discover Jesus. Here are some suggestions:
• Make certain your group is aware of the seeker and sensitive
to their needs
• Avoid using religious or church jargon
• Speak in a normal manner with common language and pray in
the same manner
• Be honest and truthful even with hard questions. Remain
biblically sound and explain to the seeker as needed
• Try not to get into complicated theological arguments. Stay
focused on the study and in the scripture
• Print out Bible verses or direct the person to an easy-to-use
Bible app so they can find scripture
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Protecting Confidentiality
We place an emphasis on maintaining confidentiality within your group.
Trust can only be built in a place of safety. Reiterate your guidelines on
confidentiality several times throughout the year. Ideal times to reaffirm
confidentiality include every fall when your group reconvenes or whenever
new members join your group. Keep a tight reign on gossip as it has no
place in a small group.
Another area of awareness is if your group sends out emails with prayer
requests. State clearly that all emails are to remain within your group only.
A way of helping to maintain confidentiality is to write the emails so there
are no specific names or identifiers. For instance, if Jane asks for prayer
for her Uncle Jack’s cancer treatment, your email could be written to pray
for Jane’s family member who is going through cancer treatment. The
small group members who heard the actual prayer request will know it was
Jane’s Uncle Jack.
One other area of caution is posting on Facebook or other social media
about your group or photos taken at group activities. The other members
of your group may not want their image or their children’s pictures posted
online from small group activities. Ask permission before posting photos or
comments, and add this to your group’s confidentiality agreement.
36
Managing Childcare
In terms of childcare concerns, there are two major issues. The first is
childcare options and the second is differences in parenting styles. Let’s
briefly address both.
CHILDCARE OPTIONS
It can be challenging to agree on arrangements for childcare in family
small groups. Here are some suggestions.
• No one brings children and everyone arranges their
own childcare
• The group can hire a group baby sitter and share the expense
• Parents can take turns babysitting during the meeting
• Alternate weeks where the men meet and then the women meet
and one set stays home together with the children
• May be able to meet on Thursday night at Calvary with
childcare available
PARENTING STYLES
Most people feel very strongly about their parenting style. This includes
discipline and boundaries for their children. It is best to hold an open
conversation about ground rules for managing children in the host home.
Here are some simple suggestions.
• Agree that all parents have right to stop a child from doing
something that will harm themselves or others
• If a child is reprimanded, the parent should be informed at the
end of the meeting
• Request that each host family establish “house rules.” Each host
family has particular rules that adults and children should abide
by in the host home
• The child’s parent should care for all bathroom or diapering
needs for young children. Ask the children or caregiver to seek
out a parent during the meeting for bathroom needs.
37
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small
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Additional Resources.
Sample Ice Breaker Questions
Ice Breaker questions are helpful as people get to know each other,
especially because there is no “right” answer and it gives everyone
a chance to share personal stories. You can also use Ice Breaker Qs
at group meals or other social gatherings even after the group has
been together for a while because it is a fun way to have intentional
conversation to learn something new about each other.
What was your very first job?
What was the best and worst thing that happened this week?
What is the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?
What was your best vacation?
If you could speak to Jesus face to face, what would you ask him?
What qualities do you most value in a friend?
What is something good happening in your life and what makes it good?
If your house were on fire, what would you grab?
What are three things you would take to a deserted island?
Who are your three heroes?
If you could go back in time and meet anyone, what person would you meet and what would you ask them?
How many siblings do you have? Did you like your place in the birth order?
How did your family celebrate Thanksgiving or Christmas?
How did you choose your child’s name?
Are you named after someone?
What was your church background? Did you go to church as a child?
What was the best day of your life? What was the worst day?
When did you first realize Jesus was real?
Did you take vacations with your family when you were a child?
What was the most memorable family trip?
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
What was the kindest thing some did for you or said to you?
What is your favorite Easter candy?
What is the thing that scares you the most?
Which cartoon character represents you best?
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Biblical Principles and Key Scriptures for Conflict Management
BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES FOR CONFLICT MANAGEMENT
UNHEALTHY CONFLICT
(James 4:2)
VS.
BIBLICAL CONFLICT
RESOLUTION (Matt. 5:23-26)
Seeks win/lose
Leads to win/win
Tends to divide/choose sides
Seeks reconciliation/choose
steps
Exaggerates strife
Speaks truth in love
Is an end in itself
Is a means to an end
Tears down
Clears path toward
improvement
Usually has a hidden agenda
Is only about what is in the
open
Comes from person pushing
an issue
Brought by necessity in
community
Is a battle
Is work
Is usually hard
Is usually hard
KEY SCRIPTURES FOR CONFLICT MANAGEMENT
• Mirror rather than try to change people’s feelings. (Rom. 12:15, 1 Cor. 12:26)
• Express real emotions, but do not sin. (Eph. 4:26-27)
• Settle private disputes privately. (Matt. 18:15-17)
• Keep NO record of wrongs. (1 Cor. 13:5) ~ Seek to edify and be gracious. (Eph. 4:29-32)
• Think before you speak. (Prov. 15:23, 28) ~ Speak truth in love. (Eph. 4:15, 25)
• Do not return insult for insult. (1 Peter 3:8-9)
• Check your motives for conflict. (James 4:1-2, Prov.13:10)
• Pursue peace and edification in relationships. (Rom. 14:19)
• Avoid needless quarrels. (Prov. 20:3, 2 Tim. 2:24)
• Remember groups’ interests as well as your own. (Phil. 2:4)
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Biblical “One Another” Phrases
SOME OF THE NEW TESTAMENT “ONE ANOTHER” VERSES
Be at peace with one another (Mark 9:50)
Love one another (John 13:34)
Be devoted to one another (Rom. 12:10)
Honor one another (Rom. 12:10)
Live in harmony with one another (Rom. 12:16)
Stop passing judgment on one another (Rom. 14:13)
Accept one another (Rom. 15:7)
Instruct one another (Rom. 15:14)
Greet one another (Rom. 16:16)
Serve one another (Gal. 5:13)
Carry one another’s burden (Gal. 6:2)
Be patient, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:2)
Be kind and compassionate to one another (Eph. 4:32)
Forgive one another (Eph. 4:32)
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs (Eph. 5:19)
Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Eph. 5:21)
In humility consider others better than yourselves (Phil. 2:3)
Teach one another (Col. 3:16)
Admonish one another (Col. 3;16)
Encourage one another (1 Thess. 4:18)
Build one another up (1 Thess. 5:11)
Spur one another on toward love and good deeds (Heb. 10:24)
Do not slander one another (James 4:11)
Don’t grumble against one another (James 5:9)
Confess your sins to one another (James 5:16)
Pray for one another (James 5:16)
Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another (1 Peter 5:5)
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