One of the most awesome qualities about Saddleback small groups is that they balance the Biblical purposes from the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. So, each small group finds their own ways to worship God, join in fellowship together, grow in discipleship, reach out to others who don’t know Christ, and also to serve or minister to others. Many small groups have a “champion” for each of these five purposes, using the “Don’t Lead Alone” CD set that every person gets when they attend Leader Training 1. Some use the “250 Big Ideas” book that’s also given free at LT1. But in this post, we want to share a few keys about serving, how your group ministers to others.
1. There is no one way or one ministry in serving. Your small group may feel drawn to get involved with a campus-based ministry, like baptism or CLASS. Or, people may love the idea of serving those less fortunate through rebuilding Compton or Santa Ana, or serving in the motel ministry. Just do what suits your group.
2. Try different ministries until you find one that clicks. Don’t dismiss a ministry opportunity because “it doesn’t feel right.” It might not initially, but your group might find that it’s a great growth opportunity that takes everyone out of their comfort zone and makes them more receptive to what God wants them to learn.
3. Serving regularly builds your health. Don’t just do one project a year, check it off of your to-do list and call it good. That’s like going to the fitness center once a year and thinking that you’re helping your health.
[to be continued]
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