Small Group Guidelines
Apr 24, 2022 | by Mike Prah
FavorLife Small Group Guidelines
These guidelines help create an environment where meaningful relationships can flourish, spiritual growth can occur, and every participant feels welcomed, valued, and encouraged. By participating in a FavorLife Small Group, we agree to pursue the following commitments together:
1. Clear Purpose
We are committed to growing healthy spiritual lives by building a healthy Small Group community centered on Christ, His Word, and His mission.
"Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose." — Philippians 2:2 (NLT)
2. Faithful Participation
We value our time together and recognize that consistent attendance strengthens relationships and spiritual growth. If we are unable to attend a meeting, we will make every effort to notify the group leader or another group member.
"All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No.'" — Matthew 5:37 (NIV)
3. Create a Safe Environment
We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and grace-filled environment where people can share openly without fear of criticism, judgment, or condemnation.
We will:
- Listen respectfully.
- Avoid interrupting others.
- Refrain from quick fixes or simplistic answers.
- Show grace when we disagree.
- Avoid political debates and divisive discussions.
- Refrain from promoting or selling products and services within the group.
"For you will be treated as you treat others." — Matthew 7:2–5 (NIV)
4. Maintain Confidentiality
Trust is essential for authentic community. Therefore, we commit to protecting the privacy of one another.
What is shared within the group stays within the group, unless someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, or disclosure is required for safety and care.
"Don't betray another person's secret." — Proverbs 25:9–10 (NLT)
5. Practice Biblical Conflict Resolution
When misunderstandings or disagreements arise, we will seek to resolve them biblically and directly rather than through gossip or unhealthy conversations.
We commit to following the principles of Matthew 18:15–17 by speaking privately and respectfully with the person involved whenever possible.
"If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense." — Matthew 18:15–17 (NLT)
6. Pursue Spiritual Growth
We recognize that Small Groups are places for learning, growth, and mutual encouragement.
As we discuss Scripture and life experiences together, we will seek wisdom from God's Word and remain teachable. While group discussions may include a variety of perspectives, we will always strive to anchor our beliefs and decisions in biblical truth.
"There is safety in having many advisers." — Proverbs 11:14 (NLT)
Our Group Focus
E — Encourage One Another
S — Share and Discuss Scripture
P — Pray for One Another
7. Consider Others Before Ourselves
Out of love for one another, we willingly limit certain personal freedoms when necessary to avoid causing another believer to stumble or feel uncomfortable.
For example, FavorLife Small Groups will not serve alcohol during group gatherings or organize activities that may compromise our Christian witness or hinder another person's spiritual growth.
“So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Don’t tear apart the work of God over what you eat. Remember, all foods are acceptable, but it is wrong to eat something if it makes another person stumble. It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything else if it might cause another believer to stumble.” — Romans 14:19–21 (NLT)
8. Welcome Newcomers
We will maintain an inviting atmosphere by warmly welcoming guests and encouraging others to experience the benefits of biblical community.
We will look for opportunities to invite family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and others who may benefit from fellowship, prayer, and spiritual growth.
"Accept each other just as Christ has accepted you." — Romans 15:7 (NLT)
9. Build Meaningful Relationships
Healthy Small Groups are built on genuine relationships.
We commit to getting to know one another, caring for one another, encouraging one another, and praying for one another both inside and outside of our regular group meetings.
"Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other." — Romans 12:10 (NLT)
10. Serve Others Together
We believe that spiritual growth naturally leads to serving others.
Each Small Group is encouraged to identify practical ways to demonstrate Christ's love by serving people within the church and throughout the community. This may include supporting a local food bank, serving a nursing home, assisting a family in need, supporting first responders, or participating in community outreach opportunities.
"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others." — 1 Peter 4:10 (NLT)
11. Share Responsibility
Small Groups are healthiest when everyone participates.
While each group has a designated leader, every member can contribute by helping facilitate discussions, hosting meetings, organizing fellowship activities, coordinating service projects, caring for group members, and supporting the overall mission of the group.
Together we create an environment where everyone can grow, belong, and serve.
"For we are God's fellow workers." — 1 Corinthians 3:9 (NIV)
Our Commitment
As members of a FavorLife Small Group, we commit to pursuing Christ together through fellowship, Scripture, prayer, service, encouragement, and authentic community. By God's grace, we will strive to create a group environment where people are loved, supported, challenged, and equipped to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
Life is better together.