Q & A
Q & A Discussion: Bill Search
As a pastor or director, how much control should I enforce over what our church's small groups are studying?
| Topics: | Curriculum, Delegating, Flexibility, Shaping |
| Filters: | Coach, Director, Pastor, Train |
| Purpose: | Discipleship |
| References: | None |
| Date Added: | March 30, 2009 |
When it comes to small groups, the idea of "control" always makes me laugh. It's near impossible to control groups, especially since we can't eavesdrop on every meeting. On top of that, many groups cherish their independence.
At my church, we want groups to prayerfully consider what they should discuss together. If some members are struggling with Christian perspectives on money, for example, the group should have the freedom to work through a discussion on finances. If the group wants to explore aspects of godly parenting, they should be able to find a helpful study on that topic. One significant strength of small groups is the ability for the participants to "pastor" each other with topics that immediately impact them. That's something harder to pull off in classrooms and worship centers.
So if we attempt to force groups to comply with our curriculum choices, we will either stifle that pastoral spirit or drive the groups "underground." Most likely, we'll lose the opportunity to help them.
Instead of control, we should strive for influence. I prefer to help groups by exploring curriculum for them and then making recommendations. In my experience, most groups want suggestions and gentle direction when it comes to what to study. They don't want to be told what to do, but they are grateful when we do the homework for them and help them avoid bad curriculum. We can influence what groups study by printing short lists of recommended materials. Avoid printing long lists of study guides, since this is just as overwhelming for leaders as going to the Christian bookstore. Instead, focus on the best materials you can locate.
I have found that one of the best ways to influence what groups study is by providing good curriculum for free from time to time. Sometimes my team creates study materials and sometimes we purchase it. But many groups are thankful for a free study and will take it because the price is right. Our motive is to influence the group, while the group's motive is to save a few dollars. In the end, we're all happy.
So forget about control and embrace influence.
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If it were me, I'd do some research as to why people take issue with Beth Moore. I've also heard from people who have some issues with her teaching. I have never listened to her myself. I'd do some serious thinking about the issues raised according to what others are saying, what your pastor says, etc. Then bring that before the group. Present the arguments in order to promote some serious discussion, and see what happens. Ultimately, you'll find some real value in what Beth Moore teaches, but more importantly, people can learn how to assess what they take in with some healthy critical thinking - not for the sake of cynicism, but to grow with one another. That's just my thought.
If the church does not agree, then we should not use the study. If the church is way off on doctrine then we should find a new church.
I have a web base library with resources that have been "approved". My rule is...if you have a resource you want to use and it isn't in the library, just let me know and I'll look at it and purchase, unless it is sharply contrast one of our major church doctrines. I make judgment calls depending on the maturity of the individual leader and their understanding of our doctrine.
One of the small groups, held at my home, is always a Beth Moore Bible Study. We just love the way God uses her to bring the people in the Bible true and alive to us, so we can relate. Plus the homework gives us time alone with God. But my church doesn't really agree with everything she says, so I purchase the studies myself. God supplies the money everytime. But I feel bad because I feel like my Pastor doesn't support this Bible Study. But he does the small group. Don't get me wrong. NO One says NO dont do it. What do you think about that?
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