LIFE GROUP IS CRITICAL TO THE CHURCH'S ABILITY TO "DEVOTE " (suggesting a passionate
mind-body-soul commitment) ITSELF TO THESE FOUR THINGS:
1. TEACHING
Although we receive the “apostles’ teaching” on Sunday mornings via the sermon, we can’t truly “devote” ourselves to it without really digging into it, talking about it, and encouraging one another with it! WE NEED LIFE GROUP FOR THAT!
2. FELLOWSHIP
The Greek word that is translated as “fellowship” here is the word koinonia, meaning to share on a life level. We see this throughout the New Testament “one another” passages... Love one another, encourage one another, serve one another, etc. Although we experience a measure of this on Sunday morning, we can’t possibly connect on a life level during that short time. WE NEED LIFE GROUP FOR THAT!
3. BREAKING
BREAD
Although we share the elements of communion together on the first Sunday of each month, we don’t at that time get to share in a larger meal where listening and laughter and care for concerns take place.
WE NEED LIFE GROUP FOR THAT!
4. PRAYER
Although we pray together on Sunday mornings, we don’t pray at the level of intimacy that we need to in order to really grow and be strengthened in our faith. WE NEED LIFE GROUP FOR THAT!
WHY
LIFE GROUPS?
WHAT ABOUT
SUNDAY MORNING
WORSHIP?
Gathering together on Sunday to worship in a large group is very important.
Hebrews 10:25 tells us that we should not “[stay] away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but [we should encourage] each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
In our corporate gatherings, we experience the majesty of God. Corporate worship also helps us see that we are part of a bigger community of believers. We gather together primarily to worship God and hear His Word preached.
But the worship service by itself is not enough. Being in a Life Group is just as important! It’s where we experience the closeness of God. The goal of the Life Group is to help us experience Jesus up close and personal.