Date: 10-12-2020

Title: Small Groups

(S) cripture:
    Acts 2:42-47 (NASB) They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; 45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.

(O) bservation:
    In its beginning the church was together and committed to certain behaviors that caused them to grow. The church was committed to sound teaching and doctrine, taking care of each other and meet for worship and fellowship. The believers met together for worship but in smaller groups for care and fellowship. It is an example for us to follow as we seek to grow as a church.

(A) pplication:
    The idea of small groups is not new. We see it here in the New Testament but as Baptists we have been committed to small groups for years and years. We call the small groups, Sunday School Classes. In addition to the Sunday School Classes we also have women’s and men’s Bible studies and affinity groups that meet for study, caring and fellowship. The small grouping of people gives people a chance to form deep personal relationships that help them grow as disciples of Jesus. Today I want to affirm those who lead these groups and the important ministry they carry out each week. As pastors we cannot care for all the people every day like their small groups can. We can be there in crises, but every day care comes best from those small groups.

(P) rayer:
    Lord, thank you for all the leaders of small groups that care so well for their people. Help me honor and equip them. I pray that many people will find that small group of people to grow with as they follow Christ.