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Why Small Groups?
by Lew Wilder
We talk a lot about small groups, accountability groups, discipleship groups, singles groups, couples groups, youth small groups, and many other kinds of groups here at Niceville First UMC. Many people ask why all the emphasis on small groups? I will give you three answers to that question in this brief article, and there are many more!
First, we emphasize small groups here because small group community is a primary felt need in America. People want to belong, to be connected with other people, and being in a small group helps meet that need and want.
Secondly, life transformation can happen in the small group. Small groups are a great tool for helping people move from doing life alone to doing life together. Larry Crabb, noted psychologist and author, calls the small group the safest place on earth. He says it is a place where you can become real to a few people who love you and care for you and are there to support and encourage you in your journey through life.
Thirdly, the small group is the primary model of community found in the New Testament. The book of Acts teaches that the early church met as a church gathered in homes, and Jesus modeled it in his own life and ministry.
Our goal for you is that you become connected with the family of God here at Niceville, and we encourage you to find a small group to make that connection.
