LifeSpring Leaders Manual
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1 LifeSpring Leaders Manual
Transcript of LifeSpring Leaders Manual
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LifeSpring
Leaders Manual
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Table of Contents
Vision and Values……………………………………………………………………………………..3
What is a LifeGroup?………………………………………………………………..……………….4
Who is a LifeGroup Leader?…………………………………………………………………..……5
How We Grow and Reproduce………………………………………………………………….….7
How We Lead Well……………………………………………………………………………...…….9
Avoiding Burnout…………………………………………………………………………………...13
What to do with Doctrine…………………………………………………………………………..15
How to Lead Great Discussions………………………………………………………...…….….16
How to Handle Challenging Personalities….……………...…………………………………...19
Why and How We Develop Apprentice Leaders...……………………………………………..22
How to Coach………………………………………………………………………………………..28
How to do Social Outreach………………………………………………………...………….…..32
How to do Service Outreach…………………………………………….………………………...34
Appendix
Support and Resources…………………………………………………………………...……….36
The LifeSpring Path…………………………………………………………………………..…….38
The LifeSpring Leadership Covenant…………………………………………………..……….39
Accountability Questions……………………………..…..………………………………………42
Assessing Your Needs, Questionnaire………………………………………….…..………….44
Bible Storying….………………………………………………………………………….………...45
Dealing with Doctrinal Issues…………………………………………………………………….47
Suggested Reading List…………………………………………………………………..……….53
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Vision and Values
Vision (What We Do)
The Vision of LifeGroups is the same as that of LifeSpring, “Joining God in Restoring a Broken
World”. LifeGroups do this by making disciples that make disciples and creating LifeGroups that
create LifeGroups.
The vision for LifeGroups at LifeSpring is that they would be the heartbeat and foundation of the
Church. LifeGroups are the primary place at LifeSpring where people are loved and discipled in
values and vision of the Church, creating groups of people that embody those same values and
vision. Inevitably LifeGroups should be welcoming outsiders, living on mission, and growing in
both size and depth, while driving the larger church to do the same.
Values (How We Do It)
Our LifeGroups live by 8 core values, made up of the 5 core values of LifeSpring and the 3
additional LifeGroup values. These core values are a foundation on which the culture of our
LifeGroups are built, and function as the rules and spirit by which each group operates.
The 5 LifeSpring Core Values
Grace: We need it, we give it.
Truth: God’s word is the foundation.
Family: “WE” is better than “ME”. Growth: God has so much more for us.
Love: love God, love people.
The 3 Additional LifeGroup Values
Authenticity: There is value in what's real.
Confidentiality: What we hear and say here, stays here.
Humility: No perfect people allowed.
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What is a LifeGroup?
At the end of the day, a LifeGroup is the Church, lived out in all its fullness on a cellular level.
LifeSpring leaders will tell you if there was a situation where you were only able to attend one
LifeSpring event per week, we would recommend you attend a healthy LifeGroup over a service
every time, and we mean that. Because LifeGroups are where Church really happens and is not
merely observed.
Groups AND Teams
LifeGroups should be both groups and teams. A group indicates a gathering of people that
focus inward, identify together and take care of one another focusing on internal needs. Teams,
on the other hand, are focused on impacting the world around them and accomplishing a goal.
Teams are defined by movement and direction, not just their internal strength. A LifeGroup
should be both a group and a team and should value the family life support and love, while
never losing focus or drive towards their mission.
Vision and Values
A LifeGroup is a family of believers living out the vision of the church while holding to their
values. A LifeGroup is a group of people “joining God in restoring a broken world,” by “becoming
a disciple that makes disciples.” They are living lives of grace, truth, family, growth, love,
authenticity, confidentiality, and humility.
Characteristics
LifeGroups play an essential role in the LifeSpring Path, they are the greatest way for the
church to help people who want to GROW in connecting to fellowship and community. For this
reason, LifeGroups are defined by three primary characteristics. These three characteristics are:
1. Long Term: LifeGroups are not short-term experiments or groups that meet to go
through a one-time curriculum.
2. Open: LifeGroups should be open to newcomers, growing the church, community, and
reproducing additional groups and leaders.
3. Missional Fellowship: The primary goal of a LifeGroup is to build community fellowship
and connection while living on mission with others from LifeSpring. (Growth in
knowledge is a goal but should be secondary).
LifeGroups are a gathering of multi-generational individuals coming together as a family to live
out all the diverse stages of life and encourage and disciple one another. Holding fast to a
mutual goal of drawing nearer to Christ. LifeGroups are encouraged to have a sense of
responsibility for the neighborhood or town in which they meet and live.
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Who is a LifeGroup Leader?
The Role of a LifeGroup Leader
The LifeGroup Leaders’ primary role is to help group members take their next steps with God by
creating a biblical community. This is more of an art than a science, but it comes through
balancing the health of three distinct relationships. First, cultivating a loving and growing
relationship with God. Second, cultivating real friendships that help people develop stronger
connections with the church. And third, cultivating the group members relationships with God’s
mission. This happens by learning to be outwardly focused with your life.
In short, a LifeGroup Leader takes ownership of encouraging every member of the group to be
growing in all 5 areas of GROW on the LifeSpring Path (see appendix 2), and that they are
given the vision or goal of GO, becoming a disciple that makes disciples.
Your role is not to disciple everyone in the group, but to see that everyone gets discipled.
Similarly, your role is not to be the best friends with everyone in the group, but to see that
everyone develops friendships.
Character and Expectations of a LifeGroup Leader
“...set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Until I
come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” - 1
Timothy 4:12-13
All LifeGroup Leaders are expected to adhere to, and sign levels one and two of the LifeSpring
Leadership Covenant (see appendix 3). This covenant establishes a standard of life and
ministry for each stage of leadership development at LifeSpring Community Christian Church.
We believe these commitments will strengthen the church, multiply disciples for the expansion
of God’s Kingdom, and ultimately glorify God in all things.
Apprentice Leaders should strive to adhere to level one of the Leadership covenant. Apprentice Leaders may be at differing levels of development to it is understood that expectations may differ, but if an apprentice has made their position formal with the LifeGroup leader they should be held to the level one standards .
Responsibilities of a LifeGroup Leader
1. Being the hands and feet of Christ to every member of your group in your love for them.
2. Having materials and discussions prepared prior to your group’s meeting or prepping the
person who you have assigned to do this.
3. Maintaining a relationship with your LifeGroup Coach (contact at least once a month),
with a focus on your continued development as a leader.
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4. Reading and reviewing all messages sent to LifeGroup Leaders by the Connections
Minister and other Leaders via the LifeGroup Leaders and Apprentices Group on the
LifeSpring HUB.
5. Attending roundtables if able and completing required bi-annual GHA reports
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How We Grow and Multiply
LifeGroups are the heart of this church and if the heart is not passionate about reaching the lost
with the Gospel and seeing the kingdom grow than the rest of our body will not. LifeSpring has a
passion to see growth, to see more people connect in community and grow in Christ. Lifegroups
should drive and be a source of our growth, never be a bottleneck that restricts the growth of the
entire body.
It is for this reason that we ask our LifeGroups to have a multiplication spirit. It is possible to
start new groups from scratch, but this is not a sustainable growth model. Our groups should
always be looking to grow and multiply in healthy ways. To do this we have to be sure we
understand all that is needed to launch a new group.
The 5 Key Areas Needed For Growth and Multiplication:
People
Leadership
Location
Resources
Culture
It is vital that all five of these areas are addressed in the multiplication of any group. If anyone of
these areas is not addressed it can lead to unhealthy growth, obstacle and even the failure of
one or both of the groups.
6 Steps to Birthing a New Group:
- Identify your best path: not every LifeGroup is alike. In fact, no two groups have the
same path to multiplication. Before attempting to launch a new group think through the
best path for your group. Actually, you should not wait until you’re ready to launch a new
group, as a leader you should think through this NOW. Different groups will have
different factors like: what size is the best size to multiply into two groups, does a group
want to operate as a “hub” group where both groups still meet in the same location but
then separate, will your groups distinguishing characteristics change after launching a
new group. Think through all these factors as soon as you can, and if you are unsure
talk to your Leaders Coach or the Connections Minister.
- Make apprentices: identify, appoint, train, and encourage apprentice leaders. No leader
should ever be without some form of an apprentice. If there is no one in your LifeGroup
prepared to take on a formal apprenticeship than identify the people you feel are most
likely to develop into an apprentice. Be intentional about encouraging them in that
direction. Remember you are not there to be your apprentice’s teacher, you are there to
be their coach. You are preparing them to do what you do, and you are giving them
opportunities to do just that. An apprentice that has had real practice leading is far more
likely to be successful when they lead their own group.
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- Prepare apprentice leaders: connect apprentice leaders to coaches and staff for
commissioning as full LifeGroup Leaders. It is important that before you send an
apprentice leader out to lead their own group that you connect them to all the resources
and support that you have, to give them the best opportunity to succeed.
- Plan and create physical space: be aware of what affect growth will have on your
meeting place. If your optimal number for birthing a new group is 20, will your current
location hold that many? Or, will you have to move prior to birthing a new group? When
you become two groups, do you have a second location? And how will that location
affect the group? Most importantly, if your physical location is slowing or stopping your
growth, or if it has put a glass ceiling on the group, talk to you Leaders Coach or the
Connection Minister. This is a problem we CAN fix.
- Prepare the culture: Culture is the most important part of preparing a group for the
launch of a new group. When a group’s culture is not prepared, the launch of a new
group can feel like a violent split that tears apart a family, instead of an opportunity and a
win for us to celebrate. There are a number of practical ways to prepare a group’s
culture. One is to cultivate subgroups. This means separating the full group into smaller
sections for specific activities. For example, a group of 12 might separate into two
groups of 6 at the end of the meeting for a time of prayer. It is important to keep these
groups consistent, not changing who is in what group. Always have your apprentice
leader, who will lead the future LifeGroup, in the subgroup you are not in. This will give
your apprentice great solo experience and create a second group culture and identity.
Give forethought to who would be best in each subgroup and over time you can spend
more and more time in these subgroups.
- Cast the vision: the biggest part of preparing a culture for launching a new group is
casting a vision they can take ownership of. If the people in your LifeGroup understand
the purpose of the group and how it can accomplish the mission of the Church, they will
be far less likely to be selfish and want the group to stay just how they like it. That is why
it is so important to lovingly cast a selfless missional vision for growth.
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How We Lead Well
Be Prepared
The preparation that is most important to leading well is the preparation of the spirit. This is not
just some feel-good thing we say, people respond to, and are inspired by a leader that leads out
of an abundant and genuine overflow. Charles Spurgeon said, “take it as a rule without
exception, to be overflowing one must first be full.” Taking personal time to “fill up” by reading
scripture, praying, and growing your relationship with Christ is the best preparation for a
LifeGroup leader, even if that preparation has no relation to the group’s current subject matter.
Prepare your materials and subject matter before the group meets, but do so with the mindset of
a guide, not a professor. A good LifeGroup leader should know their material ahead of time, but
this does not mean they need to be a subject matter expert. It is more important for a leader to
know where the material is going. Your LifeGroup members do not need someone prepared to
give a sermon on the material you will cover. They need someone to spark and guide their
genuine conversation along the path the material is designed to take. As a leader, you should
be prepared to dispel confusion, transition between topics, and bring out the heart of the
material. However never allow this preparation to overshadow the needs of your group
members, in some cases, a rabbit trail can be more important than the intended material and as
the leader, you are the best judge of when that is happening.
Pray, Pray, Pray
Prayer has power, in fact in many ways’ prayer is power, don’t miss out on the most powerful
way you can help your group. Remember to pray, pray, pray; by this, we want to remind you to
pray in three ways. First, ask others to pray for your leadership and the group, there is power in
the humility and faith that is involved in asking others for prayer. Second, pray in preparation.
Spending time alone with God in preparation to minister to others is something that Christ
himself models for us in scripture. Third, pray at the group. God wants to partner with us and
inviting the Holy Spirit into our gatherings is a powerful way to start a meeting. There is value in
spending time as a group each gathering to invite the spirit to come and move. However, this
can also be expressed as a personal reliance on the Spirit in silent prayer, asking for his
guidance and prompting.
Use Your Resources and Your People
A good LifeGroup Leader relies on God first, and the people and resources that God has given
them second. As a leader, you are not meant to do things alone. The more you can delegate
and develop leadership in others the healthier your group will be in the long term, and the
healthier you members will become. What is more, it will make it far more likely that future
leaders will be produced from within your group.
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At the same time, don’t forget your physical resources. Take a moment to look over the
Resource and Support appendix in this manual for a list of some of these physical resources.
However, don’t stop there, take time on a regular basis to think about resources you can
leverage for the good of your LifeGroup. For example, do you have a swim club membership
where you might be able to invite your group members, or maybe you have a great fire pit in
your backyard the group could have a great experience meeting around sometime. Sometimes
just stopping and trying to think outside of the box can create great opportunities you have
never previously considered.
Cultivate a Good Physical Atmosphere
The most important part of the physical atmosphere of the group is you. It is important that
people attending your LifeGroup to feel like they are welcome and that you are excited to see
them from the time they walk in the door. Remember, people feel the difference between being
welcome and merely being invited. Try and create an environment that will cultivate good
fellowship and conversation while the group is going on. If at all possible, make sure everyone
can make eye contact with everyone else in the group. Pay attention to smell and what items
you have laying around. Bad smells are one of the fastest ways to drive a person away, and
controversial materials can leave a guest with the wrong impression. Try and keep all pets out
of the meeting area, not everyone is an animal lover and pets can be distracting. Also,
remember that many people suffer from pet allergies so make sure you are making every effort
to accommodate those who do and checking with new members or guests to see if they have
any sensitivities.
There can and should be very serious moments and discussions, but plan for and allow time for
fun. Food goes a long way in helping this happen. If you are going to have food make sure to
communicate the plan for it clearly to your group members. If you’re going to have a lot of food
you don’t want people to show up full and feel rude for refusing to eat more. On the other hand,
if you have food regularly and decide to stop or reduce the amount it is important to let people
know. A hungry person expecting food that does not get it will not be left with a good impression
and will be distracted during the meeting time.
Cultivate a Good Spiritual Atmosphere
It is essential to create a safe environment where everyone feels included and valued. The three
LifeGroup values are key to making this a reality in the group. Confidentiality must be cast by
the leader as a priority. Members and guests need to feel that what they say in the group will
stay in the group. Humility should be modeled by the leader. A humble and vulnerable leader
will break down walls, but a proud or boastful leader will create a feeling of judgment or
expectation of legalistic standards. Authenticity should also be modeled by a leader. Members
of a group will nearly always take the tone and habits of the leader if you are real and authentic
others will be too. Finally, it is important to make sure everyone feels comfortable in passing on
any question they don’t wish to answer, and you should make sure everyone always knows they
have that right.
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Listen and Understand
You cannot be a great communicator if you are not first a great listener. James 1 tells us to “be
quick to listen, and slow to speak.” It is can be good practice to repeat this verse to themselves
on a regular basis. In Joel Comiskey’s book How to Lead a Great Cell Group Meeting, he gives
some important tips for becoming a great listener and for helping your LifeGroup members learn
to become great listeners:
- Listen to what is not said (gestures, body language, etc.).
- Listen to feedback from group members about your leadership.
- Refuse to answer your own questions (Don’t be afraid of Silence!)
- Ask the group for additional responses after one person has shared.
- Limit advice giving in the group.
Stay on the Rails
The most important part of keeping your LifeGroup on the rails is to make sure the group is
acting in accordance with the core values: grace, truth, family, growth, love, confidentiality,
authenticity, and humility. Here are some additional ground rules for making sure your group
stays on the rails:
- Encourage everyone to make the group a priority.
- Encourage everyone to participate and jump in during discussions and group activities.
- Make the growing of new friendships a priority
- Always keep an “empty chair” ready for new people to join your group.
- Make yourself available to your group members and live life together.
- Avoid burnout and long absences or inactivity.
Celebrate the Wins
One of the best ways a person can be a good leader is to always celebrate the wins! Before
every LifeGroup gathering, take a moment to think about whether you have heard about any
wins someone in the group has been experiencing and make a point of celebrating and
encouraging those thing at some point during the gathering. Make it a personal habit to look for
wins during conversation and when one is expressed make sure to acknowledge and celebrate
it as a group. It is often good to pause the conversation and just congratulate and encourage the
person who is experiencing the win.
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Remember wins can be big or small, it is great to celebrate both a baptism and member that lost
the first 2 lbs in their weightloss goal. Wins can also be faith based or not, it is also good to
celebrate both someone who tithed for the first time and someone who just got a new job. Also,
remember wins can be personal or corporate, it is essential that the LifeGroups corporate wins
are celebrated alongside the wins of each of its members. We should always celebrate a
successful group social or service outreach, or just an increase in attendance or consistancy.
When you as a leader can tie a win to the mission or vision of the LifeGroup you find there is a
powerful growth that will result, and when a culture of celebrating wins catches on in a group
there is a powerful bond that will form.
Wins can often be taking a step along the LifeSpring Path for one of your group members. This
next step could be baptism, tithing, serving, joining a team, ect., be sure to celebrate this as a
LifeGroup community. Have them share with the group, if they are comfortable doing so, and if
appropriate, pray for them as a group, celebrating this next step in their faith journey. If you
know someone is going to be baptized, encourage the LifeGroup members to attend the service
and cheer them on as a family.
Take Group Health Assessments
A good leader knows to actively participate in both personal and group assessment and
reflection. An important part of navigating to where you want to go is knowing where you are.
Likewise, you won’t know that you’re sick if you ignore all the symptoms. Taking a Group Health
Assessment (GHA) twice a year is one way we try to help each LifeGroup Leader stay on top of
how their group is doing. This is also helpful in keeping goals fresh and not losing track of the
groups vision.
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Avoiding Burnout
“To do great work a man must be very idle as well as very industrious."
--SAMUEL BUTLER
Keep an Inspiring Vision
When people lose vision, they lose hope. When perspectives get bogged down because of how
much something is costing people, they will lose sight of why they got involved in the first place.
Strongly lead yourself and your team here - never lose sight of the vision. Learn to cast a
compelling vision and inspire your group members. Make a regular habit of celebrating and
communicating wins, you and the group are experiencing to keep building momentum.
Keep Connected
Every LifeGroup leader should keep connected to the LifeGroup Coaching Network, lean into
your coach during a time of need. Before you ever find yourself in a time of need, be intentional
about building a relationship with your coach. Please remember you can’t do this alone, and we
would hate for you to feel like you’re all alone out there.
Balance Your Calendar
Perhaps the most important part of avoiding burnout is simply to be intentional. An intentional
person manages their time, they do not let time manage them. Intentionality starts with your
calendar, think through how you spend and balance your time.
Review your calendar. It may not seem like you are overloaded until you put everything down on
a calendar. Seeing your commitments and schedule laid out all at once can be an eye-opening
experience. Also, remember to think in terms of different measurements of time. It is important
to build in times of recovery and refreshment that correlate to different time intervals in your life.
Try to think in terms of days, weeks, seasons, and season of life. We should have daily breaks,
weekly sabbaths, seasonal escapes or vacations, and sabbaticals for certain responsibilities at
different times of life.
Take a Sabbath
Even with a well-balanced calendar, we can still burn out without the presence of a weekly
Sabbath in our lives. This is a critical practice that is is all too easy to let slip away with
busyness. Even when we remember to take time for Sabbath we can often miss what the
purpose of Sabbath really is.
“The purpose of Sabbath is not simply to rejuvenate yourself in order to do more production, nor
is it the pursuit of pleasure. The purpose of Sabbath is to enjoy your God, life in general, what
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you have accomplished in the world through his help, and the freedom you have in the gospel-
the freedom from slavery to any material object or human expectation. The Sabbath is a sign of
the hope that we have in the world to come.” - Time Keller
In short, we need time for true leisure. Josef Pieper gives a great description of leisure when he
says, “leisure is the condition of considering things in a spirit of celebration…. Leisure lives on affirmation. It is not the same as the absence of activity….It is rather like the stillness in the
conversation of lovers, which is fed by their oneness….And as it is written in scriptures, God saw, when he had rested from all the works that he had made that everything was good, very
good (Gen 1:31), just so the leisure of man includes within itself a celebratory, approving,
lingering gaze of the inner eye on the reality of creation.”
Don’t be Afraid to Say “No”
Learn to say “no.” No matter who is asking or what they are asking, if the price is burnout, the
answer should be No! If you are in burnout it will kill not only the very thing you were asked to
do but also all of your other efforts. Doing two things well is usually, far more beneficial for
everyone, than doing ten things poorly.
If you are struggling with burnout one resource, we recommend is Wayne Cordeiro’s
book Leading on Empty: Refilling Your Tank and Renewing Your Passion. It has some
great insights such as his seven lessons for avoiding burnout.
Seven Lessons:
1. Do Not Overproduce ‘Come back tomorrow’ 2. Steward Your Energy: Invest bursts of energy more intentionally
3. Rest Well: It’s the space between the notes that makes the music
4. Exercise Your Way to Recovery
5. Eating Your Way to a Good Life
6. Recharge Daily
7. Fight for Your Family
A great way to avoid future burnout or help address the burnout you are currently
experiencing, and use the “Assessing Your Needs, Questionnaire” located in Appendix 5
of this manual.
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What to do with Doctrine
How to handle hot button topics, debatable doctrine, and complex theology
Doctrine, hot button topics, and complex theology will inevitable come up in any good LifeGroup
over time. Sometimes a person will ask a question about one of these issues. Sometimes a
person in the group will express a belief that is from others in the group or put a level of
certainty or emphasis on a belief that is different from others in the group. You may also simply
come upon these subjects yourself in the process of preparing for or having a discussion.
Whenever issues or questions of doctrine arise you must remember two things as a LifeGroup
Leader.
First, if you don’t know how to respond, or even if you are slightly unsure of how to respond, say
“I don’t know” or “I’m not sure”. LifeGroup Leaders are not expected to know the answer to all,
or even most, doctrinal questions. They are expected not to make things up, or even try to be
falsely confident to avoid feeling embarrassed or like they are failing in their duties. If you are
even mildly unsure of the answer to a doctrinal question, or if you are even mildly unsure of how
LifeSpring would address such a question, then the proper response is to let your group know
you are unsure but will look into the question further. After which, you should contact your
LifeGroup Coach or the Connections Minister for clarification on how to respond and follow up
with your group. If you have difficulty or concerns with the answers provided by your Coach or
the Connections Minister, the proper thing to do is to bring the question to the attention of the
elders and request further clarification.
Secondly if you do feel confident in responding to a doctrinal question you are responsible to
reply in accordance with the following guidelines. Your response should align with the LifeSpring
Policy of “in essentials unity, in opinions liberty, and in all things love.” If the doctrine in question
is not one of the LifeSpring 5 essential core beliefs, then it should not be put forward as an
official stance of the church. Likewise, if it is not one of the 5, it should be made clear that liberty
will be granted to those who hold a difference of opinion. Any disagreement or question that is
raised, in or out of the 5, will be handled with love. And finally, any response given by a
LifeGroup Leader in reply to a doctrinal question is expected to be utterly subject to the Bible. In
accordance with our second core belief, the Bible is to be the final authority on all issues of
doctrine.
For more information on this topic please see the Appendix “Dealing with Doctrinal Issues” in
the appendix of this manual.
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How to Lead Great Discussions
Don’t be afraid of silence
Anyone who has to lead a group discussion knows the feeling of asking what they think is a
great question, only to be met with utter silence. It can be a horribly awkward and discouraging
feeling, and as a result, there can be an overwhelming temptation to fill that silence.
Giving in to this temptation is usually a bad idea, as silence is not always a sign of
misunderstanding or a bad question. People require time to think about your question and
formulate a response. In fact, research has shown that 30 seconds is needed before the
percentage of people fully prepared to respond to a conversational question reaches 95%. 30
seconds of silence is not always the best approach but giving at least 10 seconds usually is.
The trick here is to realize that 10 seconds will likely feel like 10 minutes to the person that
asked the question.
If you feel like silence is starting it can be a good idea to count to 10 silently in your head so that
people have enough time to respond. While you are doing this do your best to look comfortable
even if you don’t feel it. An additional technique you might employ is restating the question or
asking “any thoughts on that” after the 10 seconds has elapsed. Giving people time and space
to formulate an answer they are comfortable with is a key skill for someone leading a good
group discussion.
Don’t answer first
It is hard to get people to open up and share when the leader is doing most of the talking.
Unless it is a specifically sensitive question that you feel you need to model transparency with, it
is a good idea to never be the first to answer. Your answer might shape the answers of the
others, as they might think that what you shared is the “right” answer or the type of answer that
you want to hear.
Involving all participants
This is part of fostering an open process but is important enough to deserve its own mention. To
involve those who are less assertive or shy, or who simply can’t speak up quickly enough, you
might ask directly for their opinion, encourage them with body language (smile when they say
anything, lean and look toward them often), and be aware of when they want to speak and can’t break in. It’s important both for process and for the exchange of ideas that everyone has plenty
of opportunities to communicate their thoughts, but this doesn’t mean it is good to force them. If
you have someone in the group who doesn’t want to speak make sure that is acceptable.
Summarizing or clarifying important points or ideas
This task entails making sure that everyone understands a point that was just made or the two
sides of an argument. It can include restating a conclusion the group has reached or clarifying a
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particular idea or point made by an individual (“What I think I heard you say was…”). The point
is to make sure that everyone understands what the individual or group actually meant.
Ask open-ended questions
In advancing the discussion, use questions that can’t be answered with a simple yes or
no. Instead, questions should require some thought from group members, and should
ask for answers that include reasons or analysis. The difference between “Do you think
King David’s decision was right?” and “Why do you think King David’s decision was or
wasn’t right?” is huge. Where the first question can be answered with a yes or no, the
second requires an analysis supporting the speaker’s opinion, as well as discussion of
the context and reasons for the decision.
Control your own biases
While you should point out factual errors or ideas that are inaccurate and disrespectful
of others, an open process demands that you do not impose your views on the group
and that you keep others from doing the same. Group members should be asked to
make rational decisions about the positions or views they want to agree with, and
ultimately the ideas that the group agrees on should be those that make the most sense
to them – whether they coincide with yours or not. Pointing out bias – including your
own – and discussing it helps both you and group members try to be objective.
Don’t try to cover all the material
As a LifeGroup Leader, your goal when facilitating group conversations is to lead a healthy and
life-giving discussion. It is not to cover all the material that was prepared or given for that
gathering. LifeGroups should not be viewed as a class with a curriculum to be covered each
week, instead, as a group of discussion starters to be tackled as a group. Some of the best
gatherings and discussions are the ones that only get through one or two questions because the
topic is so relevant to the group members that great discussion takes place and time does not
allow for the other questions.
Own the material
As the LifeGroup Leader remember that you know your group better than anyone else. If you
know a question won’t hit with your group, don’t ask it. If you feel a question could be reworded,
reword it. Make the material your own. You are the leader, we trust you to lead your group’s
discussions.
Know your group members
Just as you know your group better than others do, you are also aware your group members
have different personalities. Pay attention to the personality differences in your group as you
lead discussions. It is important to navigate a discussion in light of the needs of the different
personalities at the gathering. Some people need to be encouraged to talk more, others less,
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and some need to hear certain words and phrases used. Think about who is present when you
lead and make a habit of evaluating what worked with each after each gathering. (For
personalities that prove difficult, please see the How to Handle Challenging Personalities
section of this manual).
The 5 Mistakes of a New Leader:
1. Not being yourself: without authenticity, people won’t trust.
2. Carrying too much: good delegation is a win.
3. The need to finish a bad curriculum: this isn’t school and you won’t get a bad grade
for skipping questions.
4. Losing the creative edge: stay fresh, mix it up!
5. Being inflexible: take time for your people to be people, and love each other.
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How to Handle Challenging Personalities
LifeGroups are small communities built on relationships, and relationships are all about people
and the personalities they bring with them. Whenever we deal with people there is one universal
truth that will always be there, people are messy! As a leader, it is important to be prepared for
the mess that is bound to come into any LifeGroup living out their mission. It will be far easier for
you if you see the mess and difficult personalities as an opportunity to minister and not a reason
to become frustrated and discouraged.
Below are some common difficult personalities you may run into and some tips on how to
effectively minister to those people and the others in your LifeGroup.
The Over-Talker
The person who always has tons they want to say and insists on being the first to say it.
Tips
- Take a moment to remind everyone in the group that the goal is to have equal
conversation and input from everyone there and ask for everyone's help in striving to
make this a reality. Don’t direct this to the Over-Talker, try not to give any indication that
there is a singular person who has motivated this remark.
- If the first tip does not create the needed change, find an opportunity to talk to the
person outside of the group. Always start by affirming their contributions and thanking
them for what they are adding to the group. (remember just because a person is sharing
too often doesn’t mean what they are sharing is without value). Try following the
affirmation, by asking the person for their help in encouraging other members of the
group to share more. If you feel an added tactic could be helpful, you can ask them to try
and never be the first to share, only answer if you call on them, or use some sort of a
signal, to help in accomplishing this goal.
The Non-Talker
The person who never seems to want to share or is too scared to do so.
Tips
- Every time they share, make a point to affirm them. Let them know their input is
appreciated and valued. (This is a good habit to have with people in general but is
doubly important to always be used with the Non-Talker, just try not to make it too forced
or obvious).
- Make a point of calling on them from time to time (only do this if you have determined
that this does not scare them off, but rather they are someone who simply is in need of a
little prompting).
- Talk to them outside the LifeGroup, always start by thanking them and affirming what
they do contribute to the conversation. Express your desire for more people to learn from
the perspective they bring to the table. Let them know you need there help in creating a
group culture with a diversity of views and contributions. Remind them that LifeGroups
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are meant to function as a family and you want to be able to support them and their
needs like a family would.
The Tangent-Starter
The person who loves to steer the conversation off into random places all the time.
Tips
- Don’t let the tangents make you upset, it will be hard to hide and make the person feel
judged. Feel free to go off on the tangents every once and a while, you don’t have to
stop everyone, but when the time comes firmly bring the group back on track.
- If you detect a tangent starting based on a response to a question that has been asked,
speak up before the tangent can go further. Recap the person’s response focusing on
the beginning of it and how it ties to the original question or topic.
- Talk to them outside the LifeGroup, always start by thanking them and affirming what
they do contribute to the conversation. Let them know that leading a group discussion
and also managing to hit important points each week can be a real challenge. Let them
know that tangents can make this job even more difficult and ask for their help in
avoiding tangents and making the conversation as productive as possible.
The Insensitive Person
The person who cuts people off, gives unsolicited advice, makes fun of others answers, and
generally creates a negative social atmosphere.
Tips
- This person can be dangerous to the health of your LifeGroup.They can erode the safe
and grace-filled culture that we try so hard as leaders to create. For this reason, please
do not delay your response to people with this personality.
- Each LifeGroup should be aware of their guidelines or group rules. When insensitive
behavior occurs, find a time before the end of the gathering to review the rules for the
group to everyone, there is no need to single out the person responsible when everyone
in the group is present. (Using the “LifeGroup Members Covenant” cards is a great way
of doing this).
- Definitely talk to them outside the LifeGroup, always start by thanking them and affirming
the positive things contribute to the conversation. Emphasize to the person just how
important protecting a safe atmosphere is to the LifeGroup. Be specific about what
behaviors of theirs are damaging the group’s safe atmosphere. This can be hard to do,
but it is imperative you are clear about what needs to change if you are not the group
may suffer and a second conversation will be all the more needed and difficult to
navigate. Finish by affirming their value to the group and that they are wanted and
needed no matter what. Encourage them to lean into not out of the group, when people
need to hear a rebuke they are more receptive when it is sandwiched between
encouragement.
- It a person’s insensitive behavior reaches an extreme level or does not stop after an
intervention has been attempted, it is imperative that you inform your coach or the
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Connections Minister of what is happening. Be honest don’t try and soften the person's
actions, seeking assistance at this stage is both biblical (see Matthew 18:15-17) and
critical to the health of your LifeGroup.
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Why and How We Develop Apprentice Leaders
Why develop an apprentice?
The list of reasons an apprentice is critical for a successful group to develop is a long one,
discipleship, leadership development, reproduction, support, back up plans, are just a few of
these reasons. It is not a stretch to go so far as to say the very mission of LifeGroups cannot be
properly accomplished without developing apprentices.
The purpose of LifeSpring LifeGroups is to “make disciples who make disciples and create
LifeGroups that create LifeGroups.” This discipleship must start with the LifeGroup leaders and
is epitomized by apprenticeship. What is more, a LifeGroup cannot successfully reproduce itself
it has not also reproduced its leadership. Remember, Reproduction is the greatest measure of
success.
What am I identifying them for?
1. To be in a discipling relationship with you.
2. To help lead the existing LifeGroup and someday lead a new LifeGroup.
3. To enter the LifeSpring leadership pipeline:
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As a level 1 leader, there are basic leadership expectations outlined in the LifeSpring
Leadership Covenant: Level 1: Ministry Apprentice, Coordinator.
Please take the time to review the Covenant located in Appendix 3 of this document or The
LifeSpring Leaders page at www.lscommunity.org/leaders.
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Step 1: Identify a Possible Apprentice
Prayer
Your first step in identifying an apprentice should be asking and listening to the Holy Spirit for
guidance. The relationship between a LifeGroup Leader and an apprentice leader is a
discipleship relationship, and therefore the Holy Spirit’s involvement is paramount to its success.
Remember that God equips the called and does not always call those who are already
equipped. If you feel that the Holy Spirit is leading you to apprentice an individual that does not
have the other attributes of a good apprentice, please talk to your Coach or the Connections
Minister.
What Should I Look for in an Apprentice?
1. Someone who is AFTeR more:
As you think about who to invest in, follow Jesus’ example in looking for workers who are
AFTeR more:
Available. Look for people who either have or will make time to be discipled. As Jesus said, "I
must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can
work" (John 9:4). If a person is unwilling or unable to alter his/her priorities or adjust his/her
schedule to spend time with you, he/she is probably not ready for discipleship.
Faithful. Paul admonished Timothy, "The things that you have heard from me among many
witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2).
Draw a bead on those who are faithful to God and faithful to the commitments they make.
Teachable. Are they eager to learn? Are they hungry to grow? This is a crucial characteristic
for a disciple. The people who seem to think they know it all or who don’t listen may need a little
more time to grow in humility.
Responsive. Jesus invited a lot of people to follow him, but not everyone responded to his
invitation. When Jesus called Peter, James, and John, they left their fishing business behind
(Luke 5:10). If you identify someone who is available, faithful, and teachable, the next question
should be “Is he or she responsive to my leadership?”
Looking for those who are AFTeR more can help you decide who to invite into a discipling
relationship, but it is not a silver bullet. Always spend time in prayer seeking God’s guidance.
He may see something in someone you don’t.
2. Meets the criteria of a LifeSpring Apprentice leader (see above)
Note: apprenticeship relationships should never be between two single individuals of the
opposite gender and are best between two single individuals of the same gender or two
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couples. If the relationship is between a couple and a single individual, the two individuals of the
same gender should have the primary relationship, and the two members of the opposite
gender should not meet alone. This ensures the leader/apprentice relationship is above
reproach and not any cause gossip or distraction for others in the group or at LifeSpring.
Step 2: Invite
Do’s and Don’ts in asking someone to be an apprentice:
1. Pray, before you ever have the conversation, for the person you are inviting into
apprenticeship to follow God’s will in their response.
2. Start by sharing how you see God working in his/her life and his/her leadership potential.
Try starting with “I see in you….” (this can be referred to as ICNU verbiage), spend time
affirming their skill and potential. People are most likely to avoid a leadership role out of
a lack of confidence and so it is critical to always start by addressing that topic with
encouragement and affirmation.
3. Invite them to “explore what it looks like to be a leader,” or “explore what role they might
have in group leadership.” 4. Do not demand an immediate answer, allow the person time to think, pray, and explore
the idea of becoming an apprentice leader.
5. Do not make the request in front of an audience, the potential apprentice should not feel
pressured or manipulated into the role.
6. Do not undersell leadership and what it takes, no one is inspired to take on a role that is
“easy” or that “anyone can do.” 7. Do not make a general ask to the group for leaders to volunteer. Often when one asks
for a leader to volunteer, one gets the exact last person that should be leading.
Step 3: Onboard
When he/she says “yes,” there are several important things to do:
1. Review and sign the Leadership Covenant expectations on the leaders’ page.
2. Contact your coach to share the great news so we can praise God together. He/she will
contact the Connections Minister to add your new apprentice to the “Leadership
Community” group and the “LifeGroup Leaders and Apprentices” group so he/she will
receive invitations, updates, and other inside-track information.
3. Add the name of the new apprentice to the “position” of “Apprentice Leader” in your HUB
LifeGroup.
4. Show your apprentice how to use the leader’s webpage, Hub tools, and RightNow Media
resources.
Step 4: Disciple Your Apprentice
Bob Buford, “my fruit grows on someone else's tree.”
Be a Coach:
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The first step in being a good discipler is building a strong relationship. Meet with your
apprentice regularly, outside of the group (before or after LifeGroup gatherings can be a good
way to accomplish this), once a month is a good place to start. During this time coach your
apprentice, we strongly recommend the use of the coaching structure that is outlined in the
following section of this manual. In addition to coaching take the time to build a friendship and
have some fun.
Movement is how mission happens:
One of the biggest traps to fall into when developing an apprentice is to get comfortable in one
place and stop moving. Without movement, the mission simply won’t happen, so take steps to
make sure you avoid this. First, set goals. Always, have at least one goal you are working
towards with your apprentice. Be specific with these goals and make sure you set a timeline for
completing them, the goals will be useless if there is no sense of urgency and they get left on a
shelf and never met. Second, teach and reproduce every role of a LifeGroup leader in your
apprentice. The long-term goal is for your apprentice to become a successful LifeGroup Leader,
so make sure they have a chance to learn and perform each role that will be required of them
when they lead their own group.
The process for reproducing a role:
The following is an excellent model for reproducing any role of a LifeGroup Leader in an
apprentice (or any situation in life where one wants to reproduce a role in someone they are
training or mentoring):
1. I DO / YOU WATCH / WE TALK
2. I DO / YOU HELP / WE TALK
3. YOU DO / I HELP / WE TALK
4. YOU DO / I WATCH / WE TALK
5. YOU DO / SOMEONE ELSE WATCHES
Celebrate and Commission Your Apprentice:
Why and how do I celebrate my apprentice?
Celebrating the wins is an important part of leadership on all levels, it inspires people to step up,
it encourages those who are being celebrated, and it shows others success is attainable.
Celebrating your apprentice will not only encourage them it will also inspire others to step up in
similar roles. As well as building a culture in your LifeGroup that expects and encourages the
reproduction of leadership.
Why and how do I Commission my apprentice?
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Commissioning your apprentice is an important step that it is all too easy to overlook.
Commissioning your apprentice is important, not only is it encouraging and biblical, but it also
creates a clear moment of change. This moment will help inspire your apprentice into their new-
found role of leader and inspire confidence in those going with the new group under that leader.
It is good to do this commissioning in the presence of the full LifeGroup. Try to include a time of
prayer in which you as God to bless the new leader and group. Make sure your statements at
this commissioning are positive, give lots of encouragement and blessing and try to use
cautionary statements only sparingly.
And please do not forget commissioning is a celebration! It can be all too easy to allow a time of
commissioning to become focused on the past and how it marks an ending. Instead, it should
be focused on the future and the fact that it is a beginning as well as an embodiment of the
success your LifeGroup has been striving for.
A Summary Road Map to Apprenticeship
1. Identify an Apprentice
2. Have and “I-C-N-U” conversation and establish the apprenticing relationship
3. Begin walking through the 5 steps for reproducing your role
4. Meet regularly throughout the process and use the 6 coaching questions to evaluate,
encourage, and grow your apprentice
5. Decide when you think your apprentice is ready, and when he or she thinks they are
ready
6. Celebrate and commission your apprentice
7. Send him or her out
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How to Coach
Why We Coach
Here at LifeSpring, our coaching network is designed to provide support and development for
our LifeGroup Leaders. No leader at any level should be an island and the coaching network is
how we make sure that does not happen to LifeGroup Leaders.
No leader wants to feel like they are alone and with nowhere to go when times get hard. At the
same time even when times are good, leaders can always help other leaders get better and
help to keep some of the bad times at bay. Seeking growth and being teachable is a crucial part
of being a LifeGroup Leader and so coaching is an important part of leading a group
The LifeSpring Coaching Network
The coaching network here at LifeSpring is designed to include every LifeGroup Leader.
Although only some leaders will be actively serving as a coach for other LifeGroup Leaders,
every leader will have a coach even those doing the coaching.
- Each coach will have no more than four LifeGroup Leaders they are actively coaching at
any given time.
- The Connections Minister will oversee the coaching network and serve as one of the
coaches.
- Each LifeGroup Leader should be actively engaged with their coach.
- LifeGroup Leaders are encouraged to follow the coaching structure with their
apprentices (apprentice leaders are to consider their LifeGroup Leader as their coach).
Expectations
Coaching is about developing relationships and taking responsibility for someone else’s next
steps in leadership. Your role is not only to help them solve problems that occur in their
LifeGroup but to help them in their total leadership development and relationship with Christ.
Some coaching relationships will be more peer to peer while others may have more of a parent
to child structure, but no matter how the relationship is structured there are a few basic
expectations.
Theses expectation are:
- Connect with the people you are coaching at least once a month, either individually or in
groups no larger than four.
- Include the following elements in your monthly connection:
- Prayer
- Taking the temperature questions (see below)
- Individual spiritual development (see below)
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- Maintain an open door for those you are coaching to contact you outside your scheduled
meeting times with problems they may experience.
- Pray regularly for those you are coaching.
- Set goals (measurable and attainable)
- Coach using the same core values as the LifeGroups
- Remember that reproduction is a success (this is just as true at the coaching level as at
the apprenticeship level).
Coaching Meetings and Tools
1. Prayer:
As leaders both you and those you are coaching must remember that your focus has to be on
God. Spending time in prayer together at every meeting is a great way to do this. Remember
that you both rely on God for your success and that he is the center and the purpose of all you
are trying to accomplish.
Try and take some additional time to pray for one another and lift up the wins and difficulties in
each other’s lives. It is always a good idea to find out how you can continue to pray for those
you are coaching when the meeting is over. As a Coach, you should be praying for those you
are coaching on a regular basis.
2. Asking Important Questions:
“Coaching” someone in ministry to develop them as a leader is not as complicated or difficult as
you might think. Asking these six questions and listening well can encourage, change
perspectives, jump-start creative problem solving, and inspire transformation.
1) “How are you?” It may sound cliché, but it’s still true: “People don’t care how much you know, until they know
how much you care.” We begin every coaching conversation by checking in to see how the
person we are coaching is really doing.
2) “What are you celebrating?” “Where are you/we winning?” Celebrate how God is at work in our life, ministry, and church.
Moving from “How are you?” to “What are you celebrating?” keeps the tone of the meeting very
relational and positive. It’s tempting to quickly focus on what’s not working or what is broken.
This question keeps the conversation focused on where the leader is feeling successful.
3) "What challenges are you facing?” You might be thinking, “Finally we get to something productive.” Yes, the previous questions
are very relational, but if it helps any, remember that when it comes to coaching, the relationship
really is the task. This question gives your leader an opportunity to talk openly about the things
that aren’t going very well in his group or team.
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4) "How will you handle those challenges?"
Once a leader has disclosed some areas where he or she may be experiencing some
challenges with his life, group, or team it is tempting to quickly move into “fix-it” mode and try to
solve the problem for him. There are times when a leader will need your insight and wisdom.
However, the best way you can serve a leader is to help them tap into the wisdom and insight
God has already given them to deal with whatever situation they are facing. It is the coach’s
role to draw those answers or solutions out of the leader.
5) "How can I help you?"
Finally, the question we’ve wanted to ask. This is an important question, but if you never get to
this question because the leader has already come up with an action plan as you walked
through the previous questions, consider yourself an extremely effective coach. There are
times when a coach needs to step in and offer whatever assistance is necessary to help a
leader in need.
6) "How can I pray for you?"
The best way to wrap up a coaching conversation is to ask the leader how you can be praying
for him and to share how he/she can pray for you. This is one way a coach can help the leader
know that this relationship is mutually beneficial. After the leader has had a chance to express
some areas where they are in need of prayer, take a few moments to pray for the leader and
reassure him that you will be praying for him regularly.
The dream of God is not for the church to be led by a one-man show, but that it would be a
great team led by great coaches. Our role is to equip and empower the people of the church to
do the work of ministry. When the game is on the line and the final point needs to be scored,
the ball will be in the hands of our leaders and those leaders need to be coached to take the
winning shot.
3. Individual Spiritual Development:
It is important to spend a portion of your time together focused on spiritual development, this
can be as informal as a particular topic you have chosen to discuss and compare thoughts on
since your last meeting. Or it can be as formal as a set Bible study or curriculum, such as those
on RightNow Media. One great low way to accomplish this goal is to coordinate reading the
same passage of scripture between meeting and then talking about what you are learning for
that scripture together. It is also good to make sure this spiritual development and growth
consider needs that can arise in a number of different areas in the life of the leader you are
coaching. Please remember to consider areas like relationships (marriage, parenting, work,
family, dating, etc.), physical health (diet, workout goals, etc.), mental (new books, new ideas),
spiritual leadership, and leadership skills.
4. Coaching Meetings are not Formal Business Meetings:
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While it is important to make sure the above elements are included in your contact with those
you are coaching on a monthly basis, it is equally important to remember this is a relationship
that should be built on love for one another. It is encouraged to spend time with those you are
coaching just hanging out and having fun. If this is not always possible try meeting in a casual
more relaxed location or invite those you are coaching and their family over for a meal.
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How to do Social Outreach
About Social Outreach
Having social time and events simply for the culture of your group is important. However, it can
also be important to be involved in social outreach events as a LifeGroup. These events are not
just for the social culture of the group but are meant to be missionally minded outreach
opportunities to welcome people and grow the kingdom.
These events can simply be parties for your LifeGroup, friends, neighbors, and family.
Gathering people together will inevitably grow your community and allow for conversations while
having a goal of inviting people to LifeSpring and your LifeGroup gatherings.
The Purpose of having social outreaches is to create a context to enter into community. When
you throw a party, it allows people that may not typically come to your gatherings to enter in an
informal way. Social events allow you to meet and interact with that neighbor, coworker, or even
family member who would not typically enter into the church.
Getting Started
When your LifeGroup is throwing a social outreach, you can contact your coach or the
Connections Minister for assistance in planning the event. Or, you can follow the following
steps:
- Plan
- Invite
- Organize the LifeGroup to support the event
- Follow up on the invites
- Arrive early
- Clean the space
- Host the event
- Mingle with new people
- Follow up with invites to the LifeGroup, other events, or LifeSpring activities
Ideas
Dinner Parties: eating a meal together is one of the best ways to build relationships and is
something that Jesus modeled in scripture. These dinner parties are meant to focus on inviting
people who are not already part of your LifeGroup or Church community.
Church Events: these are events that are preplanned by LifeSpring, and you can show up ready
to help and serve as a group. Examples include: parades, Fall Fest, kids plays, Easter, picnics,
and one service celebrations.
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Block Parties: these kinds of parties are a great way for a LifeGroup to reach out to the
neighborhood where they gather. Making a local neighborhood your mission is a great way to
live out the mission of the Church as a LifeGroup. These Parties could be designed for a few
houses around your group or an entire neighborhood, they can be pulled off solo or tap into
other LifeGroups or a neighborhood association.
Guys Night/Girls Night: Pinterest parties, poker nights, NCAA tournament parties, movie nights,
ect. These types of events require minimal planning but are a great way to include people who
would not usually come to church in an environment that is comfortable for them. (You can also
use special events put on by Ministry 2 Women or Ministry 4 Men in the same way).
Fantasy Sports: such as fantasy football, are a great way to combine a long-term commitment
with events like a draft party or championship trophy ceremony. Yahoo, ESPN, and other
websites have free seasons you can sign up for.
Other Event Ideas: BBQs, Board Game Nights, Beach Days, Holiday Parties, and Local City
Events.
Reproduce
When you have an event, you want to make sure to have someone to help you plan it. This
person should work alongside you to learn the process so when it is time for the next event they
will be capable of planning and executing it. This person could be your LifeGroups Apprentice
Leader(s), but by no means has to be. The more people that know how to plan and execute
events, the more people the LifeGroup will be able to reach.
What is a Win?
Every time we do something, we want to make sure we do our best to improve it. After each
outreach event, you should evaluate how it went if you can include your Apprentice Leader(s)
and any LifeGroup members that helped to lead the event, that is best. We suggest you use the
following review template:
- Celebrate the Wins
- Ask and Identify, What Went Well?
- Ask and Identify, What Went Poorly?
- Ask and Identify, What to do Differently Next Time?
Remember, when it comes to a social outreach a win is when a LifeGroup gets behind an event
to make it a success, when people come to the event, and when follow up with those people is
made with the intent of bringing them deeper into community, when an event accomplishes this
you know you have something that can be reproduced confidently.
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How to do Service Outreach
About Service Outreach
LifeSpring is a Church on mission, and we live out that mission of “joining God in restoring a
broken world” in a variety of ways. It is important to remember that LifeGroups are meant to be
the Church on the cellular level, and like the larger church, LifeGroups are meant to live on
mission. Service outreach is perhaps the best way for a LifeGroup to live out and create that
culture of mission focus.
The Bible clearly represents how much Jesus cares about serving others. It is the Church’s job
to care for those in need. By doing service outreach, a LifeGroup can experience the purpose
that Christ gave to us in helping others, and at the same time grow as individuals and a family,
while lifting up the name of Jesus in our community.
Getting Started
Start by casting a vision to your LifeGroup that conveys the power and importance of being
missional. Open discussion with your group about what kind of service you might want to do. Be
prepared with some suggestions in case your group members don’t engage with the topic right
away. If you feel the Lord is leading you to a particular project don’t be afraid to sell it and cast
the vision, but don’t try and force or command it either. Also, remember you can always
approach your coach or the Connections Minister for assistance with this process.
Ideas
A seen need in the neighborhood: it is important for a LifeGroup to connect to the community
around them and one of the best ways is to identify a need in your area that your group can
meet. For example, the elderly women down the street from where your LifeGroup meets that
has a fence that needs repairing or the single mom next door whose car needs to be fixed.
Adopt a LifeSpring service area: some LifeGroups may have a number of people that are all
passionate about serving in a particular area at LifeSpring or with one of our local impact
partners. Adopting a serving focus such as First Impressions or the Food Pantry is a great way
to give your LifeGroup a greater sense of missional identity.
Help our schools: helping out with our local schools is a great way for a LifeGroup to connect
with the local community. Consider tutoring, coaching athletics, or volunteering school
sponsored mentoring programs. (Note: WhizKids tutoring and This City His City, are great
places to check if your LifeGroup is interested in this).
House to house service: helping people out, door to door, with no charge is a great way to make
a positive impact on your local neighborhood. Try raking leaves in the fall or shoveling snow in
the winter.
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City serving opportunities: Harrison already has a number of great ways to serve in things like
community days and serving as a LifeGroup in these worthwhile events sends a great message
to the rest of the community.
Support or awareness project: when a LifeGroup has a passion for a ministry they are not able
to serve indirectly, and they want to do more than just write a check, it is a good idea to put on
an awareness or support project. Try a neighborhood garage sale, bake sale, or car wash.
(Please note: if this is a fundraiser of any kind, it cannot use any LifeSpring publicity or be
identified as a LifeSpring event without full approval and alignment with the LifeSpring
Fundraising policy, it should instead be identified as an independent and private initiative of you
individual LifeGroup). Please notify the Connections Minister before advertising or hosting any
events.
A big ask: if your LifeGroup is looking to go all in on a project that will truly change people’s lives
consider having one or several of your LifeGroup members look into foster care or adoption,
while the rest of the group rallies behind them in support. This is one of the most powerful and
biblical things a LifeGroup can participate in.
Check with the Pastors: As Church leaders, the LifeSpring Pastors often hear of community
needs they don’t have the ability to meet. You can always check with the Connections Minister
or other Pastors for service opportunities.
What is a Win?
Every time we do something, we want to make sure we do our best to improve it. After each
outreach event, you should evaluate how it went if you can include your Apprentice Leader(s)
and any LifeGroup members that helped to lead the event, that is best. We suggest you use the
following review template:
- Celebrate the Wins
- Ask and Identify, What Went Well?
- Ask and Identify, What Went Poorly?
- Ask and Identify, What to do Differently Next Time?
Remember, when it comes to a service outreach a win is when your LifeGroup comes together
and cares for others physical, mental, and most of all spiritual needs. LifeGroups that serve with
the same people or organizations on a regular basis cultivate healthy relationships and are able
to have more long-term impact.
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Appendix
Appendix 1: Support and Resources
The Big 3
- Prayer and the Bible: as a LifeGroup Leader the Bible should always remain the
highest authority in your conduct and leadership approach. Both Prayer and scripture
should be your first and most used resource in leading and developing your LifeGroup.
- Your Coach: as leaders, it is all too easy to try and fix problems on our own. Your
Coach (or LifeGroup Leader if you are and Apprentice) should be an intricate part of
your leadership process and you should look to them for support on a regular basis.
- This Manual: is meant to function as a comprehensive, one-stop job aid for all
LifeGroup Leaders. LifeGroup Leaders should keep a copy of this manual on hand to be
used whenever needed. LifeGroup Leaders should also periodically review the table of
contents in this manual and refresh or dig into any areas they feel they might benefit
from seeking improvement in.
Other Support and Resources
- RightNow Media: is always a great resource to check out as a LifeGroup Leader. RNM
is jam-packed with great studies and other materials and is free to use as a member of
LifeSpring. If you do not have a RNM login please contact the Connections Minister to
receive access. If you want to check out a RNM study and you are not sure where to
start to check out the LifeGroup Suggested Studies channel on the LifeSpring RNM
page.
- www.lscommunity.org/leaders: the LifeSpring Leaders page is full of resources from
the church. Please take a moment to look it over. In particularly you will want to look
under the LifeGroup Leader Resource tab, which contains numerous resources for
LifeGroup gatherings. (Note: you cannot reach the leader’s page from lscommunity.org,
so you will need to type in the full URL).
- The LifeSpring App: is great for use before and during your group’s gatherings. The
app is particularly useful for accessing message content such as Digging Deeper
questions.
- The LEAD App: every LifeGroup Leaders with a smartphone should download the
LEAD app. It is not only the best way to take your group’s attendance, but it is also a
great resource for accessing the HUB and retrieving contact info.
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- LifeGroup Leaders and Apprentices Group on the HUB: this will be the primary way
LifeGroup Leaders and Apprentices will receive updates from the Connections Minister
and other ministry staff. The group’s “files” tab also contains additional resources for
leaders, many of which are also available on the LifeSpring Leaders page.
- The Commission: A Disciple-Making Manual: this is a resource designed and created
here at LifeSpring and it is a great way to walk through the discipleship process with
someone in a one-on-one setting. For a copy of the manual please contact the
Connections Minister or other LifeSpring ministry staff.
- Personal Study: don’t forget that there are great resources available outside those
specifically listed here. LifeGroup Leaders are highly encouraged to check out outside
resources from books to podcasts or other materials, just please use discretion in vetting
which resources are trustworthy and appropriate.
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Appendix 2: The LifeSpring Path
The LifeSpring Path is an all-encompassing overview for everyone who comes into LifeSpring, allowing them to connect and grow in spiritual maturity and discipling. Simply put the LifeSpring Path is “how we join God in restoring a broken world”. There are several goals of the Path. First to increase accessibility and visibility of the mission, programs, resources, opportunities, and love here at LifeSpring. Second, to provide maximum support and resources to the existing and future programs, opportunities and people at LifeSpring. Third, to unify terminology and verbiage to reduce confusion and maximize effective communication inside the church. Fourth, to help protect against unnecessary offense or alienation of people entering the church. And fifth, to increase a sense of unity and identity across the whole of the body. In short, the Path aims to create an easy to understand structure, that gives all the different elements of the LifeSpring ministry a home and support system that will maximize their potential for growth. At the same time, it aims to do the same for the people of LifeSpring, by giving them a universal, yet customizable, process for connecting, growing and producing fruit within LifeSpring. The Path is divided into 3 primary parts or steps, which are: LEARN, GROW, GO. LEARN is described as a “1-time, 3-step process connecting you to LifeSpring”. LEARN is not about learning about God as that is part of growth, LEARN is about learning about LifeSpring. Every person new to LifeSpring, regardless of their background or spiritual maturity, can take these 3 steps to connect and learn about the church. GROW is the “5 ways we all grow in Christ”. GROW is not a step to be completed and moved on from, but rather a continual part of the personal development of each person attending LifeSpring. Every attendee of LifeSpring should seek to grow in each of the 5 philosophical categories contained within GROW, which are “Connecting, Knowing, Serving, Committing, and Giving”. GO is the “4 ongoing steps to disciple-making”. GO is the goal, target, and fruit that comes out of the successful use of the GROW step. GO is intended to reflect the mission of LifeSpring and provide direction and purpose to the Path. It focuses on becoming a disciple that makes disciples, using the same material as our disciple-making manual.
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Appendix 3: The LifeSpring Leadership Covenant
Leadership Covenant LifeSpring Community
This covenant establishes a standard of life and ministry for each stage of leadership development at LifeSpring Community Christian Church. We believe these commitments will strengthen the church, multiply disciples for the expansion of God’s Kingdom, and ultimately glorify God in all things. The beliefs, values, and behaviors have a biblical basis, but we have intentionally avoided specificity with respect to individual application of the biblical principles to avoid legalism. Since grace and truth are both core values at LifeSpring, we hold up these expectations with the understanding that no one is perfect in every way except Christ our Savior. If we fall short in any area, we confess, repent, claim forgiveness, and recommit to honor God. If we are consistently falling short, we initiate discussion about it with our leaders to determine what should be done. Please initial each item for your respective leadership level and sign/date at the bottom. If you have any questions or hesitation, please discuss with your supervising leader at any point prior to signing. Thank you for your love and commitment. To God be the glory! Level 1: Ministry Apprentice, Coordinator ___ I fully support LifeSpring’s vision/mission (“joining God in restoring a broken world”) and strategy (“make disciples who make disciples”). ___ I am aligned with LifeSpring’s core values:
● Grace: we need it, we give it ● Truth: God’s Word is the foundation ● Growth: God has so much more for us ● Family: “we” is always better than “me” ● Love: love God, love people
___ I am in full agreement with LifeSpring’s basic beliefs:
● There is one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit ● The Bible is the Word of God ● Sin is the human problem ● Jesus is our only hope ● We must choose Him
___ I participate in weekly corporate worship. (Acts 20:7)
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___ I am connected in some form of relationship-based spiritual community (fellowship). (Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:24-25) ___ I seek to serve with my strengths. (Romans 12:4-8; I Peter 4:10-11) ___ I strive to live according to biblical values and standards. (Ephesians 4) Name ____________________________________________________ Date _______________
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Level 2: Leaders of Groups/Teams In addition to the expectations above… ___ I love God and people, caring about them and their relationship with God. (Matthew 5:21-24; 22:36-40; James 2:15-16; I John 2:9-11; 3:15) ___ I am actively following Jesus and being changed by Him. (Matthew 4:19; II Corinthians 3:18) ___ I am growing spiritually through the regular practice of Bible reading and prayer. (Bible Reading: Joshua 1:8; Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:4. Prayer: Matthew 6:5-9; Luke 18:1; Ephesians 6:18; I Thessalonians 5:17) ___ I meet regularly in a small group context for spiritual growth. (Acts 2:46-47; Hebrews 10:24-25) ___ I pray for, serve, and seek to make disciples with the group or team I lead. (Matthew 9:35-38; II Timothy 2:2) ___ I invest financial resources through LifeSpring to expand God’s Kingdom. (I Corinthians 9:3-11; II Corinthians 8:1-7; I Timothy 5:17-18) ___ I regularly pray for and support LifeSpring leadership. (Ephesians 6:19; Colossians 4:2-4; I Thessalonians 5:25; Hebrews 13:18-19) ___ I pursue biblical truth in a spirit of love, seeking to unite on the essentials and to grant grace in the differences. (Acts 2:42; I Corinthians 8:1-3; 9:19-23; Ephesians 4:15) ___ I practice and promote the Matthew 18 conflict resolution process to build relationships and protect unity. (Matthew 18:15-17; Titus 3:10) ___ I strive for godly attitudes and behaviors in every area of my life (both inside and outside the church context). (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 4:5-6; I Thessalonians 4:9-12; II Peter 3:11-12) ___ I promote LifeSpring’s vision and values, encouraging others to commit and participate with me. ___ If I am a staff member, I have read and agree to abide by the Employee Handbook. Name ____________________________________________________ Date _______________
Appendix 4: Accountability Questions
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Character:
· What are you anxious about this month, this last week?
· How much are your concerns stressing you out? How is that showing up? Anger,
withdrawal, harsh words, criticalness or any moments of depression that you can’t dig out of?
· Is anyone being hurt by the stress level in your life? How can you apologize this week to
those you’ve hurt?
· What are you hearing from God about these concerns?
· Have you been regularly finding a place of silence to hear from God? What do you think
He is saying to you about your marriage, your heart, the balance of leading people vs. leading
your family?
· How are you dealing with battles of your mind? Purity? Pornography? Do you need some
help with this?
· Have you felt any undue pressure to lie, or try to prove your worth to anyone this last
month?
· Have you been speaking well and praying for other pastors in your city?
· What have you been reading for your own encouragement?
· Do you feel like God loves you this month? Do you feel like He wants to give favor to you
or do you feel like he wants to discipline you? Why?
Calling:
· Are you taking care of the one body God has given you? What are you doing to stay
healthy? If not, what are your plans to get going?
· Is your spouse feeling “close” to you in your calling right now? How can you include them
more in what you are doing? Do they want to be included more or protected more from your
ministry calling?
· Are you helping them find and pursue their passions while you pursue your own?
· How often are you having time together without any ministry talk? What fun things have
you done together this last month.
· What types of conversations and experiences have you had this month with your children?
What have you planned for this coming month?
· Are there any aspects of your life that you feel must change in order for God to keep
growing your influence or leadership?
· What are you most excited about? What is giving you life and joy right now?
· Who are you hanging out with that inspires you toward better living?
· Describe what your “Sabbath” is right now? Is that working? If not, do you see any way to
make the happen?
Culture:
· Do you know the names of all your neighbors? If not, what can you do this month to get to
know them without being a dork?
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· Are you doing any recreation, hobbies, or school functions with the intent to make friends?
· Tell me about some good conversations you’ve had with lost friends this month? Have you
made any plans to invite them deeper into your lives or go deeper into their lives?
· How could you bless the children of the people you’re meeting?
· Have any of your friends invited you to anything this last month? Did you go? How did it
go?
· Have you done anything this last month that you may need to apologize for to a friend?
· What are you finding is always good news to your friends? Have you made any plans to be
good news? What is that?
· Have you taken much time this month to exegete the needs of your community? Have you
talked to any school employees, city workers, or government officials? How can you make that
happen or begin to help where they expose need?
· How many parties have you thrown or gone to this last month?
· Are you showing patience with the people around you or have you overstepped any lines
the culture is giving you lately?
· Have you helped serve anyone this month?
· Have you invited any new friends to anything this last month? What was it? How did that
go? Any next steps?
· How many of your 21 weekly meals have you been sharing with people?
· What common space, coffee shops, pubs, etc. have you been hanging out in consistently?
Have any interesting relationships started to form?
Leading Community:
· What are you doing to help nurture the lives of the Christians who are with you now?
· Are there any people in your community right now that seem to be struggling or fighting
against what you feel God has led your community to do or be? What do you think God is
asking you to do to address the problems?
· Are any non-believers moving toward your community or in their faith with God? How do
you envision integrating them into your “Christian space and rhythms?” · Are the experiences that your Christian community participates in causing them to be less
or more consumeristic? Less or more selfish and self-oriented? Less or more individualistic?
· Has anything come up this month that is a concern for you regarding the growth or
missionality of your Christian friends? What are your plans to help them grow through this?
· Is the DNA of your community clear? How do you know?
· Describe how the spiritual activities your people have done this last month have displayed
the DNA?
· How are you leading your people beyond just head knowledge or doctrine and into action.
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Appendix 5: Assessing Your Needs, Questionnaire
Red, Yellow, Green:
Assessing Your Own Needs
As a spiritual parent, it’s easy to burn out because you’re often taking care of others.
Therefore, it’s critical to know how to assess and address your own needs so you are
filled up and have something to give. One way to do this is to think of a stoplight with
red, yellow, and green colors:
[graphic here]
Red - These are things that really drain you. Often, they are things you still have to do,
but they make you worn out or exhausted.
Yellow - These are things that you still need to do but they don’t necessarily drain you
nor do they fill you up.
Green - These are things that fill you up and allow you to re-energize.
Where would you place the following:
· going to work
· spending time with family
· spending time with friends
· spending time with needy people
· financial planning
· doing bills
· yard work
· “to do” lists
· exercising
· cooking
· cleaning
· watching or playing sports
· watching TV/movies
· reading
· being outdoors
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Appendix 6: Bible Storying
Bible Storying:
How to Teach Like Jesus
Why do you think Jesus told stories so often as He made disciples?
__ He was talking to children and the uneducated
__ Most of the people of his day were illiterate
__ To change people’s worldview
__ So people would remember and retell them
__ To keep those who refused to believe from understanding
__ Because God wired us to love stories
Did you put a checkmark next to all but the first one?
Nearly all of the people of Jesus’ day were illiterate, so he had to use oral teaching. Today, our
culture is much more literate, but many people today still don’t like to learn by reading. Stories
are impactful to the highly educated as well as children, conveying a message that everyone
can remember and retell. They make the point while at the same time hide it from those who
are hard-hearted (Matthew 13:11-13). Stories help us learn and view the world differently.
That’s why much of the Bible is in story form.
Bible storying means orally telling the stories of the Bible. It is a unique approach to
communicating God’s truth that is rooted in the ancient Hebrew way of learning through careful
observation and dialogue. This approach to teaching can be done individually or in groups.
When done in groups, Bible storying encourages participation, engaging more people in
discussing the Bible and its application. It also allows more people to be equipped and placed
in leadership roles, as the role of the leader is to be a facilitator for the Holy Spirit, who is the
teacher.
HOW TO USE STORYING IN BIBLE STUDY GROUPS
1. Tell the story.
Either tell the story yourself or ask for someone else to do it. The point is not for the storyteller to
get it perfect. Encourage members of the group to use their imaginations to picture the story in
their minds like a movie, where they are actually in the scene.
2. Read the story.
Read the story together from the Bible. After or as you’re reading, make note of what was left
out or different in the first telling.
3. Retell the story.
As a group, retell the story from beginning to end. Try to catch the details from the biblical story.
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4. Ask open-ended questions.
The point is to get group members to examine their lives in light of the story, to hear from God
and then decide what they will do in light of that. The following seven questions can help
facilitate this:
1. What did you like about this story, or who did you relate to in this story?
2. What bothered you or what didn't you understand?
3. What did you learn about God?
4. What did you learn about people?
5. What do you need to do/obey?
6. What do you need to know/remember?
7. Who needs to hear this story?
As a leader, remember to . . .
…have Faith that God, through the Holy Spirit, will speak and bring to light the truth and
implications God desires to reveal.
...create a safe environment where everyone can question and contribute.
…let go of the role of expert teacher and embrace the role of co‐ learner, encourager, and
guide.
…be patient, allowing time for the process, different opinions, tangents, tensions, and
wonderings.
Good Bible stories for the unborn:
Matthew (= Levi) (Matthew 9:9-13; Luke 5:27-32)
Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:7-42)
Zaccheus (Luke 19:1-10)
Lost sheep (Luke 15:4-7)
Prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32)
Thief on the cross (Luke 23:33-43)
Pentecost (Acts 2:1-41)
Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40)
Paul (Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-9; 22:3-16; 26:9-18)
Cornelius (Acts 10:1-48)
Philippian jailer (Acts 16:11-34)
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Appendix 7: Dealing with Doctrinal Issues
LifeSprings Doctrine
LifeSpring descended from a nineteenth century movement called the Restoration Movement. It
came about in a time when denominations in America were even more divisive than today. The
Restoration Movement called on Christians to unite on the basis of Scripture for the sake of
reaching a lost world. The ideals of Christian unity were expressed in some simple sayings,
such as:
“In essentials, unity; in opinions, liberty; in all things, love.”
“In essentials, unity…”
LifeSpring has five basic beliefs that unify us. These simple truths have been at the core of
Christianity down through the centuries:
1. There is one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
We believe in God as a “Trinity” (one God in three eternal persons: Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit). This may be the single strongest identifying belief of biblical faith. Included in belief
in the Trinity is the deity of Christ (Jesus was God in the flesh, born of a virgin, dying as the
sacrifice for our sins, and raised from the dead) and the person and work of the Holy Spirit.
2. The Bible is the Word of God
We believe in the inspiration and authority of the Bible. It tells us about God, how to have a
relationship with Him, and how to live for Him. Without a belief in the inspiration of
Scripture, we would have no basis for knowing what to believe, no sure way to know the
true nature of God, no dependable guide for our lives, and no basis for unity.
3. Sin is the human problem
We believe sin (= self-centeredness and the rebellion that comes out of that) is the
universal human problem. Through the centuries, people have intuitively known something
is not right in the world. Wars, broken relationships, and suffering have been the story of
humanity. In biblical faith, sin is at the root. While lack of education, poverty, oppressive
governments, etc. must be addressed, underneath every major problem is the damage
rebellion has done to the human race.
4. Jesus is our only hope
We believe the needs of the human race are far beyond our ability to resolve by ourselves.
Jesus is the one hope we have for life. The Bible speaks of no other way to save us
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except through Jesus Christ, who is the pathway to God. He lived the perfect life we can’t live, died the death we deserve as our substitute, and rose from dead.
5. We must choose Him
We believe God saves us by grace through faith, but this free gift is not automatically
applied to everyone. We must respond to it through repentance, faith, confession, and
baptism. With respect to baptism, we practice baptism by immersion to all who make a
decision to trust in Jesus as Savior and follow Him as Lord. Jesus set this example, and
the New Testament demonstrates this step as part of the conversion process. It is an
outward symbol of the inner transformation by God. It is meant to be the beginning of a
new life of following Jesus, being changed by Him, and leading others to do the same.
“…in opinions, liberty…”
Beyond the five basic beliefs, there is variation in doctrinal understanding at LifeSpring among
Christians who take the Bible seriously. Because of that, we ask all believers to unite on the
essentials and grant grace in the differences.
In practice, this means that there is no official church interpretation of creation, end times,
predestination, spiritual gifts, and numerous other issues. On many topics, a particular
understanding of Scripture may be common in the church, but other perspectives are not
excluded. Individuals within our leadership and church may have convictions about a theological
topic, but it is a secondary issue, and freedom is given to believe differently as long as the
beliefs remain within the spectrum of biblical Christianity.1
“…in all things, love.”
We believe the study of the Bible and the pursuit of truth are extremely important, but the
distinguishing mark of Jesus’ followers is that they love one another. It is human nature to want
to be right, and that is nowhere truer than in religious beliefs. Wars have been fought over
religion. But living the truth of Scripture produces an attitude of love, grace and kindness toward
those with differing conclusions. In the end, we don’t want to be so “right” that we’re wrong.
The apostle Paul wrote to the church in Rome at a time when it experienced tensions over
numerous issues, including divergent beliefs. Near the conclusion of his letter in Romans
chapters 14 and 15 he encouraged the believers there to seriously consider the issues and be
fully convinced of their own conclusions. But then he reminded them that other Christians would
disagree, and in spite of that, God accepted them anyway. He reminded them to remain united,
to not criticize, and to fully accept them regardless of the differences.
1
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He concluded,
“May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other,
as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Then all of you can join together with one voice,
giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 15:5-6
Genuine Christians pursue truth in a spirit of love. Only with the guidance of God’s Spirit is it
possible to hold both truth and love simultaneously.
To summarize, LifeSpring Community Christian Church makes no official doctrinal statements
beyond five basic beliefs:
1. There is one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
2. The Bible is the Word of God
3. Sin is the human problem
4. Jesus is our only hope
5. We must choose Him
We will study the Scripture together diligently in a spirit of love and grace. Together, as we seek
His will, we trust God will guide us to a more accurate understanding of His Word, and will make
His church stronger, healthier, and more mature.
Dealing with Dicey Doctrinal Debates 1. Realize your predisposition
Two extremes
Avoids theological discussion at all cost……………………………....Lives for a good theological fistfight Focuses on what other people think of him/her………….……….Focuses on winning the debate God wants you to have an emphasis on both love and truth. God can use you to bring balance to an imbalanced environment.
The “Fighter”—
A closed-minded, overly-argumentative type
(strong views on everything)
The “Lover”—
An open-minded, overly-agreeable type
(no strong view on
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2. Try to distinguish how important the topic is ● Absolute, non-negotiables (defend these) ● Important, key beliefs (discuss these) ● Interesting but irrelevant doctrines (don’t spend much time on these) “I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naïve people” (Romans 16:17-18). Beware an “unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions and constant friction…” (1 Timothy 6:4-5) “Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge” (1 Timothy 6:20-21). “But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless” (Titus 3:9) 3. Check your attitudes and motives Are you humble when you discuss the issue, realizing you don’t know it all? To what extent are you teachable? (acknowledge what areas you have really studied, try to stay open) Are you trying to prove you’re right . . . or love people and promote God’s work? (1 Timothy 1:3-6 “As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God’s work—which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have wandered away from these and turned to meaningless talk…”). 4. Eagerly study THE BIBLE Don’t just go off what someone else says (Acts 17:11 “Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”). Emphasize study of the Bible not a particular Bible teacher (1 Corinthians 3:1ff jealousy and quarreling, one follows Paul another Apollos). Pay attention to the literary, grammatical, historical, and cultural context. Beware filtering everything through predetermined conclusions (ex. supernatural minimized). Remember that the Bible is meant for life change (2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”)
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This is going to take some effort on your part (2 Timothy 2:15 “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”) 5. Talk with others about theological issues in an appropriate manner Talk don’t argue. When speaking with others, be kind (even if the other person isn’t), forgiving (even if they say hurtful things), and gentle (2 Timothy 2:22-26 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.”) Note: being “gentle” and loving doesn’t mean being a wimp (1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.”) And DON’T forget what really matters!!! (Romans 15:14-16 “I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another. I have written you quite boldly on some points, as if to remind you of them again, because of the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles with the priestly duty of proclaiming the gospel of God, so that the Gentiles might become an offering acceptable to God, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.”) 6. Prioritize unity with other believers and God’s glory Romans 15:5-6 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. John 17:20-23 My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one; I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
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Appendix 8: Suggested Reading List
- The Cost of Discipleship - Dietrich Bonhoeffer
- Bonhoeffer was a well-known pastor and theologian that was so passionate
about discipling others he was eventually executed by Hitler because he wouldn’t stay quiet about Jesus during WWII. This a deep and challenging book that is
great material for any LifeGroup Leader. You may want to look for a supporting
study if you are going to try to use it with the whole LifeGroup.
- Knowing the Bible 101 - Bruce Brickel & Stan Jantz
- Whether for a leader, a group, or just someone in your life this provides a great,
user-friendly overview of the origin, themes, and context of the Bible.
- Crazy Love - Francis Chan
- This is a powerful book to go through as a group. It is a wonderfully compelling
way to dig into the relentless love of God, and a reminder that the gospel
message is one of awe-inspiring relationship.
- How Good is Good Enough - Andy Stanley
- A very short read, this book is perfect for a person who is struggling with the idea
of grace and may be seeking to earn salvation. It is also great to go through as a
group if there are a number of members interested in the topic.
- The Case for Christ - Lee Strobel
- This is a great book for any person or group that wants a good introduction to
apologetics (the science of defending the Bible).
- Scripture and the Authority of God - N.T. Wright
- This is a meaty one. Wright is one of the most brilliant living theologians, and this
work is great for LifeGroup leaders who are looking to improve and understand
how to use scripture and God’s authority as the foundation for how they lead and
what they teach.
- Hero Maker - Dave Ferguson
- The subtitle of this book is “five essential practices for leaders to multiply
leaders.” If you want to improve as a coach or in the building up and sending out
of apprentices this is a great place to start.
- Next Generation Leader - Andy Stanley
- This is possibly the best book on practical leadership for Christians that is both
inspiring and easy for most people to read and digest. It is great for any and all
LifeGroup Leaders and even for a group that may have a number of aspiring
leaders in it.
- Knowledge of the Holy - A.W. Tozer
- The importance of this book is perhaps captured by a quote from a different book
of Tozer’s, “what comes into our minds when we think about God is the most
important thing about us.” - Morning and Evening - Charles Spurgeon
- Spurgeon is one of the great protestant theologians, and Morning and Evening is
his devotional. It contains a short morning and evening reflection on a section of
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scripture for all 365 days in the year. (Note: Spurgeon wrote in the 1800s and
can use some out of date language, however, there is a great modern translation
available).
- Fresh Wind Fresh Fire - Jim Cymbala
- A Very inspiring read, with plenty of personal stories from Pastor Cymbala’s life,
this book is a great look at the power prayer has in ministry.
- The Meaning of Marriage - Tim Keller
- There are lots of great practical marriage books out there, but Keller’s book is a
bit different. It is a fantastic look at the concept of marriage through a biblical
lens. It goes right to the heart of what marriage should be and is powerful for
people at any stage of their marriage.
- Too Busy Not to Pray - Bill Hybels
- Prayer is the foundation of a successful Christian leader, that is why this is one of
three books about prayer on this list. The title of this book speaks for itself, If you
are looking for an engaging, relevant look at prayer this book is it.
- Wild at Heart - John Eldredge
- This one is for the guys, a bold and courageous, masculine packed adventure
this is a great book to go through with a group of men or just your own.
- Love Does - Bob Goff
- An extremely inspiring, fun, and playful book, Love Does, is essentially a series
of stories from Goff’s personal life. He is one of the most out-of-the-box,
outlandish but powerfully effective Christian Leaders today. He is not a pastor but
a lawyer and jack-of-all-trades guy, relatable for anyone in a group.
- The Call - Oz Guinness
- A direct descendant of Sir Arthur Guinness, Oz Guinness, gives a wonderful
breakdown of how each person is called by God, how to hear that call, how it
balances with our desires and passions, and how we live out God’s calling.
- Power Through Prayer - E.M. Bounds
- Bounds is a lesser-known American writer and pastor, who ministered in the late
1800s, but he devoted his life to prayer and this book is a powerful example of
prayers importance, beauty, and value in life and leadership.
- The Jesus Storybook Bible (for kids)
- This is the preferred kids Bible used by LifeSpring children's ministry, and it is a
wonderful way to start your kids or other kids in your group on a foundation in
God’s word.
