REDEMPTION SMALL GROUPS

DISCIPLES STRIVING TOGETHER TOWARD MATURITY 

Please note: 

     - We kindly ask each individual who desires to join a Small Group to complete the form below.

     - Formal commitment to the church (membership) is required for Small Group participation.

     - We currently have Small Groups meeting in the evening on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The number of meetings per month varies from group to group.

SMALL GROUP COVENANT

Please read the following points of our Small Group Covenant along with any elaborating notes, and indicate your commitment.

Keep in mind that it is of course understandable for unforeseen exceptions to come up, but the following is intended to describe what would be the norm. Also, please know that we understand there are varying degrees of spiritual maturity among followers of Christ, and that everyone isn’t expected to look exactly the same. Nevertheless, we trust that all would be wanting to strive ahead.

I understand that our Small Group is a priority in my life. I will be there when our group meets, and if I am unable to attend or running late, I will call ahead. (Heb 10:24–25; Acts 2:42–47)

*A commitment to be present for Small Group meetings is paramount for group members. If for example, your group were to have 24 meetings in a year, it is reasonable to expect each member to be there around 18 or more times in order to remain connected with the group.

I understand the importance of leading an orderly life. I will come to my Small Group meeting prepared and therefore ready to participate. (Col 2:5)

*A commitment to embrace and join in with the vision for Small Groups as set out by the leaders of the church is necessary for the health of you and your group. This includes things like being ready for the typical components of our Small Group meetings (prayer, discussion, accountability), as well as other areas of focus (i.e. specific studies, curriculum) aimed toward your maturity as a disciple of Christ.

I understand that God has gifted me to serve others. I will come to Small Group not merely to receive but to give of myself to benefit the body. (1 Pet 4:10; Eph 4:11–12; 1 Cor 12:7)

I understand that trustworthiness and showing honour are critical. I will not engage in gossiping personal information that is revealed in my Small Group. (Pro 11:13; Rom 12:9–21)

I understand that we are all works in progress. I will not judge others with harshness nor hypocrisy. (Phil 3:12; Eph 4:2; Matt 7:1–5)

I understand the importance of mutual accountability in striving toward holiness. I will welcome insight into my own life and will give insight into others’. (Ps 141:5; Pro 27:6; 28:23; Matt 7:1–5; Rom 15:14; Gal 4:16; 6:1; Heb 3:12–13)

*A commitment to open your heart to your group is at the heart of our Small Group ministry. A reasonable expectation therefore, is that you are coming ready to share specifically about your personal walk with the Lord, and how the Lord is working in your life through the practice of personal spiritual disciplines (i.e. prayer, Bible reading, etc.) happening between group meetings.

I understand that others should have the opportunity to be blessed by a Small Group the way I am. I will be willing to welcome new members and multiply groups to further God’s work. (Phil 2:1–11)

*After meeting together for about two years, a Small Group will be looking to multiply. The reasonable hope is that by this time more leaders will have been developed who are capable of shepherding others as they have been shepherded.

I understand the power of prayer. I will pray for our church, our leaders, and the members of our Small Group. (2 Cor 1:11; Eph 6:18; Phil 1:19; 1 Thes 5:25)

*Prayer and Praise nights are not intended to be Small Group “off weeks.” They are intended to be a regular part of the Small Group ministry where all groups are meeting together in one place. It is reasonable to expect that you would be discussing with your leaders any hindrances to your participation in these nights.

I understand that seeking God is vital. I will spend regular time in God’s word. (Deut 6:4–9; Ps 42:1; Ps 63; Ps 119; 1 Pet 2:2)

I understand that the watching world needs to hear about The Lord. I will pursue opportunities to share the good news of Jesus with those who don’t know him. (Matt 28:19–20; Col 4:2–6)

SMALL GROUP COVENANT AFFIRMATION

SCHEDULING CONSIDERATIONS

(Please check as many as possible)

A copy of your responses will be sent to your email address.