Why is a Life Group Different? by PPP

 A group of psychologists put different numbers of people in a room. They put ten, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, and more into a space.  Then they counted the number of primary conversation holders.  These were the people who began conversations, and partook of conversations.  In each group of people, there were the same number of "primary conversation participants."  That magic number was eight.  No matter how many people were in the room, eight people did  most of the talking.

Think about church.  We sit in a service where somebody preaches, the regulars chime in, and the majority listen.  The same holds true in most Sunday School Classes.  Somebody teaches, a few regulars speak up, and the 85% majority do the listening.  Listening and learning are good, but the Bible invites us to go deeper!

 In Matthew 13:2 (NLT) we find "A large crowd soon gathered around him[Jesus], so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore.  What an awesome setting for a sermon.  What a great place to do Celebration, with Jesus as the preacher.

But in Matthew 13:10 (NLT) we find that "His disciples came and asked him, 'Why do you use parables when you talk to the people?'"  Suddenly there is some give and take between Jesus and the disciples.  The experience has gone from one man teaching listeners to several people in dialog.  Sounds like Life Group!

In 1 Corinthians 14:23B-26 (NLT) the Apostle Paul painted a wonderful picture of Christians "Doing Life Together"
  
But if all of you are prophesying, and unbelievers or people who don’t understand these things come into your meeting, they will be convicted of sin and judged by what you say. As they listen, their secret thoughts will be exposed, and they will fall to their knees and worship God, declaring, “God is truly here among you.” Well, my brothers and sisters, let’s summarize. When you meet together, one will sing, another will teach, another will tell some special revelation God has given, one will speak in tongues, and another will interpret what is said. But everything that is done must strengthen all of you. 




When Life Groups meet everyone has a chance to use the gifts God has so graciously given them.  There is time for everyone to share, and to be heard.  There is opportunity for different people to facilitate the discussion, lead music, bring snack, teach the kids, and share in prayer.  Questions are asked, sins confessed, wisdom shared, and knowledge gained.  When we actively participate in Celebration, Life Groups, and Mentoring we open ourselves up to three different levels of Christian experience.  My prayer is that you are fully enjoying all three!