![]() ![]() ![]() They should note the ways they learn and benefit from their friends’ insights, comments, and questions. And they thank their group members (both during and after the meeting) for their participation.Ī small group leader should also look forward to conversation with their group, and they should say so. How does a leader invite discussion? They ask for it. Leaders who value discussion will invite it from their group members-regularly and emphatically. Inviting discussion is different than tolerating or even welcoming it. Your friends are not the only ones who need to listen, engage, and learn! A Leader Must Invite Discussion And discussion is also better than lecturing for you, as a leader. Hear this, leaders: Conversation is the best way for your group members to learn and grow. And, if you’re a leader, trust me-your friends can tell whether or not you want to hear from them. Having attended classes and small groups for twenty-some years, I can tell when a leader values discussion and when they are just playing a part. They think the group would be better off if they could share their knowledge without interruption-and a brain-to-brain download would be even more efficient! ![]() Many leaders know that the question-and-answer model is expected, but deep down they resent it. They need to be convinced it is actually good-both for the group and for the leader-to have conversation in the group. Perhaps this is obvious, but a small group leader needs to value discussion in order for it to happen. There are at least four ways a leader can work to create a climate that encourages good discussion. Creating a Good AtmosphereĪ small group leader has an enormous influence on the group’s culture. When this is the air we breathe, few good questions will go unanswered. When everyone is expected to share prayer requests or stay afterward to play Backgammon, those activities develop into part of the routine.Ī small group leader should aim to create a group atmosphere in which deep, vibrant conversation is expected. The culture of any group takes a lot of time and effort to create, but after the culture is established a lot of decisions and behaviors become automatic. Now we turn to another reason for unanswered questions: a group atmosphere that discourages interaction. I’ve recently written about the characteristics of a good question, and I’ve provided some examples. These silences usually happen when the group leader asks a bad question. ![]() We will listen to each other with our eyes and heart, as well as ears.Most Bible studies are marked by periods of silence that last just a little too long. We will refrain from gossip-giving information about someone in ways which cast him or her in a negative light. We will contribute to and be careful not to monopolize the discussions. We will provide a safe environment in which what's said in the group stays in the group. We will encourage each other to grow in our relationship with Jesus and to align our beliefs and actions with the Bible's truth. Is there something the group wants to add or adjust? Then each person comment on one that stands out to you or that you think will be helpful and why. Practical Solutions to Common Small Group Dilemmas ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |