Session 2 – CARING FOR SMALL GROUP MEMBERS
How to Respond to Needs in Your Small Group
• Suffer and rejoice with people; show empathy (1 Corinthians 12:26)
• Group prayer (James 1:5; 5:15-16)
• Share Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
• Share resources with people, invite them to your home (Romans 12:13)
• In case of sin (Galatians 6:1), restore people gently
Small Group Case Studies
Eunice: You receive a phone call from Eunice the morning after your most recent small group meeting. She tells you that she is not going to attend the meetings any more, but she is unclear about the reason why. As you think about it, you remember that Eunice spoke very little during the fellowship or discussion time, and left without talking to anyone after the meeting was over. What would you do?
Kathy: Duringoneofthemeetings, thegroupmembershavebeensharing personal prayer requests. When it is Kathy’s turn, she looks at the floor and says quietly that everything is fine, thanks. During the prayer time, you are not sure, but suspect that she is crying. What would you do?
Andrew and Maria: A married couple, Andrew and Maria have been coming to your group for almost a year. During that time, their attendance has been irregular, at best. Lately, during the group meetings, it is obvious to the group that there is some definite tension between them. You suspect perhaps they have a problem in their marriage, but don’t feel that you know them well enough to ask them about it. What would you do?
Michael: Recently, one of the group members invited a co-worker named Michael to the group. During the Bible discussion times, he asks a lot of questions and wants to learn more about Jesus. However, Michael has a very irritating personality, and he is constantly insulting people (apparently without realizing it). His presence has hindered what used to be very enjoyable meeting times. For several weeks now, he has not attended the meetings, and to be honest, most of the group members are relieved that he is no longer there. What would you do?
Action Plan for Module 10
• Write down two or three ways your small group members can grow in showing their love for one another. Write down several activities your small group members can do to pray more for one another.
• Write down two ideas for ways your small group could spend time together outside of a regular meeting. Plan to do this sometime during the next three months.
• Encourage the members in your small group to share needs, concerns, and problems with the group, and look for ways the group can help.
• Begin implementing your plan and be prepared to share your progress during the Module 10 training.