Confessions Of A Small Group Leader - The End Of Our Beginning

Another Piece of Joe's article... here we go:

The End of Our Beginning

I once heard J. Vernon McGee say something to the effect that most organizations get started because there's a real need that ought to be met, but many groups perpetuate themselves long after the goals have been met. They outlive their usefulness.

From the beginning I viewed the Bible study as a temporary work that would meet some needs, fill a gap, and then pass away when no longer needed. I often thought of Amos the prophet, who rose from obscurity to speak the words God gave him and then, his mission completed, had enough sense to shut up and go back to his herds. I vowed I would be like Amos and disband the small group when my prophetic mission was accomplished.

Eventually came the day when I felt the Bible study had outlived its purpose. Most of the people were in churches that, for the most part, met their needs, and the few who hadn't yet joined organized congregations were spiritually strong enough to survive without the weekly spoon feeding. Of course, there were a few who relied on the group heavily—too heavily, I thought. I suspected they would grow more if made to fend for themselves.

The first time I suggested we disband, the group protested. I gave it more time but urged them to pray for God's direction and to examine their motives for seeing the group continue.

The next time I suggested dissolution, there were nods of agreement. We met one more time, and then called it quits.

I am not really sure how to respond to Joe here. I am sure he made the right decision for himself, however I hope he took a good look at the needs of each group member before cutting them loose. Which again brings us back to what is the purpose you group has and what is your spiritual gift mix. Do your giftings help the group fulfill that purpose?

What Joe is addressing is quite an interesting topic. Should every group have a beginning and an end? I don't think so. Some groups should but not every group. Some groups are dynamic and in constant shift. Quickly assimilating new people, bringing them to a point in their spiritual journey and sending them out to lead other groups, serve in ministries and building up new groups. While other groups that are evangelizing spend years exploring topics to help just one person cross the line of faith.

Hopefully, if you are at this crossroads that Joe is speaking of, then you too are carefully seeking God's wisdom in how to proceed.