Home cells
The importance of the small group in the local church cannot be stressed enough
Introduction
To ensure proper care for those entrusted to us, we need to reach them effectively. We must accept that, like with Moses, we would like to do everything ourselves, but in the process, we either burn out and or neglect God's people. Too many pastors want to do all the work because they do not trust their own people. The main reason for this is because the pastors do not equip others with the tools to effectively lead a smaller group. The only way to care for them and to assure “fellowship” is through the use of home cells.
Do you think that we reach people through our preaching on a Sunday? How much of the message do they understand? The local church service does not offer the opportunity to ask questions related to the message. This, among other issues, can be effectively addressed during a home cell meeting.
Did you know that for us to “understand” the message, we must hear it six times. Therefore, we need to change our way of doing things!
Definition
A cell is a small group of people who support and encourage one another in such a way that the group will grow (mature) in their spiritual walk, discover their gifts and ministries, and start reaching out to others!
What can we learn from this? Discuss.
Practical: Let us look at some words and the meaning thereof.
- Leadership – the one who leads, and gives direction, guidance, and influence.
- Responsibility – must be responsible for something, to someone, and take care of something or someone.
- Fellowship – koinonia – to have something in common, communication.
Discuss the use of an organigram and the practical use thereof.
Homework
Read Exodus chapter 18. Notice how Jethro's advice helped to ease the burden on Moses. He admitted that he had too much to do. Jethro showed him how to distribute the workload and responsibility.
Look at the following scriptures, taken from both the Old and New Testaments. This proves that the concept of small groups is not a New Testament teaching, but was practiced well before the Church was founded.
13Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers over you. – Deuteronomy 1:13
3Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. – Acts 6:3
Who must select leaders?
The next lesson builds on the study you do now.