VOX Small Groups
- 2. Mission Statement VOX MISSION STATEMENT “ Because of the gospel, VOX Church exists to overcome religion through Christ-centered relationships, resulting in changed lives!” GATHER – GROW – GO VOX small groups exist for GROWTH—Jesus’ last words to his disciples were, “Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)
- 3. Discipleship The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) Just as we take special note of the last paragraph of a novel or the last scene of a movie, we should pay close attention to Jesus’ last words on earth. Jesus’ last instructions to his disciples were to go out and make more disciples! He said to teach them what it means to be a follower of Christ and baptize them as a public declaration of their faith. And he promised to be with them as they did this. VOX small groups are a modern day extension of the Great Commission; our goal is to teach people what it means to grow in their knowledge of Jesus and the Bible and in turn to teach others to do the same—that is true discipleship!
- 4. Why do we need small groups at VOX? What is a small group and why should you join one? At VOX, we believe that joining a small group is the next step in taking your faith to a deeper level. Attending Sunday morning worship is not enough! People need to feel connected, like they are part of a larger family. They also need to be challenged and encouraged by strong, Christian friends they can trust. Joining a VOX small group will help you connect with believers who are interested in studying the Bible and growing together in their faith. As a group, you will learn what it means to live out your faith on a daily basis. Most importantly, VOX small groups are focused on JESUS!
- 5. Grow VOX small groups are all about GROWTH: Growth in community with other believers Growth in our relationship with Jesus Growth in multiplication of our groups – This happens through discipleship!
- 6. What VOX small groups are NOT: SOCIAL CLUBS BASED IN INTEREST GENDER-BASED INSULAR DEVOTIONAL OR THEME-BASED STUDY
- 7. What will VOX small groups look like? COMMUNITY SCRIPTURE PRAYER DISCIPLESHIP (GROWTH) COMMUNION VOX small groups should literally feel like a small church. Groups will incorporate people of all ages, gender and walks of life, including children. VOX believes that spiritual growth and development occurs as believers encourage and disciple one another on a personal level. The focus should be on urging each other to become more like JESUS CHRIST.
- 8. When & where will VOX small groups meet? VOX small groups will meet weekly in homes throughout Chesterfield and the greater Detroit and Port Huron areas, starting in September 2010.
- 9. What do we need to start small groups? LEADERS VOX needs small group leaders who will be responsible for the spiritual growth of the group – leading Scripture-based discussion and prayer. Leaders should not be new Christians and should be humble, compassionate, knowledgeable of Scripture, able to teach and willing to come under the guidance of VOX leadership. HOSTS VOX needs small group hosts who will be responsible for greeting and welcoming people into the group; they will arrange for child-care, snacks and keep members updated on events/prayer requests. Hosts should be friendly, outgoing, hospitable, organized and easily approachable. HOMES VOX needs homes where small groups can meet each week. For those not interested in leading or hosting but would like to open their homes, this is a great way to get involved! You don’t need to own a huge home; you just have to be willing to open your doors.
- 10. Leadership Training Anyone interested in leading, hosting or opening their home for small groups will be required to attend a leadership training small group in May-June 2010. The group will be led by Jeni Thompson and Andre & Jen Spotts and will meet in the Spotts’ home in Chesterfield on Wednesday of each week, beginning May 5th. Leadership Training will look and feel much like a regular small group but will focus specifically on how to lead Scripture-based groups and how to answer theological questions from new and seasoned believers. It will also emphasize GROWTH—in community with believers, in relationship with God and in multiplication of groups. The goal is to launch multiple small groups in September, each of which will have the same structure and focus. Leadership Training New Small Group Disciple Future Leaders
- 11. Leadership Training Format Socializing Hang out for 15-20 mins before and after study time Eat snacks Bible study Read 1 chapter from Bible Discuss insights/answer questions Led by Jeni Training topic Brief teaching session on one doctrinal issue Discuss insights/answer questions Led by Andre & Jen 15-20 mins Socializing 30 mins Bible Study 15 mins Training Topic 10-15 mins Prayer 15-20 mins Socializing
- 12. Training Topics Confusing aspects of the Christian faith for new believers: Prayer – Why do we need prayer? Communion and Baptism – Do we need it to be saved? How can you prove God exists/How can you have confidence in what you believe? The problem of evil and suffering… How can a loving God allow…? Stumbling blocks to people becoming Christians: The feeling that Christians want to convert people more than love them Hypocrisy Confusion about denominations Distrust of pastors/church leaders The problem of evil
- 13. Interested in volunteering? Sign-up sheet Questions – email groups@voxchurch.tv