Small Group Bible Studies

Small group Bible studies are a great way to connect with members of a church congregation while growing as an individual on a spiritual walk. These meetings are more intensive than the traditional weekly sermon from the pastor because of the dynamic. This setting will prove to be most effective with a crowd of ten or less and often with only one gender of members. There are many different small group Bible study resources that can be utilized to create a great format or structure for these groups. "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15)



Often, the most valuable resource of these organized sessions will be the Bible. As the crowd begins their meetings, they should agree upon a certain book of the Bible, chapter, or story to read. In many cases, the participants in small group Bible studies will wish to journal ideas, memory verses, and prayers to share in future meetings. Other great small group Bible study resources will include the advice of members of the congregation who have participated in or led these sessions in the past and supplementary guides that go along with the reading.



Members should keep notes from the meetings, in order to know what topics have been covered and what topics are of interest for future discussions. This information will help to dictate the topic for new small group Bible studies. If the focus topics are interrelated, some members may find it easier to understand, learn and implement the Biblical principles. One of the most important parts of this type of discussion session is getting to know each person in the group. By participating in this organized study session, each person offers a certain amount of vulnerability. Therefore, it is important that everyone agrees to trust one another. With a small amount of people, conflicts are sure to arise. There are small group Bible study resources specifically designed to help aid in these situations.



Conflict resolution is an important part of teamwork, making it especially important in this situation, as each small group is attempting to help each individual grow spiritually. Leaders of small group Bible studies should always be alert to these situations and have several tactics at hand to help mediate, both personally and Biblically. These groups are an essential part of the Christian spiritual walk and personal development. Leaders can find small group Bible study resources such as icebreakers, games, books, topic ideas or any other type of inspiration from online websites or from local Christian bookstores.