By Greg Masslich
Every fall, we spend a few weeks emphasizing the importance of joining small groups. You might wonder why this is so crucial. Over the next few weeks, I’ll answer that question as we gear up for the launch of our Small Groups Ministry this September.
Christians have been meeting in small groups for over 2,000 years. It is clearly a part of our culture, but why is it so important to join a group? We list four primary reasons for joining a small group in our materials. This week, I’ll focus on the first reason: the incredible impact small groups have on helping us study and apply Scripture.
The primary way God speaks to us is through His Word – the Bible. However, for many, reading Scripture doesn’t always lead to understanding or feeling closer to God. Without studying and applying Scripture to your life, the Bible is nothing more than an old book gathering dust. Paul emphasizes this in Philippians 4:9, urging us to put into practice what we learn so that God’s peace will be with us.
Studying Scripture is a fundamental aspect of our faith, but it can sometimes be challenging to understand and apply it in our daily lives. This is where small groups come in. In a small group setting, you can delve deeper into the Bible with others on the same journey. You can ask questions, share insights, and gain a broader perspective on the passages you study. This can lead to a richer and more meaningful understanding of Scripture.
When we read the Bible, we get to know God, understand His ways, and discover His purpose for us. It’s like uncovering a treasure trove of wisdom in areas where we tend to lack it. This knowledge provides a solid foundation for living the life God has meticulously planned for us – a life filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
However, applying Scripture to our lives is often easier said than done. It's one thing to read about the principles and teachings of the Bible, but it's another to live them out in our everyday actions and decisions. Small groups provide a supportive environment where you can discuss practical ways to incorporate biblical principles into your life. Hearing how to properly interpret Scripture and how others apply God’s teachings can offer new and practical approaches you might not have considered on your own.
Studying and applying Scripture can transform our lives. Engaging with God’s Word shapes our character, aligns our values with God’s, and equips us to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and grace. It fosters personal growth, helping us become more compassionate, patient, and loving individuals.
We need to understand that we are not alone in this journey. Joining a small group can significantly enhance your ability to study and apply Scripture to your life. Through group discussion and practical application, small groups can help you grow in your faith and live out biblical teachings more effectively.
Next week, we will explore the second reason for joining a small group: praying for each other. Stay tuned!
I used the following sources to help me put together this article: The Holy Bible, and www.gotquestions.com.
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