Always Open...

Part 5 of 7 - Addressing the issues of “The Seven Deadly Sins of Small Group Ministry”

Sin Five: Closed Group Mind-Set. An incredible illustration is given in this chapter of the book for receiving others. A challenge to be radically inclusive, in that we should be people who reach out with welcoming arms as much or more as we are people that reach up with arms in need to God. Think about the statement for a moment... “God knows nothing of a people who stretch their arms upward to Him yet don’t in turn stretch them out to those He loves so much.” Wow, that is an eye opening image for sure.

Really for small groups to be successful, they must be accessible to those in need; the need being relationship and spiritual growth. A convenience store is named just that, because it is always open. Imagine not being able to just walk in at anytime and get what you need? Not very convenient, Huh!

Our small group program has had an open chair policy from the inception, but has it had an open chair mindset? You can make the best policy with the greatest of intentions, but if it is not internalized and realized then it becomes just policy.

I would offer this challenge to all of our small groups... Use your group connection cards to invite others and fill your open chairs. In fact, don’t invite just anyone, but invite someone that needs Jesus. That’s right; a true seeker that you and your group can invest in the way the Father has invested in you.

Remember to reach out as often as you reach up!