LIFE! Groups

What happens in a LIFE Group?
Most of the groups gather together every week and go through a lesson that is based on the sermon from the previous weekend.  The lesson includes a time of Bible application, worship, prayer, and evangelistic focus (i.e. an outreach project or praying for a non-Christian friend).  Also, as a natural byproduct of all this, the people in the groups experience true community and are a snapshot of what the original Church in Acts looked like.  Again, the goal of each group is to encourage and challenge each other to fulfill the great commission (Matt. 28:18-20) by using their gifts, talents, and abilities (1 Peter 4:10) to become leaders/influencers for Christ.

Will I have to facilitate a group?
We believe everyone can influence/lead someone onto a deeper level of growth and maturity.  We also believe that when you are helping others grow closer to Jesus your relationship with Him will grow by leaps and bounds.  That's the goal. Facilitating or leading a LIFE! Group has two job descriptions: facilitating the group meeting and the individual's growth.  We understand that some can facilitate after 5 months and others after 5 years, but the goal is to be heading in that direction.

How important is it that I get into a LIFE! Group?
At Shepherd we believe it is vital that you be connected to others in healthy and growing relationships.  Jesus never intended us to go through the joys and trials of life alone.  A LIFE! Group is a place for each of us to be real with each other so that we can help each other along toward maturity in Jesus.

What is the Biblical backing for LIFE! Groups?
Matthew 28:18-20: Jesus commissions us to make disciples, baptize them, and help them obey His commands.  1 Peter 4:10: Peter encourages everyone to use their gifts to serve others.  Hebrews 10:24-25: The author points out our need for fellowship and accountability. Acts 2:42-47: Believers met in homes and studied the Word, ate together, praised God, and experienced true Biblical community.  Acts 20:20: Paul confirms the 1st Century Church met publicly and from "house to house."

When and where do they meet?
The group leaders determine when and where they meet. Most groups meet on weeknights, but some meet during the day, morning, or on weekends.  Most of the groups meet in each other's homes all over the San Fernando Valley and some in the Santa Clarita and Simi Valleys.

How long do they last?
The group time is 90 minutes.  These groups will meet for a series of weeks, with breaks in between series.

What is the required commitment?
We ask that those who attend the group make it a priority in their weekly schedule, keep what is said in the group confidential, participate in group life, support each other, and keep accountable with the group.

Is there childcare?
Each group is responsible for providing their own childcare. Depending on the age of the children, some groups include them in some part of the group time (Welcome, Worship, etc.) and then separate them in another room.  Other suggestions are the parents chipping in together to hire a babysitter either at the place they meet or at a nearby home.  Each group can decide how to handle this issue in the most appropriate way for their group.

How can I start my own group?
New leaders primarily come from the groups themselves, so the best way to lead a group is to first get involved in one.  In order to develop the foundation, accountability and training necessary to become an effective leader we provide “Encounter Retreats.”  To find out more about the next Encounter, please call Lori at 831-9333 x111.