1. Focus on the individual
Individual as the Core:
The most critical component of discipleship is the individual. Success with one person is the foundation for success with a group.
- Example: Jesus’ model (1 Corinthians 15:6 mentions 500 disciples) included large groups (500), smaller groups (120, 72, 12), and intimate circles (Peter, James, John), but He often focused on individuals like Peter.
- Application: Build a deep, personal relationship with each group member to earn the right to speak into their life, advise, and hold them accountable (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8).
Personalized Care:
Like a mother with triplets, tailor discipleship to each group members needs, not treating them as a uniform crowd.
- Scripture: “We were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children… we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us” (1 Thess 2:7-8).
Mutual Accountability:
The leaders relationship with the group member is two-way, involvement in each other’s lives, while building mutual trust and being sincere and open with each other. (Ruth 2:19-23)
2. Build Relationships with mutual responsibility & commitment
Love and Value:
Relationships must be rooted in genuine love and mutual value, not duty. Negative energy from a strained relationship discourages meetings.
- Challenge for Caregivers: Assess your relationship with each group member—do you enjoy their company? If not, it may hinder the discipleship process.
- Outcome: A loving bond motivates personal Bible study – “I’ll do it because I was asked by someone I trust,” not out of obligation.
3. Contextual Flexibility and Security
Adapting to Context:
A new convert’s former way of life may require reorientation to a Christian worldview (for example changing previous relgious practices and instilling new Christian habits and disciplines.
Understand group member worldviews
This means listening to their stories, understanding their challenges, and walking alongside them in faith.
Creative Group Formation:
Create groups in a creative way, choose meeting places wisely, ensuring safety and natural fellowship in ways that most easily fit into the lives of your group members.
4. Forming and Sustaining Groups
Start with Individuals:
Work with group members individually before forming groups, assessing their readiness and trustworthiness.
- Example: Introduce individuals casually (e.g., over tea) to build real trust, not forcing premature group cohesion.
Group Composition:
Preferably select same-gender groups (e.g., men with men, women with women) to avoid complications.
- Exception: Mixed groups are acceptable for families (husband-wife, parent-child).
Size and Language:
Keep groups small (2-7 people) and ensure that all speak the same language (e.g., Swahili speakers together) for effective communication.
Punctuality:
Value time as a sign of respect to maintain momentum in the group.
5. Cultivating Trust and Fellowship
Trust Through Relationships:
Trust emerges from individual discipleship, not from a position of authority by the leader.
- Process: Mature believers mentor younger ones, fostering a safe space for sharing struggles (e.g., “I’m struggling with this”).
Beyond Bible Studies:
A group should be a family – eating together, playing soccer, hiking, sharing joys and sorrows, not just a Bible study.
Handling Struggles:
Support members with addictions, illnesses, or mistakes without judgment, adjusting plans to care for them.
6. Goals and Structure
Clear Objectives:
Define a task (e.g., studying the Gospel of John for six months) and commit to finishing it together, avoiding indefinite timelines.
Caregiver’s Role:
Lead without dominating – encourage participation, respect views, and adapt to group discoveries. Try to guide conversations and discussions without lecturing.
Conflict Resolution:
Address arguments or differences gently, handle complex issues with individual follow-up.
