Small Groups

Small Groups are the heart of our church community. They are intentionally centered around connection—bringing people together through shared hobbies, common life experiences, and similar seasons of life to foster meaningful relationships and a strong sense of belonging within the greater church body.

In a large church setting, it can be easy to feel anonymous. Small Groups create a space where everyone is known, valued, and encouraged. Whether it’s a group for young families, retirees, college students, men, women, or those who share interests like outdoor activities, book discussions, or service projects, each group is designed to build authentic community. These connections strengthen not only individual relationships but also deepen our unity as one church family.

Small Groups typically meet weekly or biweekly in homes, at the church, or in community spaces. Gatherings may include Bible study, prayer, discussion, shared meals, or activities connected to the group’s focus. Each group is led by dedicated leaders who are committed to cultivating a welcoming, Christ-centered environment where everyone feels seen and supported.

As members grow in relationship with one another, they also grow in faith. Together, they explore Scripture, share life’s joys and challenges, pray for one another, and encourage practical application of biblical truth. Through shared experiences and genuine connection, faith becomes lived out in everyday life.

We believe spiritual growth and life change happen best in community. Small Groups are where friendships are formed, belonging is strengthened, and individuals become more deeply connected to the larger church family. No matter your background or interests, there is a place for you to connect, grow, and belong.

• There is only one path to God - Jesus Christ is the only door/gate into relationship with God
• Salvation is an entrance, not an exit - The journey with God moves forward toward deeper intimacy
• The veil has been torn - Through Christ's sacrifice, we have direct access to God's presence
• We are a royal priesthood - Believers have both citizenship in the kingdom and priestly authority
• God meets us in the wilderness - God desires to be with us in our struggles, not just on the other side

• The sermon emphasized that "God meets you where you're at." How have you experienced God meeting you in your mess or brokenness?
• Why do you think God established only one entrance to the Tabernacle? What does this teach us about the exclusivity of Christ as the way to God?
• The Brazen Altar (sacrifice) and Brazen Laver (washing) represent forgiveness and cleansing. How do these two elements work together in your spiritual life?

• Golden Lampstand - Illumination and truth
• Table of Showbread - Jesus as the Bread of Life
• Altar of Incense - Prayer and worship

Which of these three areas do you need to grow in most right now?

How does serving God help you grow spiritually? Share a time when service deepened your relationship with God.

• The sermon asked, "Have you experienced God, or do you just believe in God?" What's the difference between the two? Where are you on that spectrum?
• When Jesus died, the veil was torn, giving us direct access to God. How should this truth change the way we pray and approach God?
• The pastor used the ice cream analogy—once you taste it, you want more and want to share it. Have you experienced God in a way that makes you want more of Him and want others to experience Him too?

• The sermon emphasized that salvation is "an entrance, not an exit." What does this mean practically for someone who is struggling in their faith?
• Psalm 91 was quoted: "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." What does it mean to "dwell" in God's presence rather than just visit occasionally?

• Where am I in my journey through the Tabernacle?
• Am I still in the Outer Courts (new in faith, focused on salvation)?
• Am I in the Holy Place (serving but not yet experiencing deep intimacy)?
• Am I pressing into the Most Holy Place (seeking God's manifest presence)?
• What is preventing me from going deeper with God?
• What specific step can I take this week to move closer to God's presence?

1. If you haven't accepted Christ: Make that decision today. Talk to your group leader or pastor.
2. If you're new in faith: Spend 10 minutes daily reading the Gospel of John to understand who Jesus is.

1. Commit to service: Volunteer for one ministry opportunity in your church this month.
2. Establish a prayer routine: Set aside 15 minutes daily for prayer (use the Lord's Prayer as a guide).
3. Study the Word: Join a Bible study or commit to reading one chapter of Scripture daily.

• For Those Pressing into the Most Holy Place:
• Practice God's presence: Throughout your day, pause to acknowledge God's presence with you.
• Extended worship: Set aside 30 minutes for worship without any requests—just focus on who God is.
• Intercession: Pray for others in your group who are earlier in their journey.

• Share your testimony: Tell someone this week about your journey with God (use the ice cream analogy—share what you've tasted!)
• Examine your path: Are you trying to exit what God wants you to enter more deeply into? Confess any areas of backsliding.

• For those who don't yet know Christ
• For group members to move deeper in their journey with God
• For those going through trials (as mentioned at the sermon's end)

Commitment: For grace to follow God's pattern and not the world's pattern

• Read Exodus 25-27 (the original instructions for the Tabernacle)
• Journal about your experience trying to move deeper in one area this week
• Be prepared to share one "but God" moment from your life

• Be sensitive to those who may be new to faith or struggling
• Emphasize that this is a journey—no one should feel condemned for where they are
• Celebrate growth and encourage those who are seeking more of God
• Follow up individually with anyone who seems stuck or discouraged

Small groups help people grow in their faith and build community. Our groups take place throughout the week in different neighborhoods, so use this form to find a group that's right for you. We'd love to have you join us!