New Community Bible Fellowship

Small Groups

Purpose of Christian Education- Care & Development for Each Member

#1 As Instructed by Paul

Paul teaches us that God has given key leaders to the church in order to train (equip) the rest of the members to fulfill much of the work of the ministry. In other words, God does not expect pastors, ministers and deacons to be the only ones visiting the sick, witnessing in the community and teaching the flock. God expects the leaders to train the members to share in nurturing, serving and caring for the church and reaching the lost.

Ephesians 4:11-12

[11] And [Christ] Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, [12] for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.

#2 As Modeled through the Jethro Principle

The Jethro Principle teaches that even in the Old Testament, God wanted each of his people to get proper care and attention. The model He set in place was small group management of the people of God (Ex. 18:13-22). The Jethro Principle also teaches that God has never wanted his leaders to become run down with too much responsibility.

Exodus 18:21-22

[18] Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. [22] And let them judge the people at all times. Then it will be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they themselves shall judge. So it will be easier for you, for they will bear the burden with you.

Four Convictions Gleaned from the Jethro Principle:

1. God expects proper care and spiritual development for every person in the church.

2. The oversight of every member of the church is too great for the pastor and officers alone.

3. Additional lay leaders will always be needed.

4. All leaders should receive suitable training and care.

#3 Christian Education groups at New Community Bible Fellowship

New Community Bible Fellowship's Christian Education is made up of Life Groups and Adult Bible Fellowships. It is our pray that you consider joining a small group Bible study. God will use this group to help you grow and develop in your walk with Him.