Small groups are all about fostering community. As pastors and church leaders, you know that. You’re here to learn how you can help your congregation make the most of small groups. And we’ll get there, no doubt.
But first we’ll tackle the hardest truth for leaders to accept: real community starts with you.
In today’s show, you’ll hear from Doug Fields, executive director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University, on the private life of a public leader. Then we’ll listen in to a conversation between Holly Crawshaw, Sarah Bragg and Heather Zempel on the big changes you can bring about with small groups.
Welcome to Episode 60 of the Think Orange Podcast.
Topic Timeline
Dave and Ashley introduce today’s guests. (5:35)
Doug Fields on the rooms of a leader’s soul. (9:15)
You can’t sustain a long term, busy pace without danger to yourself and others. (12:48)
Leaders need authentic community. (15:00)
Identify and track rhythms of your time to be more effective. (21:05)
Leaders must be lifelong learners. (24:55)
Remember: we are spiritual leaders, not activities directors. (27:30)
Healthy leaders can run the marathon because they know they’re called to it. (30:33)
Holly Crawshaw and Sarah Bragg introduce Heather Zempel. (32:58)
Heather Zempel on the four principles of a small group leader (35:46)
How to really be present for members of your small group. (40:45)
What it looks like to live in the tension as a leader. (44:48)
Practical ways a pastor can encourage small group leaders to move their members out. (49:22)
The reason we exist is to make disciples. (52:22)
Dave and Ashley’s final thoughts. (54:25)
