One day many years ago, our Christ ascended into heaven. He said he would come back. His last words to his disciples were to go, and make disciples of all nations every day. But by the end of Chapter 2 in the book of Acts, however, we learn that first-century Christians were living lives intimately with one another. Our Lord had not departed from them for very long at all, and had they forgotten already what he said to them? Why were they not going and making disciples of all nations? We believe the reason is because they somehow understood they were to go and make disciples of all nations as they lived their lives intimately with each other. They understood they were not to go and make disciples of all nations in isolation.
We believe the goal of every Christ follower is never to live lives in a group. Rather, the goal has always been to go, and make disciples of all nations. Even though the goal is not to live lives in a group, it is, however, essential.
Discipleship Groups
Discipleship Groups are groups that focus on growing as followers of Jesus by applying the Bible to everyday life at the head, heart, and hands levels. These groups thrive on intentional leaders and people who are willing to share life with one another. Some Discipleship Groups are men-only groups or women-only groups. Other Discipleship Groups welcome married couples and singles, men and women, and youth.
lifeGroups
LifeGroups are slightly more intentional groups. Each LifeGroup has no more than eight individuals, and it is a more intimate group. Two of the eight chairs in the room are reserved for unbelievers to the Christian faith. LifeGroups invite unbelievers to join, and to do life together. Discipleship is bringing those who are already Christians to grow and become mature Christians. In a LifeGroup, discipleship is also bringing unbelievers, those who want to have nothing to do with God, to grow and become mature Christians.
For more information about groups at LifeWay, please contact Associate Pastor of Discipleship Alvin Lin, or the LifeWay office.