There are several good answers to that question, but here’s my thinking.
The early Christians met together with great frequency (Acts 2:46). When we worship God there is a “vertical” dimension of awe and wonder at God’s throne (Hebrews 12:22)— and most would agree.
However, there’s a “horizontal” dimension that we consider far more optional than God does! Earlier in Hebrews 10:24-25, this lofty activity of worshipping God is connected to something much more earthly… encouraging each other. From my point of view, that is the purpose of Life Group. We study the Word, we fellowship, we pray and serve together… to encourage each person to follow Christ with our total being. As hard a we try, and we do, we don’t always understand or even recognize the spiritual needs of one another when we are in a large assembly. However, when we assemble with a few, it’s easier to take care of each other. Our encouragement can be more meaningful because it can be more personal.
And… we like each other too. There hasn’t been a week go by that at least one of my kids hasn’t ask if we are having life group—they can’t wait to see the other kids in the group. I think that’s a pretty cool deal, speaking as a minister and a parent.
So, I can’t wait to get Life Group Started again!
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