Bible Discovery Group
Birthing Groups
When a group becomes consistently over 12,
it is time to birth two groups from the one. This is a hard thing to
do because we have all become friends and do not want to sever the
relationships. However, the relationships should continue outside of
the weekly group.
As a group grows past twelve, discussion tends to center on a few
individuals. Many are unable to share what God has been revealing to
them about the scripture just read, and their words might be fresh
revelation for those doing most of the talking. The large group
shifts from being a Bible discussion to being a Bible study with a
few leaders.
The best way to divide a large group in two is by lot. Have everyone
write their names on a piece of paper (one paper for a couple) and
put them into a container. Then have the host for the evening draw
names, one at a time. The first name drawn goes into new group 1 and
the second into group 2. Alternate between 1 and 2 and then have the
host for the evening determine the host, facilitator, and snack
person for each group for the next week.
The meetings should remain on the same evenings during the week, but
they may not end up at the same scripture.
The Evans as overseers of all the groups will alternate between
groups. With multiple groups in various areas of the country, they
may not be able to be at one particular group very often, but will
be in touch by email and phone.
Once a month, all groups in an area should gather together perhaps with a
pot-luck supper and fellowship time. This will be a time for
corporate worship and prayer at a location fitting for the size of
the group. This may be at someone’s home or at a rented facility. If
the later is the case, the cost of the facility will be shared
amongst the participants.
Depending on the needs of the groups, this might be held on a night
other than the normal meeting night, but there should be
consistency. For example, the first Tuesday night of each month set
aside as the group gathering time.