What is a Life Group?

A Life Group is a small community of up to 12 people who regularly meet to do life together as a learning, serving and witnessing community. Our goal is that by 2024 we will see 70% of the church in these close-knit Life Group communities committed to God’s mission together.

Why have we chosen a Life Group ministry model?

We are convinced that these smaller, close-knit, life-on-life groups are the most effective means to carry out our church’s mission and advance the revitalisation process by making and growing disciples of Jesus, building deep relationships of care and accountability with one another and bringing the hope of the gospel to others. It is where we learn, do local outreach, assist with Sunday service set-up, welcome newcomers, pray for the church, etc. It is the platform for distributing important information as well. Our Life Group ministry aims to equip brothers and sisters to serve in the church as well participate in mission outside of church.

One major advantage of the Life Group model is that it enables all members not to be passive spectators but active participants in the mission of God. Life group is owned not only be the church, by shared amongst the group members. We believe in priesthood of all believers and we aim to develop generous group members who are willing to give their time, money, and gifts.

What's the difference between Life Groups, Small Groups and Bible Study Groups?

While there are similarities between small groups and life groups, we chose a Life Group ministry model to emphasise our focus on doing life together by way of deep and committed relationships of care, growth and accountability. Studying the Bible is an essential aspect of a Life Group meeting but it is not the only or main priority. Our goal is life transformation and mission, so while Bible study plays a central role, so too does prayer, caring and accountability and witnessing together.

What are the key elements of a Life Group?

In Life Groups we have a dual emphasis on life transformation and mission. An emphasis on the group sharing life deeply together, that Life group will help each group members to live out a Christian life in every sphere of their lives. A further emphasis on the group encourages and spur each other in mission for God, that the group becomes comrades in fulfilling the Great Commission.

What does a typical Life Group meeting look like?

The format is flexible depending on your particular group, but here is a general guideline:

WELCOME (15 MINS)

Welcoming, games or songs, or announcements

MINISTRY AND MISSION (20 MINS)

Thinking about how the group is being missional and serving in ministry areas

WORD (40 MINS)

Teaching from the Bible, discussion and discipleship

WORK (35 MINS)

Prayer for each other, comfort and encouragement, praying for church and community

How many people are in a Life Group?

Each life group should consist with around 6-12 people with a trained Life Group leader and co-leader. If there are more than 12 people, the group should be starting to plan to multiply within 6 months. The co-leader should then step up to lead a group. The multiplication of the group is to be decided in consultation and under advice by the zone leader and life group director.

How often should my Life Group meet?

Life Group meetings should be regular, between 2-4 times per month. You could also choose to join with other life groups for special events, such as outreach, fellowship, and holidays (Christmas, Easter etc.).

Where should my Life Group meet?

We encourage brothers and sisters to open their homes and practise hospitality where possible, but you are also welcome to meet at church.

How do I join a Life Group?

Please speak to your congregational pastor if you would like to join a life group.

What is expected of me when I join a Life Group?
  • To attend regularly.
  • To be ready to give and receive care and accountability.
  • To be ready to contribute to the life of the group through the use of your God given gifts.
  • To be willing to grow by learning, serving and witnessing side by side with your fellow group members.