Design Is Almost Everything

Like most discussions, there’s more than one way to look at things. In my experience though, when you’re talking about a small group ministry that succeeds, it’s almost always about design.

You might want to argue already, but before you do…let me give you a few things to think about.

First of all, I love this Andy Stanley line:

Your ministry is perfectly designed to produce the results you’re currently experiencing.

Like what you’re experiencing? Keep doing what you’re doing. Don’t like it? Want different results? Change the design.

Second, design is a much more inclusive term than you might think.. For example, it’s not as simple as choosing between several small group models or systems. While that plays a part in design, can you see how your senior pastor’s engagement also plays a design role? How about whether you’ve chosen a full menu or a plated meal approach?

Third, I’m not discounting the impact of culture or heart attitudes. They certainly play a role. It’s just that design should be about taking the raw product, the come as you are product of the culture, and developing the kinds of heart attitudes that have impact on the culture.

It’s all about design. I hope you can see it. It’s such an important understanding. It absolutely determines the results you’re currently experiencing.