I led my first small group in 1983 and was coaching my first network of small group leaders in 1984. Over the last 30 years I’ve tried just about every system and experimented with so many different ideas I’ve actually been called a “mad scientist.” And while I’m glad I’ve had the experience, there…

One of the most important developments in our culture is the dramatic rise in the percentage of people who claim no religion at all.  A 2012 Pew Forum study titled “Nones on the Rise” indicates that one in five Americans (19.3%) claim no religious identity at all (up from 15% in 2008 and 8% in 1990). One…

I’ve written several times in the past about clarifying the win for your small group ministry.  It’s an important concept and it’s an essential strategic step.  Peter Drucker referred to this concept in his question, “What are you going to call success.”  I listed it as the third thing I’d do if I was starting…

“A small group provides the optimal environment for the life-change Jesus intends for every believer.” This was one of 5 core assumptions that were embedded in Willow Creek’s small group ministry strategy in the 90s. Was it true? Is it true? I believe it was and is true but I also believe that in order…

Language is important.  Without a common language, the massive project known as the Tower of Babel came to an abrupt halt. It occurs to me that we in groupland often struggle to understand a model or system, a concept or a strategy because we are hearing and seeing through the filter of our own experiences.…