Small Group Participant's Guideline The Goal: To "live out" personal Christian discipleship and community as commanded and modeled in the New Testament." Scripture Base: Matthew 28: 19,20; Acts 2:46 The New Testament and first century church provides many examples of how authentic faith and obedience to God develops best when we live our lives in small group community with other believers of like mind. Church services, ministries and other large events are great for many purposes of the church (e.g., Worship, Outreach, and Ministry) but Fellowship, Discipleship and spiritual care is best provided in well led groups. It is the goal of New Song that each member experiences spiritual growth and care through at least one of the following types of groups (in order of priority): The Home Group The HG is the primary group emphasized at New Song. It is the place where spiritual care, encouragement and prayer for people and their households best happens. HGs are generally located in strategic locations throughout the community so members can build ongoing relationships easier. The HG is led by a leader and assistant that aims to meet the elder qualifications (1Tim 3:8-13), regularly meets for leadership development and participates in GCLI. It is recommended that the HGs meet at least once a month as whole families and households come together for fellowship, sharing of the Bible, prayer and communion. It is also the desire that people within a HG view their HG leader as their "first line" of spiritual care and shepherding. As the church grows in numbers, the multiplications of HGs and leaders will be the best way to provide quality discipleship and care. Discipleship Groups The DG format has been used for years at New Song. DGs tend to be same-sex groups that preferably meet once a week for fellowship, discipleship and accountability. The recommended structure is to follow the WWW (Word, Walk and Witness) format with a reading plan; Life Now study booklets or Discipleship Defined Cards. Many DGs also study a particular subject, need or book together. DG leaders must have a DG plan and are coached by a HG leader or elder. They regularly meet with other leaders for development and support. DGs do not have to meet in the same HGs, but it may be advantageous to do so. Participant's Expectations 1. Commit to making your HG and DG a priority in your life. 2. Email the church when you officially join or leave your group (office@inewsong.com). 3. Look to your HG leader and assistant for prayer and spiritual care and support. 4. Contribute to your group on a regular basis through faithful attendance, prayer, care and sharing God's Word.

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