Student Ministry
Next Level Student Groups
4:06 PM
A few years ago I entered into an awesome adventure. I began
to process how to do student ministry in a way that I had not see it done yet.
Little did I know that I hadn’t seen it done this way because I wasn’t paying
attention. It was already being done and had proven to be very successful.
It was the idea that you could do a service and engage
students in small group on the same night. I know, I know. Your mind is blown.
A little over 3 years ago I started making this a reality in
my ministry. It has been more successful than I can really express. I love the
idea of taking students and allowing other voices in their lives! Other people
that can invest in them, push them, and love on them. Small group Leaders give
every student someone to pastor them.
Over the time I have been a part of this I have noticed a
few things. I have noticed that there are some things that set some leaders
apart. Their groups dig in a deeper. They grow. A lot more students become
inviters. There is a lot more consistency.
At oneChurch.tv I am truly blessed to work with the best
student team I have ever had. They are incredible. And even in this
circumstance there are a few things that set some apart.
Here are 4 things!
You First – This
one is first on purpose. The best leaders I see have a real and obvious relationship
with Jesus. They prioritize their own relationship with Jesus over everything. Leading
an effective small group comes from the overflow of your own time with God. If
you aren’t growing here it is very unlikely that you will be able to lead
others this way.
Patience - We are
a part of the microwave generation! Leaders want to succeed and they want to
succeed immediately. The best group leaders I have seen have an amount of
patience. They understand relationships cannot be forced, but they have to
happen a little more naturally. They give students time to get to know them and
each other better before pushing too hard or giving up! It’s a marathon not a
sprint.
Go - There is
something about going and meeting them on their turf that changes everything.
Going to Football games and Theater performances. Whatever it takes to show
your support for them. It says something to them about how you will be there
for them. You not only available one night a week but you are there for the
long haul. Changing the dynamic of place cannot be overestimated!
YOU – Just be
yourself. Don’t over think it. Don’t try to be too cool. Just be comfortable
with who you are. Be comfortable with saying “I don’t know”! Creating an environment
of openness will start with you. That means you will have to be ok with what
you have to offer. Every group leader affects students differently. Know that
God made you to impact them in a specific way and embrace that.
Those are the ones I have seen! What would you add to my
list??
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