Why Small Groups?

Although Parkside Church is growing larger every year, those who are involved in one of our many small groups enjoy the feeling of being part of a "small church family." It is not only an excellent opportunity to "get connected" with the Parkside Church family, but more important, to grow closer to Jesus Christ.

In a Parkside Church small group, you will quickly get acquainted and have the opportunity to develop close friendships and lasting relationships among other Christians in a safe, trusting environment. You will soon feel even more of a "part of the church family" and "at home" when attending worship services and other functions at Parkside Church.

About Parkside Small Groups

Our small groups usually consist of four to twelve people who meet two to four times a month, either in homes or at church, to ask questions, study God's Word, and talk about spiritual issues. These smaller size groups provide an inviting and comfortable environment where you can find friendship, encouragement, mentoring, caring and a sense of belonging. There is a wide variety of small groups, including men's, women's, couples', single parents', college and career and more. Small groups are designed to more quickly "connect" people as part of the church family as well as helping them to grow in Christlikeness and equipping them to serve as the Holy Spirit leads.

Much of the focus is on Bible study as the members work together to gain a greater knowledge of the Living God. An important part of this involves taking time to consider biblical passages and how they can be applied to our everyday lives and situations. Active concern and prayer for others is also an essential part of our small group sessions. Small groups can also have occasional opportunities to provide loving service and outreach to others in their group, the church family and the community. Most small groups also provide time for social fellowship and refreshments.

Reason #1: You will really begin to feel like a part of God's family

Maybe you have made the comment yourself, "This church is too big to really get to know other people." We really do need each other?God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. You need to get connected in a small group.

Reason #2: You will understand God's Word better

Have you ever had those times when you just wanted to stop the pastor in the middle of the sermon and say "But what about .?" . In a small group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion of the text, and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own personal situations and that happens best in small groups.

Reason #3: Prayer will become more meaningful to you

Small group members have a unique opportunity to experience God's promised power in prayer as they pray together about their struggles and joys. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn closer, and we are encouraged as we see God's answers in each other's lives.

Reason #4: You will have a safety net when you need it

Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You'll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you.

Reason #5: You will have an informal, non-threatening way to share Christ

It may be that some of your friends who don't I know the Lord wouldn't be caught dead in a church. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home or office setting. In a small group, your friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot". When your friend sees the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him more receptive to the Good News.

Reason #6: You will learn how to serve and be served

The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or "gifts" to benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately most Christians remain as Sunday morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily "sit and listen" situations. Small groups are a training ground for service. You'll have opportunities to carry out God's call to service, first within the group itself and then in the larger ministry of the church. And you'll also learn that sometimes God supplies your own needs by having others serve you.

Reason #7: You will become the person Christ intends you to be

When the first Christians began to meet, they met in small groups held in people's homes. Such groups continue to provide the ideal setting for people to become fully devoted followers of Christ.