Leading Small Groups

"Leading Small Groups:

How to Gather, Launch, Lead, and

Multiply Your Small Group"

By Chris Surratt

Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt is a short volume with practical advice for forming and maintaining small groups. It answers questions such as, "what is a small group leader?" and how to recruit, start and lead a small group. It is intended for the leader of a small group.

Here is my honest opinion about this book. There are too many books on this subject already, but I decided to give a try (although I have already read my fair share of books on this subject). I have led small groups before and have learned through lots of trial and error. Many of the points discussed here, I have learned through experience. While I appreciate the intent behind this book, I didn't get much from it or found anything groundbreaking. I also did not like the fact that this book came across as a self-help book. There are too many human strategies discussed here as though, small groups grow from human effort and not by allowing God to take control. Of course, there has to be some structure but the foundation of it should rest upon allowing God to move within the group instead of trying to manipulate it. However, I do appreciate the small nuggets of truth here and there.

I received a copy of this book from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Comments

Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?

Since tomorrow is Halloween I decided to do some research and write a little about the origins and symbols of this holiday. I also wanted to pose the question, “Should Christians celebrate Halloween?” This may seem like a no-brainer to the average Christian, but more and more, the church is embracing the world and /or watering down and sugar-coating the truth so as to not offend anyone. Something that is becoming more prevalent in American churches is the “fall festival/harvest” which is just a synonym for Halloween. It does not matter that kids are not in costume, the mere fact that an activity is done in place of, is enough to partake in it. Hence, I felt compelled to touch upon this topic and pray that believers may come to the light and stop offending God. This is what I found out about Halloween… check it out. What Does the Bible Say? Halloween is a holiday of death not just because of the costumes, macabre theme or movies but because of its meaning (more on that...

Young Women Love God Greatly Bible (NET)

"Young Women Love God Greatly Bible (NET)" by Thomas Nelson This is my first time reading the NET and the “Love God Greatly” ministry. Let me preface this review by saying that I’m almost strictly KJV only but sometimes I like to look up certain passages in other versions to compare the text. I was impressed with the wording after reading a little through the NET. The NET contains many translation notes explaining why some words or verses were omitted, so I appreciate that. I still prefer the KJV but the NET is very understandable, albeit, very different from what I’m used to. About this bible, be prepared to receive a BIG chunky tome. I personally like personal-size Bibles but also enjoy having chunkers as well. This also means that it is jammed-packed with extra stuff. Features Book introductions & memory verses for each book of the Bible 50 reading plans for reading through Scripture using the SOAP method 10 topical reading plans about life’s issues, such as fe...

Knowing Sin

"Knowing Sin: Seeing a Neglected Doctrine Through the Eyes of the Puritans" by Mark Jones If you're a fan of the Puritans this one will be a great read for you. Not many books are written about sin, this is one of a kind. This is a well-rounded anthology on harmatiology (the study of sin). The author uses pieces and teachings from several Puritans to introduce each chapter and then goes into detailed discussions. The book covers every area of sin you can think of; the origins, selfishness, envy, privation of sin, sorrow, manipulation, temptations, etc. I found the material biblically sound and very well-written. This is probably the best book I've read on sin. The author makes reference to theologians, ministers, preachers, and Biblical stories to draw his points. This book helps you analyze how you handle sin and to identify the root problems. I would highly recommend! I received a copy of this book from Moody in exchange for an honest review. All opinions express...

The Scribe's Portion

Search This Blog