12 SIMPLE SMALL GROUP GUIDELINES   

 

 

We aim to have a small group with healthy, clear guidelines from which to operate. The goal is to establish an environment that is safe for transparency, vulnerability, sharing and growing closer in relationship with each other and with God.  

 

SAFE GROUP: 

We will strive to create an environment where everyone can be real, open, and honest with their struggles and victories. 

  

CONFIDENTIALITY: 

What is said in the group stays in the group. 

  

LISTEN: 

Let’s value one another during the discussions by really listening to what is being shared. Try to avoid thinking about how you are going to respond, or what you are going to say next. 

  

PAUSE: 

Allow a pause in conversation after someone shares. Give the person sharing the chance to finish and the group the opportunity to consider what was just shared before responding. 

  

SILENCE: 

It is important to allow silence in the group as it provides an opportunity for someone to share and for members in the group to process the topic or question being considered. Be ok with silence. 

  

AVOID “CROSS TALK”: 

Be considerate of others as they are sharing. No side conversations. 

  

AVOID FIXING: 

We are not here to fix each other. Jesus does that part. Give encouragement; speak truth, and point to Jesus. Don’t try to solve or fix each other. 

 

NO RESCUING: 

When people are sharing something deeply personal, there can be a tendency to try to make them feel better about themselves or the situation by providing immediate condolences. This will often cause them to stop sharing. Resist the temptation to rescue people. 

  

SHARING: 

Be sensitive about the amount of time you share. 

  

BE SELF-AWARE: 

Be self-aware of how you are personally affecting the environment through your words, actions and non-verbal communication. 

  

USE “I” STATEMENTS: 

It’s easy to talk about the issues of others, but for our purposes, we want you to put yourself on the table. Try to use “I” statements rather than “them”, “the church”, “us”, “we”, etc. 

  

CONFLICT: 

We will commit to resolve conflict biblically. When conflict or sin issues between group members arise, we want to make sure that we are honoring God and each other in the way we deal with these issues. 

 

COMMUNICATION: 

We live in a time when staying connected is easier than ever, yet sometimes, by choice (or by our busyness), we go silent. Out of courtesy, let's agree to check emails and texts and respond in a timely manner, especially if the communication is time sensitive. 

 

NO POLITICS ZONE: 

Discussing politics during a Rooted session (opinions on elected officials, candidates or issues) is strictly prohibited. 

The following are a few key Scriptures in this regard  (there are many others). 

  • If someone sins against you (Matthew 18:15-20) 

  • Restoring someone in sin (Galatians 6:1-5) 

  • Forgive a sinner (Colossians 3:12-13) 

  • Reconciling differences (Matthew 5:23-24, Matthew 7:1-5)