The title is catchy but the content is better!
As the title implies, Neighbour points out many of the flaws in the common approaches to small group ministry in the North American church. He believes that the primary reason that group ministries suffer is that the North American culture of consumerism has impacted how we do groups. Christians approach their group involvement with the minsdset of a consumer instead of a disciple whose passion for God is the driving force. Without holding too many punches, he calls the church to both confession and repentance.
Neighbour has a clear bent toward relational and holistic approaches to small group ministry. He points out that “increasing the small group population through a non-relational strategy erodes the values upon which holistic small groups are built.” When churches setup systems to connect people outside of relational connections that exist, they are building inherent weakness into their groups ministry.
There is also a clear expectation on the role of the Lead Pastor in deepening the value of group ministry in the local church. The Lead Pastor is challenged to evaluate the amount of time he spends preparing and delivering his Sunday message vs equipping and releasing others in ministry. The Lead Pastor is more than the primary cheerleader, he is the primary modeler.
One of the many other keys that Neighbour addresses surrounds the ever present group ministry need of group leaders. His answer: more leaders. As in, share the leadership load of the group by building Core Teams that carry the load of leadership.
For those who like to read the ‘how to’ books on group ministry, Neighbour does an excellent job of laying out clear steps on how churches and leaders can make a transition to a more relational and holistic small group ministry. Be warned, however, it will not be easy and it will take some intentional steps and teaching from the pulpit.
The benefits of this group ministry approach will produce disciples who are producing disciples – I would consider that a big time win!
