As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Proverbs 27:17
A homegroup is a subset of the church, this means each homegroup operates under the church's doctrinal statement, sharing and working toward the bigger purpose, core objectives, vision goals, and strategies of the church. A homegroup is a basic Christian community of Jesus followers, doing the Christian life deeply together.
Belief
We believe small groups play a vital role in the life of a church. The birth of the church began from small groups (Acts 2:46). Thus small groups summarized by one word: relationship!
This relationship has aspects to it. A vertical relationship and horizontal relationship. To achieve a horizontal relationship (relationship with other Christians), a vertical relationship (our relationship with God) needs to be established first (1 John 1:1-3). Our horizontal relationship with God is restored through the cross. God made Christ who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). Through the cross, we are made right before God. A verse before a plea was made: "We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20). When our relationship with God is restored, our relationship with others follows. Thus, we believe focusing on these two relationships (Matthew 22:36-40).
Focus
Respecting age and different spiritual levels of growth, each leader approaches their group differently. The message never changes. Approach to an individual does. We approach a child differently than when we approach a senior. Youth would incorporate activities and games. Some groups focus more on outreach, and some groups focus on certain topics (like parenting). Jesus fulfills our needs, and he does that on every level of our human growth through the study of His word (Ephesians 4:14). Thus no matter what age or spiritual level of an individual, everyone can find a place where they connect.
Growth
The concept of a home group is simple: those who grew in certain areas can help those who didn't. "Iron sharpens iron so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 22:17). The sharpening deals with our faith in God. Hebrews 3:13 - "But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called 'Today,' so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” Small group creates a place where hurt can be understood. Where people pray for one another. So no matter where we are spiritually, others can help us grow closer to God; a small group is a place for growth!"
