My takeaways from Creating Community (Andy Stanley)

My takeaways from Creating Community (Andy Stanley)

• We must push people to get in groups. The alternative is "disconnected, isolated, lonely people…not a viable option."
• Group experiences across the church need to be predictable – not in boring but in what their purpose is, how they will meet, etc.
• Clarify the "wins" for groups
• Strive for 100% participation
• There are easily identifiable levels of relationship in a church.
• Stanley uses the metaphor of a foyer (guest), living room (friend), to kitchen (family) to identify the different levels.
• Our opportunity as the church is to help people discover the power of each relationship in community.
• We must be directional about helping bridge each gap. What is a specific step that will help them make the jump?
• Good intention is not enough.
• Be honest with people up front as to what groups are NOT about: i.e. not a social club, meditation group, support group, or an expert group.
• The primary purpose of groups is simple: social fellowship, Bible study, and prayer.
• Through implementing a process to the groups system, Stanley's church has seen 90% involvement in small groups.