Discipleship Groups
A primary method of ministry within the lives of believers is through one Christian pouring into, investing, exhorting, and teaching another person, whether believing or not. Oftentimes referred to as discipleship, this ministry task is at the very heart of Jesus’ words in Matthew 28: “...go and make disciples”. Defined simply in his book titled Discipleship, Mark Dever defines discipleship as “doing spiritual good to another person”.
At New City, we believe that discipleship happens in many places, like Sunday Services as we are instructed in God’s word, in Missional Communities as we live life amongst others, and in equipping classes as we are taught through more structured environments.
However, one of the most fruitful places discipleship can happen is within the context of Discipleship Groups as we help others experience gospel transformation in every area of their lives.
What are they?
A discipleship group is a gender-specific group of 3-5 people from different walks of life who meet together every other week for 12-18 months with the goal of gospel transformation.
Although Discipleship Groups are not primarily missional, what they should produce is: Disciples. Those who follow Christ, encourage others to as well. This fruit is produced through consistently walking alongside other Christians, digesting Scripture, applying it to one’s life, and praying for God’s strength as we seek to fulfill the Great Commission.
What do they do?
Each time a Discipleship Group gathers, they primarily walk through three areas:
Accountability - Environment of transparency and vulnerability, sharing highs and lows, challenging one another with Scripture, and following up on prayer requests.
Scripture - Groups will do Bible studies on the same books of the Bible that our Sunday gatherings are focusing on
Prayer - Spending time in intentional intercessory prayer for one another, for non-believing friends and family, and for God’s strength to build His Kingdom.
Although the primary meeting time is when these three areas are accomplished, each discipleship group is not merely a meeting every other week, but a group of friends who live life together. It is encouraged then that Discipleship Groups carry their connection throughout the week, into all of life, where trust-building relationships can be formed.
How can I join one?
Discipleship Groups are launched on a quarterly basis with opportunities for people to signup and get connected. Due to the high level of intentionality, commitment and close shepherding, Discipleship Groups are limited to members in process at New City, and will function as an outflow from the Membership process.
If you are interested in joining a group, the best place to start is by jumping into our Membership Class. If you are already a member at New City and would like to join one, simply click the button below.