Adult Discipleship Training for Small Group leaders and Sunday School teachers

In this first session of Adult Discipleship Training, geared towards Small Group Leaders and Sunday School Teachers, participants delve into the process of guiding adults through discipleship, drawing parallels from Jesus' model with the 12 disciples. Exploring phases such as "Call," "Awareness," "Acceptance," "Independence," and "Reproduce," attendees reflect on their own growth in Christ and the significance of ongoing discipleship. Further study resources are recommended for deeper understanding of these discipleship stages.

In Session 2, participants explore the significance of community in discipleship, reflecting on the divine model of perfect community within the Trinity. Addressing barriers like individualism and expectations, attendees discover opportunities to cultivate genuine Christian community, drawing insights from Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Henri Nouwen. Through this session, the call to discipleship is framed as a call to embrace and nurture meaningful Christian fellowship.

In Session 3, participants delve into understanding small group systems, exploring the intricate dynamics and components that shape group interactions. Through an analysis of inputs, throughputs, outputs, and environment, attendees gain insights into the complexities of small group dynamics, enabling them to identify opportunities for growth and address potential barriers within their groups.

Explore the life cycle of a small group in this session, from its orientation phase through exploration, power/control, emergence, and change. Discover how introducing change prompts a return to the initial phase and celebrate achievements as the group concludes. Delve deeper into the stages with insights from Julie Gorman's book, "Community That Is Christian."

Discover effective teaching methods tailored for adult learners through the four-step teaching pattern HOOK, BOOK, LOOK, TOOK. Engage participants with thought-provoking activities and discussions, emphasizing real-life application of biblical texts such as the Parable of the Good Samaritan and passages like Romans 1:18-32. Equip yourself with valuable resources for effective teaching and Bible study.

Master the art of leading discussions and managing group dynamics by learning effective strategies such as planning, facilitating, and concluding discussions while encouraging participation from all members. Explore the diverse roles individuals play in groups, from positive contributors like initiators and encouragers to challenging personalities such as dominators and spiritualizers. Gain insights into fostering a collaborative and respectful group environment with practical guidance from How to Lead Small Groups by Neal McBride.