People responsible for developing the small group ministry of a local church are often overwhelmed by the multitude of different resources available. At one national conference, more than thirty-six models and hundreds of resource materials were offered. By midweek many individuals were dazed from trying to sort through the information.

To provide a framework within which to develop a small group ministry and decide on resource materials, ask the for what? questions. For example, ask yourself, "Small groups, for what? To nurture people? Nurture them, for what? Spiritual growth? Spiritual growth, for what?" Unless you know the for what? of your ministry you will be constantly tossed around by the latest innovative ideas, unable to anchor your ministry in the reality of your purpose.

When asked, most pastors and small group leaders have concluded that the purpose behind their small group ministries is to develop individuals who (1) have a personal relationship with God and (2) have assumed the responsibility of representing Christ in their environment.

The model below describes the framework The Navigators' Church Discipleship Ministries have developed for small group ministry. It identifies five kinds of small groups and their overall purpose.

Entry level groups attract and communicate the gospel to nonChristians and the unchurched.

Issue or need-oriented groups deal with specific areas of life (grief recovery, codependency, mothers of preschoolers) in order to prevent future problems or restore spiritual health.

Discipleship training groups, such as The 2:7 Series, enable members to grow in an environment of support and accountability, maintain spiritual disciplines, minister to others in evangelism and nurture, and ascertain future arenas of ministry in light of their gifts.

Discipleship stimulation groups are usually short-term; these groups both encourage members to continue to develop their spiritual disciplines and challenge them to pursue further training.

Support groups are usually ongoing and provide spiritual stimulation, support, and accountability for people who complete basic discipleship training and are involved in active ministry.

The Purpose underlying each kind of small group is to develop healthy individuals who have a personal relationship with God through Christ and represent Him to others.