An Agapé Journeys Ministry

The Heart of the Wesleyan Spiritual Renewal Movement

Biblical small groups living the Gospel.

As Wesley studied the book of Acts, he saw the spreading of the faith happening in the gathering of believers in small groups, usually in their homes.

These new spiritual "families of faith" produced hope filled transformed lives surrounded by a Godly support structure that kept them close to God in contemplative prayer and growing in their faith.

These groups allowed them to live holy lives by sharing their lives in intimate fellowship on a regular basis. Accountable Small groups provided an accountable environment in which seekers could receive support, accountability, and encouragement.

Wesley's development of small groups revolutionized 18th century England and then the whole Christian world by providing a framework to help people grow in a true 'holiness of heart and life.'

From Wesley's point of view, these small groups were especially important considering the temptation of culture to "fall away" and all the social evils that christians were exposed to.

Six Steps to a lasting Accountable Small Group Ministry

1. Start with God's Realm on Earth

3. Listen for the passion and/or concern God puts on your heart.

2. Consider in Prayer what it means to be a "Citizen of Heaven"

This is the heart of the Gospel, the "Good News" of hope and meaning that Christ proclaimed in Mark 1:14-15, Luke, Matthew and John.

God's presence, Emmanuel, has not retreated to a distant place, but now is dwelling with us, "tabernacling" (tenting) in our midst, helping us be more spiritual.

The Resurrection is proof of God's great grace and mercy of this unusual act of love.

(John Wesley: Notes Upon the New Testament: Matthew 3:2).

2. Consider in Prayer what it means to be a "Citizen of Heaven"

3. Listen for the passion and/or concern God puts on your heart.

2. Consider in Prayer what it means to be a "Citizen of Heaven"

An important realization is that in Christ, we begin to experience a heavenly, holy, life of contemplative prayer contemplative'' prayer even here on earth. (Phil 2:30)

God has already created a beautiful, spiritual world that while may not be the "full" heaven to come, is none the less filled with creation, hope and meaning, love and grace.

3. Listen for the passion and/or concern God puts on your heart.

Sit quietly before God.

Work to let God dwell more and more in your heart.

Participate in some "centering" and/or "contemplative'' prayer where you lay aside all the distractions and let the spiritual presence of God dwell in your heart more deeply than ever before.

4. Gather others who share that passion and/or concern

6. Plan action to initiate a Small Group ministry that incorporates that passion/concern (and others

3. Listen for the passion and/or concern God puts on your heart.

There are others who share your passions and concerns. God has been working in their hearts to prepare them for this time.

5. Pray together for God's insight and wisdom into that passion/concern.

6. Plan action to initiate a Small Group ministry that incorporates that passion/concern (and others

As part of laying the foundation for a great small group, sit in silence with others as you prayer together, explore appropriate scripture together and listen together for how God is directing you in this time together.

6. Plan action to initiate a Small Group ministry that incorporates that passion/concern (and others

Study carefully what it means to be a small group and also have various small groups around your congregation.

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