Discipleship Focus on Groups
Read through this excerpt from Matthew 18:15-20 in the context of a MG (micro-group) of Jesus followers?
Matthew 18:15-20
“If your brother sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.
“Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
~ Jesus
Pondering Point
This section of the Bible acknowledges that MGs (any group) can be built around God and yet be unhealthy. Personal offenses or festering issues can pull groups away from a God-centered focus. So can whining, personal agendas, or gossip. Matthew 18 offers a recipe for returning groups to powerful, Christ-centered gatherings. End by praying for God’s insight over the place of MGs in your life.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You have highlighted a great blessing when even 2 or 3 people come together in agreement about something. I want more of this blessing in my life. Help me to cultivate this in several of my current MG relationships -- and even start a few if that is Your desire. In Your name Jesus I pray. Amen.
Things to appreciate about Micro-Groups and Small-Groups (MG/SG) from the life of Jesus
- Jesus finds value in both Small Groups and Micro Groups and participated in both. So can you.
- Jesus lived more deeply connected with some families and individuals than others. So can you.
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