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3 Steps to Choosing Small Group Curriculum

Sometimes groups have a hard time deciding what to do next. Either they've finished a study or are starting a new year, and no one seems to know what to do in during their time together. Here is a suggested process for determining what to study:

Most groups spend a large amount of their time studying or discussing a particular topic or Bible passage. While your launch team can make determinations ahead of time regarding the focus of the group’s focus, you can also allow the group to make that decision. A good time to have this group discussion is after the spiritual formation survey has been completed.

Process for Choosing a Study
1. Discuss potential study formats and topics with either your LIFEGroup. 
  • Possible Study Topics 
    • Individual Books of the Bible
    • Strengthening your relationship with God 
    • Discovering giftedness
    • Sharing your faith
    • Applying Sunday’s sermon 
  • Possible Study Formats 
    • Video-based Curriculum
    • Video-based Curriculum with Homework
    • Discussion Guide
    • Discussion Guide with Homework
    • Book Study 
    • Leader Driven Study (no guide, the discussion leader creates the material himself)
2. Determine which study you desire to do.
  • Sometimes it's easier to narrow down the choices. Use the following choices to reach agreement:
    • Do we want to use the "sermon questions" or find our own thing?
    • Do we want to do a video study (usually includes someone teaching) or do our own discussions?
    • Do we want to do a topical study, a book study, or a Bible study?
      • If we do a book study, is everyone committed to doing the reading?
      • If we do a topical study, will we use curriculum or will one person guide our discussions?
      • If we do a Bible study:
        • What book/passage/section?
        • Do we want to use a study guide or just read and discuss?

3. If appropriate, determine whether or not all members of your group can cover the financial costs required for your chosen study. If necessary, share resources to make sure everyone can participate.

More ideas, processes, and resources like this one are available in our Small Group Leader's Guide entitled: Everything You Need to Know About LIFEgroups. (click here to read it)

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