Adult Groups

Most of our groups meet weekly on Sunday evenings from 5:00-7:00 p.m. both on and off campus. Off-campus groups usually meet two to three times a month (or more) for Bible study. These meetings are two hours long and often include a snack, meal, or fellowship time. However, we encourage groups to do life together through other events such as dinner nights, park visits, coffee, and gathering as family, not just as a church activity. The biblical community that is built in a group can be life changing. Some groups also have a monthly or quarterly project in which they serve together.

On-campus childcare is offered via our Kids Ministry programs from 4:45-7:00 p.m. for groups that meet on Sundays. Your children attend their Sunday night programs during the same time you go to group. You simply have to RSVP for childcare by Thursday each week by emailing [email protected] with the names and birthdates of your kids.

Right now, we are on a small group rotation schedule to serve in the Sunday night Kids Ministry. This is a way for all adult groups to serve one another as each of us takes our turn serving, loving, and discipling the kids on Sunday nights. Each child is “our” child collectively because they are in our church, whether they belong to us biologically or not. They are our spiritual children, and we must assume the responsibility to serve the next generation and point them toward Jesus.

Most groups do not have homework from a book. There may be suggested daily devotionals or weekly considerations or challenges meant to compare to your life and shape it biblically. However, some groups will read a book together then meet to discuss it.

Groups are like family — sometimes you talk, sometimes you listen. Your participation in the conversation during group time is up to you. We are all at a different place and move at a different pace on our spiritual journey.

No. Again, you can move and grow at your own pace. If the time comes in your life where you feel you need to voice a prayer request, that will be well received. If the time comes you would like to lead in prayer, that will also be well received.

Groups are formed by the leader, neighbors, or acquaintances. Groups are also formed at Group Connect. Offered periodically throughout the year at the Nolensville campus for those interested in joining a group, this event gives them a chance to meet and chat with several group leaders. At Group Connect, you may agree to try a group for a couple of weeks. Each person can choose to continue with the group or search for another group. This allows you a way to try out a few groups without pressure to stay with any specific one.

Groups are about building biblical community and learning the Bible, not debating it or being tested on it. Groups grow, care, and equip each other to be more like Christ day by day. Wanting to know more about the Bible is one key reason you would want to be in a small group.

Groups are like family. Some of them continue for several years, while others may see the opportunity to multiply and start a new group after a short time.

Yes, though most people build such community that they do not want to stop being part of the group. However, if you need to discuss an issue or options for choosing a new group, please contact our Groups Minister Jay Fennell at [email protected].

Groups meet for a few hours, which includes social and fellowship time meant for building community. This allows for a time designated to Bible study where the group learns and discusses the material and Scripture that has been previously agreed upon. There is always time for prayer and sharing of life issues where others in your group can help you walk through life with assurance that you are not alone.