Clearly Defined Purpose

One of the things that can help a group develop in a healthy fashion is a clearly defined purpose. It is important during the first couple of meetings of a group’s life and during transition points that the purpose of the group is stated often. This purpose needs to be presented in a clear and concise way.

You may want to say something like, “Thank you again for coming today. Before we get into our study, I wanted to remind us that as we meet over the next three months we hope to grow in our understanding the grace we have through Christ.”

You notice that the statement has a couple of key components. First, it has a timeframe (three months). Second, it has clearly described the focus of the time (understanding of the grace we have through Christ). This will help to focus the group’s attention and expectations for the time. This can also then be used to encourage discussion on the topic while limiting unhelpful side discussions.