DISCOVER GROUPS
WHY, START, GROW, MULTIPLY
WHY DISCOVER - Jesus called us out of isolation into relationship. Participate in a local gathering of men with regular frequency, and strive for sensitivity to the gospel, to the Word of God, and the Spirit of God, a safe place for humility, honesty, healing in body, soul and spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Expect this fellowship to be messy since losing our sin and self-centeredness is messy but such is the process of becoming spiritual sons and spiritual fathers that reflect the manhood of Christ. Men who communicate, confess, care and are involved, consider their self-management and seek to improve. Show radical acceptance and kindness to your BROTHER where scripture allows so godly repentance led by the Spirit has a place to grow. Discover groups.
START - Always keep ("the end") the vision of multiplication in mind. This group isn't for comfort but for growth. Was Jesus leading the 12 into complacency or expanding their knowledge of God and his kingdom, his love, in dependence on the Father, in suffering and reward? Be clear on the intent. God made men for relationships, for character, for stewardship, for fruit, for building and multiplying, and it comes at a cost! Christ died so I might live. I must die so that joy can be discovered, and so they might live. Recommended: Discover 2 or more brothers meeting weekly, preferably a circle (12 or less).
GROW - Keep praying, keep investing, keep inviting. Good and faithful wins the race. The goodness and faithfulness of Christ won our forgiveness and freedom. Trust God's will and timing but don't define it.
MULTIPLY - Prayerfully identify when the group has increased and matured enough to split off to reach more men that they might have a larger vision for their identity, mission and growth. Seek and save that which is lost. God is healing and maturing what is needed in us, how much more are men detached from the hope and voice of their Father calling them to sonship, honor and greatness. Instead, the voice of ego and the liar is guiding their steps towards sin and death.