Groups meet in Various Locations

and at Various Times!

OPEN TO EVERYONE !

• Youth Group meets each Wednesday at 7 PM, normally in the teen room at the church, sometimes in homes or at social function meeting sites
• College and Career Group meets each Wednesday at 7 PM in the church Library
• Couples Fellowship meets normally in homes of members or leaders of the group - check for specific days of week and times
• Couples with Young Children Fellowship meets normally in homes of members or leaders of the group - check for specific days of week and times.
• Womens Bible Study Group meets normally at the church on Wednesdays from 9 am 'til Noon and child care is provided

Adult Special Focus Felowships
Currently there are several adult groups meeting.
One group meets in various homes and is currently studying Heaven.

• Other groups meet at the church building or in various homes and study topics relevant to Christian growth and discipleship.

YOU CAN JOIN ANYTIME! 

“Life Change Happens Best In Small Groups”

...is one of our key focuses at Bethany Bible Church. Our entire ministry is about leading people to a life of faith in Christ... and then on the journey to full devotion, one life at a time. This is exactly what occurs in our Small Groups. In this group of a few individuals, you will discover the excitement of true Christianity as you study the Bible together, pray together and develop true friendships.

Home Fellowships meet on various evenings and the location can vary from the church buildings to neighborhood homes.  There are many advantages of being a part of a small group and here are eight compelling reasons why you need to be a part of one. If you are not participating in a group, why not join one?

 Call the church office at (734) 697-7456

Email: jerry@churchone.org

The 8 Benefits of a Small Group

1. You will understand the Bible better in a small group.

If you've ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and wanted to stop that person and say, "But what about...?" or "I don't understand!" then a Small Group is for you! Preaching and teaching is one-way communication - you listen while the speaker speaks. It's fine for imparting knowledge but not as effective for personal application as in a Small Group. In a Small Group setting, you can ask questions, participate in a discussion of the text and hear others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own personal life situations and that happens best in Small Groups.

2. You will begin to really feel like a part of God's family.

Most people who have been a part of a group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently telephone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer. You'll discover that your needs and problems are not unique - we're all in the same boat. It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process.

Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase "one another" is used to describe our relationship to other believers. We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another's burdens, and build up one another. The only way you can obey these commands is in a Small Group! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life.

3. Prayer will become more meaningful to you.

Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group of 8-12, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you'll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together, and we find answers to the needs in our lives.

4. You will be able to handle stress and pressure better.

Small groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You'll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you.

When someone loses a job, a mother needs a baby-sitter, or a family member has an extended illness—there are practical needs that will be naturally taken care of through your Small Group.  Many people involved in groups could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn't been for the support or their group.

5. You will have a natural way to share Christ with unbelieving friends, relatives, and work associates.

It may be that some of your friends who don't know the Lord wouldn't be caught dead in a church. They have a preconceived idea and just the thought makes them defensive. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual Bible discussion in a home or other setting. In a Small Group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling "put on the spot." When your friend sees the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him or her more receptive to the Good News.

6. You may develop leadership skills you never knew you had!

The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or "gifts" to benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately, many Christians remain as Sunday morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily "sit and listen" situations and some never get beyond that.  As you share and participate in a relaxed setting, you'll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising. This will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.

7. You will deepen your understanding of worship.

Many believers mistakenly believe that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a choir, and an offering plate! Worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group in praying or singing together.

8. You will be a New Testament Christian!

The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for His people to grow and have their needs met in the church. We will never be able to hire enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family. God never intended for it to be that way!