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Connecting - we call this first biblical purpose "Connecting with God's Family." Also called "fellowship." Spiritual growth hinges upon a believer being connected to both God and his family. As it relates to small group ministry, we believe that members need to grow in their sense of belonging with others in the fellowship. The fellowship must truly become family, authentic in relationships and support for one another.

Growing - we use the phrase "Growing to Be Like Christ" to capture the essence of this purpose. Another word is good, old fashioned discipleship. For that to happen, people must grapple with the truths of Scripture. They must see how the Gospel makes a difference in their lives. It must lead to life change. Spiritual partnering is a fresh way to form accountability partners for discipleship. Fellowship members can cultivate a closer walk with God by simply discovering the "power of pairs."

Developing - in context "Developing Yourself to Serve Others" is about using your gifts to unleash others for ministry. Others need to know how God has uniquely shaped you for ministry and when the Holy Spirit transforms the heart of a seeker, he or she receives a capacity to serve others. This is to help others identify their unique shape for ministry—and release them for service.

Sharing -  to encourage others by "Sharing Your Life Mission". Sometimes it's simply prayer for a friend,.other times it might be encouraging a fellowship member to bring over a meal to a neighbor who is going through a divorce, sickness or hard time. God calls all of us to reach out a hand to one another. It means to rejoice with those that rejoice and mourn with those who mourn, and to make sure that nobody lacks anything. 

Surrendering - drawing closer to God by "Surrendering Your Life for God's Purpose" is one of the most powerful ways to help others to open their hearts, by opening their palms and lifting them toward the heavens. A surrendered heart of worship pleases God most and focuses us upward in praise and thanksgiving to God the creator and sustainer of life.  ----