Growth Group Winter Session 2025

Main takeaway from the Relationships module: In order to cultivate positive relationships, a leader must possess a selfless quality. I will continue to put the needs of Judah first, and remember that it is not about me, but those who I am serving.

Leading with spiritual sensitivity. I agree that it is so important to spend time studying God's word and being prayerful before the growth group meeting.This could help us to be in the right mindset and again to set the atmosphere by inviting the Holy Spirit into our gathering. I also like the idea of spending time thinking of other thought provoking questions for the group. This could help to encourage us all to discuss ways that the word can be applied to our lives.

Relationships Takeaway.People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care, so as a leader we need to know
• How to get along with people
• How to love people unconditionally
• How to help people

• Communication breeds successful marriages and relationships
• Communication is neither good nor bad, rather bad or good communication skills
• To have effective communication we must
o Simplify the message
o Know your audience
o Show the truth

Transferring, interpret ing, receiving information, act of expression

Developing healthy communication
Exchanging ideas thoughts, feeling, creating, understanding and feedback

Effective communication requires knowing my audience and keeping the message that I want to convey, clear and simple. I will continue to get to know current and future members of Judah and continue to ensure that communication is a two way street.

Commitment
• What are you willing to die for
• Find a way to measure your commitment
• Until you become committed to a thing – it will stay a dream
• Commitment turns dreams into reality

Being vested in achieving the vision
To show up and do the job with excellence
When you are committed, you have passion/ desire to see it through without giving up

My takeaway for this teaching is make sure you are all in when taking on an assignment, be commitment to it. Never take on anything that you are not putting your whole heart into.

Application: Serving in this role is not about me and I’m not looking for accolades or praise. This also gives me the opportunity to continue learning, so I can put this information into practice.

Having courage is a majority for one is able to make things right, having perseverance, facing fears and being ready to do what is needed verbally or physically. Don't hesitate to show your thoughts, ideas, talents, etc. for hiding does not show your commitment. As the teaching stated, Say It, Plan It, Do It in a way where others will see your courage and commitment wanting to follow you!

To measure my commitment to the Judah Growth Group, I need to do an evaluation of how much time I spend in preparation and involvement. My commitment level isn't at "worth dying for" level, but I will fight for my group. My commitment is at the "I will throw hands" level.

My takeaway for commitment it must start from the heart, and if your going to take on a task, do it whole heartily, and to be commitment to seeing it though.

• Small Details Matter
Leadership is not just about big actions. Paying attention to the small, everyday details reflects true dedication—remember, God sees it all.
• Measure Your Commitment
• Where do you spend your time?
• Where do you invest your money?
These reveal your true priorities as a leader.
• Tested Through Actions
Your commitment is ultimately proven by what you do, not just what you say or intend.
• Leadership with Integrity
Leading with a heart of service and excellence honors God and inspires those you lead.
“Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23)

• Commitment Starts in the Heart
True commitment begins with an internal decision to dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to your responsibilities and the people you serve.

Being committed means you have an attitude or possess the quality to drive you forward to complete a task. To turn a dream into reality, we must be committed.

We are to stay committed even when times get hard. People will only see some of what you do or sacrifice to stay committed, but God sees all.

There are 3 ways in which we assess our commitment:

1. Measure your commitment (where do you spend most of your time and money?)
2. Ask yourself if your commitment is worth dying for.
3. Make your plans happen by making them public

Commitment turns dreams into reality
God will see the details that others don’t
You won’t achieve anything without commitment
I can apply these takeaways to my role as a GG leader by being dependable, actively
present in GG, being accountable when I am unable to be present, and being on time.
This type of commitment will show that I believe that GG will help us to grow deeper and
closer, through my participation and dedication.

In John Maxwell's "The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader," the chapter on commitment delves deep into what it means to be truly dedicated to a cause, goal, or vision. Maxwell asserts that commitment is the foundation of leadership, as it distinguishes those who merely dream from those who take action to realize those dreams.

Maxwell explains that commitment involves a combination of dedication, resilience, and the willingness to persevere despite obstacles. He uses several examples to illustrate his points, highlighting leaders who have shown extraordinary commitment in their fields. One such example might be that of Winston Churchill, who remained steadfast in his resolve during World War II, inspiring a nation with his determination and unwavering spirit.

A critical takeaway from this chapter is that commitment is not just about the initial burst of enthusiasm but also about the sustained effort over time. Maxwell emphasizes that true leaders are those who stick with their commitments even when the going gets tough. This tenacity and consistency build trust among followers, as they know their leader will not abandon them or the vision in times of hardship.

Maxwell also touches on the idea that commitment is contagious. When a leader shows a high level of commitment, it often inspires the same in others. Followers are more likely to invest their time and energy into a cause if they see their leader doing the same. This mutual commitment can lead to a stronger, more cohesive team that works together to achieve common goals.

Another important aspect discussed in the chapter is that commitment requires sacrifice. Leaders often have to give up their personal comforts and conveniences to stay true to their vision. This might involve working long hours, making tough decisions, or facing criticism and setbacks. However, it is through these sacrifices that leaders prove their dedication and inspire others to do the same.

Maxwell also highlights that commitment is a choice. It is not something that just happens but rather a deliberate decision to stay the course. This choice is often reaffirmed through actions and decisions that align with the leader's values and goals. By consistently choosing commitment, leaders demonstrate their integrity and reliability.

In summary, the chapter on commitment in "The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader" underscores the essential role of dedication and perseverance in effective leadership. Maxwell's insights remind us that commitment is the bedrock of trust and credibility in leadership, and it is this unwavering dedication that separates true leaders from mere dreamers.

Main takeaway from the Commitment module: To measure my commitment to the Judah Growth Group, I need to do an evaluation of how much time I spend in preparation and involvement. My commitment level isn't at "worth dying for" level, but I will fight for my group. My commitment is at the "I will throw hands" level.

Takeaway: committed leaders pay attention to small details that no one will necessarily see because they are doing it as unto God and know that He will see.

Commitment starts with your heart. When it comes to commitment, take a look at your time and money. You must be willing to die to things that may hinder your commitment.

Commitment begins in the heart, and it drives you to complete the assignment/task that you’ve been given. This can be applied in my role as GG Leader by 1) showing up every week, 2) having my homework completed (which is leading by example), and 3) putting time and effort and possibly some money to make sure it’s successful. I have been committed to growth groups since it started and when I was responsible for birthdays, I took it seriously. I coordinated the birthdays and used my personal money to make sure everyone felt special on their day by bringing a cake/edible arrangement and balloons.

My takeaway for this teaching is make sure you are all in when taking on an assignment, be commitment to it.
Never take on anything that you are not putting your whole heart into.

Commitment is all about that inner quality that pushes you to finish what you start. It’s not just talk—it’s proven through your actions. Take Michelangelo, for example. He took on a huge commission from the Pope and stuck with it for four years. He even added those intricate details in the corners of his work, knowing that while most people might not notice, God would. That’s real dedication right there.
At the core, commitment starts in the heart. It’s the driving force that comes before anything else and it opens doors to achieving great things.
To gauge how committed you are, look at how you spend your time and money. For instance, Pastor Wil left his job to follow his calling, showing he was ready to put everything on the line even when things got rough. Staying the course, like Thomas Edison did with the light bulb, often means making a public commitment first. By putting your goals out there, you’re more likely to follow through.
In the end, commitment is essential for success. It’s what turns your dreams into reality and keeps you moving forward, no matter the obstacles. So, whether you’re working on a personal project or a big life goal, remember that true commitment starts from within and is reflected in everything you do.

My major takeaway is, “commitment turns dreams into reality.” To truly achieve our goals (grow deeper/grow closer) as group leaders, we have to be steadfast despite the various challenges that come throughout each semester.

Getting Along with Others: Effective leadership begins with understanding how to relate to and communicate with people. Leaders must be aware of how others think and feel to connect and build trust.
2. Providing Guidance and Direction: People naturally seek direction, and it’s important for leaders to step up and guide them, whether through advice, mentorship, or action.
3. Addressing Needs and Emotional Support: People can be self-focused, but they also experience emotional highs and lows. As a leader, being empathetic and encouraging during difficult moments is key to keeping people motivated.
4. Helping Others Win: True leadership involves lifting others up, helping them achieve success, and celebrating their victories alongside them.
5. Loving People with a Leader’s Heart: A core theme of leadership is love and care for others. You can’t be an effective leader without genuinely loving and valuing the people you lead.

The Relationship recording reminds us that it is important to let others know that we care. Some of the ways that we can do that is by understanding how people feel and by understanding that it is not always about us. Instead we must concentrate on how we can help others. We should show compassion without self-edification. I think practicing these characteristics can be crucial in strengthening growth groups. If we are wanting to build Christ Centered relationships with our growth group members, we must be welcoming and willing to support them during good and challenging times. Some of the ways that our growth group has implemented this is by praying for one another, celebrating other's birthdays and championing others when they have reached special milestones. We also comfort one another through texts and/or phone calls when we know someone has gone or is going through a tough time.

My key takeaways from the training on communication is the following:
Knowing how to get along with people
Effectively speak to people's needs
Develop relationships
Understand how people feel and think
In my role as a GG leader working with the Boys and Girls club, I need to be attentive to
the needs of each child, develop a trusting relationship with them, let them know that I
care about them, and do my best to understand how they think and feel. This
application can help with the children’s engagement in bible study, their desire to
participate, me see them as individuals, and better assist them in their spiritual growth.

Relationships: This training focused on being able to get along with people. I think you need to be friendly and can discern when others may need encouragement. When people feel that you genuinely care and are concerned about them as a person, you will be able to connect with them and relationships can form.

Another key to being successful is getting along with people.

Keys to managing and fostering relationships are:
-Understanding how people feel and think.
-Recognize what people have in common.
-Love people.
-Help people.

We can improve relationships by strengthening our hearts, improving our minds, and repairing any hurting relationships.

Remember, it not about us, but what we can do for others.

In order to cultivate positive relationships, a leader must possess a selfless quality. I will continue to put the needs of Judah first, and remember that it is not about me, but those who I am serving.

Relationships

People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care, so as a leader we need to know
• How to get along with people
• How to love people unconditionally
• How to help people

Facilitating a growth group meeting requires intentionality, engagement, and a balance between structure and flexibility. Here are some key takeaways to ensure a successful and impactful session:

1. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
• Foster a safe and inviting environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
• Begin with a warm greeting, introductions (if necessary), and a short icebreaker to help people feel comfortable.
• Set a tone of openness, respect, and confidentiality.

2. Be Spiritually Prepared
• Pray before the meeting, asking the Holy Spirit for guidance and wisdom.
• Have a clear understanding of the topic or scripture you will be discussing.
• Be ready to redirect the conversation if it veers off track while still allowing the Holy Spirit to move.

3. Facilitate, Don’t Dominate
• Your role is to guide the discussion, not preach or lecture.
• Encourage participation from everyone by asking open-ended questions.
• Practice active listening—acknowledge and validate responses to foster engagement.

4. Ask Thought-Provoking Questions
• Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversation.
• Example: Instead of asking, “Did you like the scripture?” ask, “How does this scripture challenge or encourage you?”
• Give space for different perspectives while keeping the discussion biblically sound.

5. Manage Time Wisely
• Stick to a structured agenda but allow room for organic discussion.
• Keep the group on topic to ensure everyone benefits from the conversation.

6. Encourage Authenticity & Vulnerability
• Lead by example—share personal insights and testimonies while keeping appropriate boundaries.
• Create a judgment-free zone where people feel safe to express their struggles and questions.
• Remind the group that growth happens in honesty and community.

4. Ask Thought-Provoking Questions
• Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper conversation.
• Example: Instead of asking, “Did you like the scripture?” ask, “How does this scripture challenge or encourage you?”
• Give space for different perspectives while keeping the discussion biblically sound.

5. Manage Time Wisely
• Stick to a structured agenda but allow room for organic discussion.
• Keep the group on topic to ensure everyone benefits from the conversation.

6. Encourage Authenticity & Vulnerability
• Lead by example—share personal insights and testimonies while keeping appropriate boundaries.
• Create a judgment-free zone where people feel safe to express their struggles and questions.
• Remind the group that growth happens in honesty and community.

Foster Community & Connection
• Encourage participants to support and pray for one another beyond the meeting.
• Plan occasional social gatherings or outreach activities to strengthen relationships.
• Follow up with members who missed the meeting to show care and inclusivity.

8. End with Application & Prayer

• Summarize the key takeaways and encourage personal application.
• Ask: “What’s one thing you can take from today’s discussion and apply to your life this week?”
• Close in prayer, inviting members to share requests
God Bless

As mentioned in the training (from the 2019 recording) it is definitely important to have obedience and effort to aid us in facilitating a strong and spiritually based growth group meeting. Part of that effort is making sure that I am prepared and able to think of additional thought provoking questions or comments to help myself and others to "bend and stretch". The other part of putting forth effort is to be in prayer about the facilitation of growth groups. Our growth group always opens and ends with prayer which helps to set the atmosphere.

My takeaway from last week's "Facilitating a Growth Group Meeting Training" is to remember that all answers are acceptable. This policy will help everyone to feel comfortable with contributing to the discussion. If answers are different from what we would expect, we could reply that their contribution is interesting or ask another question to guide the answer. Making people feel safe when sharing answers is so important for retention.

My key takeaways from the training on servanthood is the following:
-you don’t have to answer all the questions during group, but each person should
answer all questions in preparation of group.
-You can ask questions that come up from questions as a means of going deeper
-a GG leader is a teacher
I plan to apply the information from this training to my role as a GG leader by not feeling
constrained to time and rushing to get through each question if there is a good
conversation surrounding a question. I will also ask questions that may come up from
the homework while I am completing it as a means of going deeper into the text. I will
also encourage GG members to find time within their week to complete the homework
so they can grow deeper and grow closer and possibly share ways to make getting
homework more achievable.

I need to ensure that I listen to the message from Sunday and prepare follow-up questions that help us explore the topic further. It is important to remain flexible and responsive during the meeting. This can be achieved by actively listening

My key takeaways from the training on servanthood is the following:
True leaders are confident, not self-serving, understand the importance of how they
treat others, serve with love, and an unconditional heart. Good leaders look to fulfill
small acts of service and connect with others.
In my role as a GG leader working with the Boys and Girls club as well as millennials,
connecting with group members and their families, serving them with love, and an
unconditional heart is key to gaining their trust and establishing relationships. Putting
the needs of group members above my own and not being self-serving also allows me
to reflect the character of Christ and be a great role model for group participants. Being
mindful of how I treat others as a leader is very important and a core value because I
don’t want to do any harm to the gospel and hinder anyone from moving forward in
Christ. I will investigate ways I can provide more acts of service to group members.

Application: : Serving in this role is not about me and I’m not looking for accolades or praise. This also gives me the opportunity to continue learning, so I can put this information into practice.

There are many qualities of a good servant such as:
-putting others first
-having the confidence to serve
-understanding that how you treat others reflects how they feel about themselves
-serving without expectation of anything in return
-doesn’t focus on rank or position and serves out of love

Ways to improve Servanthood includes looking to perform small acts of service to your fellow man and do something beneficial for the person you come into contact with.

Servanthood is not about a title, prestige, or self-gratification. It is intentionally having the heart to serve others. In every opportunity given, I will continue to go above and beyond to serve the members of Judah.

Good servant leaders seek to empower others and to meet the needs of others rather than themselves.

Servant leadership prioritizes love over personal glory: Effective leaders are motivated by love and a genuine desire to help others rather than seeking recognition or self-promotion.
• Servanthood is about attitude, not position: Leadership is not defined by rank or status, but by a heart willing to serve others selflessly.
• A good leader serves with confidence: True leaders possess the self-confidence to serve others without fear of losing authority or influence.
• They recognize needs and seize opportunities: Servant leaders are attentive to the needs of others and act when they see opportunities to help or uplift.
• Service is given without expectation: Leaders who serve do so without expecting rewards, recognition, or anything in return.
• Love drives their actions: Their service comes from a place of love, compassion, and a desire to see others succeed.

I believe as the training shows that true servant leadership is putting others needs above your own and not expecting anything in return. When working with the growth group members, it is important to serve the members by making sure that they feel welcome to participate in conversations, making sure that they are included in all channels of communication, and supporting them when they have an area of need (eg. actively listening, praying with them, and giving words of encouragement etc.). We should do this without expecting anything in return.

My takeaway is a true servant leader, serve from the heart, will help other that they serve, don't mind jumping in area that's needed.

Main takeaway from the Servanthood module: Servanthood is not about a title, prestige, or self-gratification. It is intentionally having the heart to serve others. In every opportunity given, I will continue to go above and beyond to serve the members of Judah.

The first chapter of "Sticky Church" delves into the fundamental issue facing many churches today: while attracting new members is often emphasized, retaining members and ensuring they remain engaged is equally crucial. Osborne introduces the concept of the “sticky church,” which prioritizes closing the back door keeping members involved and committed to their faith community—over solely focusing on new attendees.

Osborne argues that the primary way to achieve this “stickiness” is through the implementation of sermon-based small groups. Unlike traditional small groups that may cover various topics, sermon-based small groups focus on discussing and applying the previous weekend’s sermon. This approach has several benefits: it reinforces the pastor’s message, fosters deeper conversations about faith, and creates a sense of continuity and shared purpose among members.

The chapter also highlights the importance of community and relationships within the church. The author notes that people are more likely to stay in a church where they feel connected to others. Sermon-based small groups provide a natural setting for building these relationships, as members meet regularly to discuss their thoughts and experiences related to the sermon.

One of the critical takeaways from this chapter is that growth should not be the sole metric of a church’s success. Instead, Osborne emphasizes the importance of spiritual depth and genuine community engagement. A church that is growing numerically but losing members out the back door is not truly healthy. By focusing on creating an environment where members feel valued, understood, and spiritually nourished, a church can achieve lasting growth and impact.

In summary, the first chapter of "Sticky Church" sets the stage for understanding the importance of member retention through sermon-based small groups. This approach not only reinforces the pastor’s message but also fosters a deeper sense of community and spiritual growth among members. Osborne’s insights challenge churches to rethink their strategies and prioritize creating a “sticky” environment where members are engaged, connected, and committed.

In John Maxwell's "The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader," the chapter on commitment delves deep into what it means to be truly dedicated to a cause, goal, or vision. Maxwell asserts that commitment is the foundation of leadership, as it distinguishes those who merely dream from those who take action to realize those dreams.

Maxwell explains that commitment involves a combination of dedication, resilience, and the willingness to persevere despite obstacles. He uses several examples to illustrate his points, highlighting leaders who have shown extraordinary commitment in their fields. One such example might be that of Winston Churchill, who remained steadfast in his resolve during World War II, inspiring a nation with his determination and unwavering spirit.

A critical takeaway from this chapter is that commitment is not just about the initial burst of enthusiasm but also about the sustained effort over time. Maxwell emphasizes that true leaders are those who stick with their commitments even when the going gets tough. This tenacity and consistency build trust among followers, as they know their leader will not abandon them or the vision in times of hardship.

Maxwell also touches on the idea that commitment is contagious. When a leader shows a high level of commitment, it often inspires the same in others. Followers are more likely to invest their time and energy into a cause if they see their leader doing the same. This mutual commitment can lead to a stronger, more cohesive team that works together to achieve common goals.

Another important aspect discussed in the chapter is that commitment requires sacrifice. Leaders often have to give up their personal comforts and conveniences to stay true to their vision. This might involve working long hours, making tough decisions, or facing criticism and setbacks. However, it is through these sacrifices that leaders prove their dedication and inspire others to do the same.

Maxwell also highlights that commitment is a choice. It is not something that just happens but rather a deliberate decision to stay the course. This choice is often reaffirmed through actions and decisions that align with the leader's values and goals. By consistently choosing commitment, leaders demonstrate their integrity and reliability.

In summary, the chapter on commitment in "The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader" underscores the essential role of dedication and perseverance in effective leadership. Maxwell's insights remind us that commitment is the bedrock of trust and credibility in leadership, and it is this unwavering dedication that separates true leaders from mere dreamers.

In John Maxwell's "The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader," the chapter on communication delves into the vital role that effective communication plays in successful leadership. Maxwell posits that clear, concise, and open communication is the bedrock upon which trust, understanding, and collaboration are built. Without it, leaders cannot effectively connect with their teams, share their vision, or inspire and motivate others.

Maxwell illustrates that communication is more than just speaking or writing; it’s about making meaningful connections. Effective leaders know how to communicate in a way that resonates with their audience, whether they're delivering a speech, sending an email, or having a one-on-one conversation. They understand that their words can inspire action, build relationships, and foster an environment where people feel valued and heard.

One of the key points Maxwell makes is that communication is a two-way street. It's not just about articulating thoughts clearly but also about actively listening to others. Leaders must be approachable and open to feedback, showing empathy and understanding. This creates a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns, knowing that their voices matter.

Maxwell also discusses the importance of consistency in communication. Leaders who communicate consistently build credibility and trust. When messages are clear and consistent, it minimizes confusion and ensures that everyone is on the same page. This is particularly crucial during times of change or crisis, where uncertainty can be mitigated by transparent and regular communication.

Another significant aspect covered in the chapter is the power of storytelling. Maxwell argues that stories can be incredibly powerful tools for leaders. They can illustrate key points, convey values, and inspire action in ways that facts and figures alone cannot. By sharing personal anecdotes or success stories, leaders can make their messages more relatable and memorable.

The chapter also touches on the need for adaptability in communication. Leaders must be able to adjust their communication style to suit different audiences and situations. Whether it's speaking to a large crowd, leading a team meeting, or having a private discussion, effective leaders know how to tailor their message to ensure it is understood and well-received.

In summary, the chapter on communication in The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader emphasizes that effective communication is foundational to leadership. It's about connecting with people, listening actively, being consistent, and using storytelling to inspire and motivate. Leaders who excel in communication are able to build trust, foster collaboration, and create a shared vision that their teams can rally around.

Leading With Spiritual Sensitivity: Leading with spiritual sensitivity requires genuine empathy and compassion. Recognizing and valuing each person’s spiritual beliefs and experiences allows leaders to connect deeply, building trust and creating an inclusive atmosphere.