NORTHFIELD CHURCH
To Bootle and Beyond
This was sent to the Church members to explain Community Groups. Coming early 2012.
Whats the vision?
Community is at the heart of Gods plan for us, the body of Christ. As Christians not only have we been invited into community with God but we're called into community with each other. Community encourages the santification and growth of a believer into the image of Christ which is why we believe that the best way to live out our faith is through gospel centred communities. The vision of Community Groups is to live life together with our friends and neighbours and experience the gospel in ways we can't on our own to wrestle with truths of the Bible to love each other to serve our city and to participate in the mission of God for Northfield Church.
What are Community Groups?
Community groups are groups of disciples who live with the purpose of sanctifiying each other, spreading the Gospel and giving glory to god. They gather locally to transform their neighbourhoods and exalt the name of Jesus . Each group will look different but the elements of study, prayer, confession, repentance, service, mission children, hospitality and training will be common to all . A Community Group is not a meeting but a lifestyle of discipleship lived out with a gospel intentionally and missional focus. Group activities are planned so friends , family and neighbours can participate . Our hope is that they witness the gospel lived out in our lives , they too will turn to Jesus and become his disciples.
How can i serve?
The Bible is full of accounts of God doing exciting things through communites of disciples...saving the lost healing, comfronting sin defeating injustice bringing hope and growing his Church. We believe wholeheartedly that God is going to do all this and more through Community Groups and that he desires for all of us to join him on his mission (John 14:12). The Elders and Ministry team have spent the last year praying about Community Groups of Northfield and now we'd love you to consider what part you will play. It could be as to support to the leader, group member or maybe organising events for the group. Take some time to think, pray and ask God how he wants you to serve.
What happens next?
Community Groups isn't a new ministry but a foundaton on which church can build and grow. The potential is huge but we need to own the vision as a church and move forward together for it to have the greatest impact. Pray for the part you might play as individuals but also for an ownership of the vision , a desire to grow as a disciple and a passion to save the lost.
