Why Take the Pathways?

Why Community and Small Groups?

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NLT). Small group community as a part of congregation life, is absolutely essential for personal discovery, spiritual growth and discipleship, friendship making, and for maximizing participation. Click here to explore further these and other reasons to care about community. Also, click here to read one of my published articles on this topic. Finally, click here to see what these leaders below and other Christian leaders are saying about the importance of small group communities.

“A church must grow larger and smaller at the same time. Larger through worship and smaller through small groups.” [Also] “When Jesus started His ministry, the very first thing He did was form a small group.” Rick Warren

“The small-group program is not an appendage; it is not a program we tacked onto an existing structure. The small group is part of our lifestyle.” Andy Stanley

“A spiritual family, or cell group, provides a safe place for people to be open and transparent at the first hint of temptation: this is “preventative maintenance,” not “damage control.” Larry Stockstill

“Almost all of the New Testament churches met in a home.” Larry Osbourne

“I believe God can and will use healthy small group communities to change the world, one life at a time.” Michael C. Mack

While social restrictions from attending large gatherings are in effect, it is more important than ever that people created in God’s image find a pathway to experience life-changing community in smaller group gatherings. I’ve devoted decades to helping others do this. My name is John Watson, and in “My Story”, I share a few highlights of my own pathway to community and small groups (both personally and in helping others) over several decades.