If you think small groups are some newfangled gimmick---think again! Icenogle examines both Old and New Testament texts to explain the basis for small groups, emphasizing the early church. He reveals why small groups are a crucial part of any ministry, shows how to apply biblical principles to set up small groups, and includes suggestions for training leaders. This is an invaluable resource for anyone who works with, or plans to work with, small groups. 252 pages, paper from InterVarsity.
Small groups have had a major influence on the growth of the church in recent years. They are an important place for ministry, community and discipleship. Yet all too often small group programming has taken place apart from consideration of its biblical underpinnings. Gareth Icenogle thoroughly examines both Old and New Testaments for the basis of small group ministry. He considers the texts in new ways, providing heightened understanding of their implications for ministry in the context of small groups. Then he turns to the early church to study tradition and practice. In addition, he brings an integration of theological, sociological and educational principles to the biblical text. All through the book, practical applications of these principles offer guidance for setting up and running a biblically based small group ministry program. Those who are working or who hope to work with small groups will find this one-of-a-kind book invaluable.
Gareth Weldon Icenogle (D.Min., Fuller Theological Seminary) is the senior pastor of West Side Presbyterian Church in Ridgewood, New Jersey. He teaches the Doctor of Ministry course in small groups at Fuller and speaks on small group ministry across the United States and internationally.
"In-depth theology and biblical substance excite me. For that reason, I am extremely excited about the contents of this book."
"Gareth Icenogle has provided what has been missing from the small group literature. Having long had books that address the "how' of small groups, we now have the book we have been waiting for that addresses the 'why' of small groups. The nineties give evidence of being the golden decade for small groups. Biblical Foundations for Small Group Ministry provides the kind of theological insight that will guide the growth of this movement in healthy ways. This book is a wealth of insights. I cannot recommend it highly enough."
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