The Shocking Truth About Small Group Growth
(Hint: It’s Not About Your Killer Lesson Plan)
Ever feel like you’re burning the midnight oil crafting the perfect small group lesson—only to have it fall flat? Leaders everywhere stress over prep, commentary, and clever questions, but research shows something surprising: lesson prep time doesn’t drive group growth.
So, what does? Prayer.
That’s the shocking truth uncovered in The Shocking Truth About Small Group Growth. Groups don’t thrive because leaders have flawless notes; they thrive when leaders consistently pray for their members and invite God’s presence into the group.
What You’ll Learn
Why Prep Doesn’t Equal Growth – How the “killer lesson plan” myth distracts leaders from what really matters.
Prayer as the Secret Weapon – The unseen force that fuels growth and transformation.
Practical Prayer Strategies – From prayer cards and apps to praying Scripture, simple ways to make prayer central.
Pray Together, Grow Together – How shared prayer builds unity and spiritual depth in your group.
Biblical Foundation – Why John 15:5 reminds us that apart from Christ, all our prep is powerless.
Why It Matters
Small groups are the heartbeat of disciple-making. When leaders shift their focus from performance to prayer, groups come alive with God’s power. The difference isn’t more clever icebreakers—it’s more time on your knees.
Download It
Stop stressing over lesson prep. Start leading with prayer. Watch your group flourish.
Mark Maestas
Growth Team Leader, markmaestas@ibsa.org