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christian counseling today
Vol. 20 no. 4
In preparing for this article, I did some research
on current thought and research about “small
groups.” Not surprisingly, I found a wide variety
of opinions on the usefulness of this approach.
Certainly, there are still proponents of groups
in a variety of forms. There are also opponents
committed to the idea they do not work. One
online article was even titled, “Why Churches
Should Euthanize Small Groups.” There are also
new formats and forums for groups utilizing
social media. At this time, online groups are too
new to have a lot of research data about their
effectiveness, but I expect they will continue to
open up new possibilities. Just like traditional
face-to-face groups, there will also be a wide
range of outcomes and opinions. The reason is
that small groups can be incredibly effective and
healing. They can also be ineffective, a waste of
time, or even harmful.
So, how do those leading groups take steps
to ensure they provide opportunity for growth
and healing? I will spend some time on the
factors that history and research show create
healing in groups. However, I will also examine
issues that undermine the healing power of small
groups. I hope you will agree with me that true
healing—deep, profound and lasting psycho-
logical and spiritual change—comes only from
I am a true believer in the power of groups, as I have both participated in and led various
types of therapy and support groups throughout my career. Also, I have been part of many
church-based small groups over the last 30 years. Their power is incredible… I have
seen firsthand how they can create an atmosphere of healing that allows those involved
to experience growth and the presence of God’s love in a supernatural way. With that
said, I am also aware that small groups, as a format, are not a panacea and they do not
guarantee a positive or healing experience.
Jenn i fer C i sney Ellers
using small
groups as a
Christian
model for
healing
