christian counseling today
Vol. 20 no. 4
9
up his companion. But woe to the one
who falls when there is not another to
lift him up. A cord of three strands is
not quickly torn apart.” This passage
of Scripture provides an excellent
summary on the benefits of incorpo-
rating small groups for both professional
and ministry-related entities. Much like
two climbers who are linked together
and facing the daunting task of scaling a
mountain, the rope is a lifeline, repre-
senting the critical trust necessary and
helping ensure one’s ability to scale and
overcome significant obstacles within
the context of relationship.
In this issue of
CCT
, the nature and
structure of small groups are exam-
ined from a number of vantage points.
Denise Daniel and Jennifer Cisney
Ellers offer broad reviews on the history
of the small group movement, research
findings, the therapeutic factors that
come into play and how groups can
provide a vibrant Christian framework
for healing. Seasoned church-based
small group leaders, Sue Kim-Ahn and
Monte Fisher, also share the unique
elements of spiritual community that
are fostered in a small group, while
recovery experts, Steve Arterburn
and David Stoop, address some of the
concerns and complaints voiced by
people of faith. On the more practical
side, Stephen Greggo describes the
important leadership characteristics
necessary in facilitating effective groups
and Paul VanValin outlines how this
modality can be used to enhance and
expand a counselor’s private prac-
tice services. Finally, several authors
discuss some of the most well-known
programs and practical uses in support
group settings. These include David
O’Brien, a state representative for
Celebrate Recovery; Steve Grissom,
the co-founder of DivorceCare and
GriefShare; and counselors, Jim Cress
and Marnie Ferree, who tackle the
subject of sexual addiction.
Many Christians understand
the picture of unity and relationship
inherent in the concept of the Trinity.
Jesus offered His disciples the same
opportunity when He said, “For where
two or three have gathered together in
My name, I am there in their midst”
(Matthew 18:20). When you are willing
to invite the Savior, as well as others,
into your life’s story, areas of growth
that accompany this intentional choice
include an increased sense of Christ’s
presence, a sense of belonging, a sense of
objectivity, a sense of openness, a sense
of support, a sense of self-expression
and a sense of power. Whether you lead
groups or have experienced their bene-
fits as a member, may God continue to
give you joy in the journey.
✠
Increaseyourcounseloreffectivenessandprovideexpertcareand
counselforournation’smilitaryservicemembersandtheirfamilies.
Advocating and supporting the development of Christian
psychology and research.
Empowering marriage & family therapists, caregivers,
educators and ministry leaders.
Promoting a greater awareness and understanding of
multiculturalism and the impact of cultural and ethnic differences
on the counseling process.
Designed for those serving in all helping fields related to grief
counseling, crisis response and disaster services through
training, certification, networking and collaboration.
Assisting people with substance abuse, psychological and
behavioral addiction and the recovery process.
Making God’s Word and spiritual life prevalent in the
counseling process for those who hunger for spiritual maturity.
Equipping and training counselors and caregivers to offer
effective healing and forgiveness to those suffering wounds
caused by abortion and sexual trauma.
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