This article is inspired by a book I read, "The Class Meeting" (by Kevin Watson), in which he argues for a renewal of the style of meetings held in early Methodism. Those meetings consisted of around 10-12 people in a "class," but the content of the class was not curriculum-driven. Rather, it was shaped around spiritual formation. These Methodist class meetings would focus on mutual encouragement, shared leadership, and spiritual growth questions such as "How is your life with God?"
Watson's point is that modern Christianity has focused too much and too long on information at the expense of transformation. Modern classes, usually found in either Sunday School approaches or small groups, typically have one facilitator who is the teacher or group leader. It is his responsibility to teach and pass on information in hopes that the group will be edified. Yet, the tragic result of these classes and groups is that, while some may learn some new information, most acquire this information...and that's it. Transformation almost never happens.
The reality is that transformation happens experientially. A kernel of knowledge may trigger transformation but true transformation happens when the gospel, and the spirit of Jesus, is assimilated into one's heart and life through reflection, prayer, action and conversation with those on a common journey. This process is seen in Luke 24, as the risen Jesus travels with two disciples. On the way, he teaches them from the Scriptures all about himself, and while they recognize later that their hearts burned within them, it was only during the common breaking of bread that they recognized the Lord Jesus. The experience of learning on a journey towards Jesus together is what leads to life change.
This is why I often mention Life Transformation Groups. These are small, very manageable groups where scripture is read, prayer is shared, and life is discussed in a safe place. My personal opinion is that every Christian should be involved in a safe, "small" group where they can read and discuss scripture and their lives in a context of faith formation and prayer. Those of us who have experienced this realize the power of these groups. A typical LTG is very small, only 3 people, and one of its strategies it to keep multiplying when new people are come into the group. However, the core principles of Bible, prayer and life-sharing can be taken into groups of any size, provided they remain small enough that real conversation can happen among the whole group.
In my church, we are focusing on reading through several books of the Bible this year and hearing lessons developed from our shared reading of those books. What better time to ask a few others to join with you in reading these books and sharing together a time of prayer and discussion of your reading, the lessons, and your lives? See for yourself the way transformation can unfold.
Watson's point is that modern Christianity has focused too much and too long on information at the expense of transformation. Modern classes, usually found in either Sunday School approaches or small groups, typically have one facilitator who is the teacher or group leader. It is his responsibility to teach and pass on information in hopes that the group will be edified. Yet, the tragic result of these classes and groups is that, while some may learn some new information, most acquire this information...and that's it. Transformation almost never happens.
The reality is that transformation happens experientially. A kernel of knowledge may trigger transformation but true transformation happens when the gospel, and the spirit of Jesus, is assimilated into one's heart and life through reflection, prayer, action and conversation with those on a common journey. This process is seen in Luke 24, as the risen Jesus travels with two disciples. On the way, he teaches them from the Scriptures all about himself, and while they recognize later that their hearts burned within them, it was only during the common breaking of bread that they recognized the Lord Jesus. The experience of learning on a journey towards Jesus together is what leads to life change.
This is why I often mention Life Transformation Groups. These are small, very manageable groups where scripture is read, prayer is shared, and life is discussed in a safe place. My personal opinion is that every Christian should be involved in a safe, "small" group where they can read and discuss scripture and their lives in a context of faith formation and prayer. Those of us who have experienced this realize the power of these groups. A typical LTG is very small, only 3 people, and one of its strategies it to keep multiplying when new people are come into the group. However, the core principles of Bible, prayer and life-sharing can be taken into groups of any size, provided they remain small enough that real conversation can happen among the whole group.
In my church, we are focusing on reading through several books of the Bible this year and hearing lessons developed from our shared reading of those books. What better time to ask a few others to join with you in reading these books and sharing together a time of prayer and discussion of your reading, the lessons, and your lives? See for yourself the way transformation can unfold.
