Cell Group Purpose: Why Cell Groups Matter
We want to answer three questions in this seminar:
1) What is the purpose of the cell group?
2) What does a properly functioning cell group look like?
3) What are the leader’s special roles and responsibilities?
It is good for us to discuss the reasons we have cell groups at all (also home groups, small groups). We do not have them because other places do. We are not trying to be fashionable, but biblical (Acts 2:46). We have them because they take us to where we want to go.
Cell groups, when properly functioning, provide the environment in which Christians can actively participate in each other’s lives. Unless you are in active leadership, your chances of being close to other Christians are not high. The cell group places you in a protected context with other Christians so that you can learn from them and give to them (Ephesians 4:11–13). The word cell well describes the supportive interaction among the many cells, all working together to accomplish purposes greater than themselves.
Cells are much like coals on a fire, which shine brightest when laid next to others. Cell groups are designed to provide this level of openness and accountability, enabling each Christian to continue to grow normally.
“Cells are the organism of the body of believers in small groups for the purpose of worship, experiencing God, ministering to one another, and evangelizing the community.”
— Finnell, p. 23
I Peter 2:4–5
I Peter 2:4–5 clearly speaks about how we as the church—every Christian—can now all be a part of this process:
“As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
The purpose of a cell group is to create a Christian fellowship with one another and God that lives among the non-Christian community; to let the light of Christ shine through each member in order to touch the lives of those around them; to bring them to the feet of Jesus and the fellowship of His body, the church; and to teach them to walk in His steps.
Worship
Living in God’s presence: “As you come to him, the living Stone...”
Edification
Being mutually supported: “...you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.”
Ministry
Serving God and others: “...a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices...”