Transformational Groups

Creating a New Scorecard for Groups

by Ed Stetzer • 2014 • 224 pages

3.9

145 ratings

Discipleship Christian Church

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Key Takeaways

1. Transformational groups are essential for spiritual growth and discipleship

Community is an instrument of worship, a weapon against sin, and a tool for evangelism—all for the exaltation of Jesus.

Community fosters growth. Transformational groups provide an environment where believers can grow in their faith, support one another, and be held accountable. Research shows that individuals who regularly attend small groups consistently make more progress in their spiritual development than those who do not. They are more likely to read and study the Bible, pray consistently, and engage in evangelism.

Groups address cultural needs. In an increasingly individualistic society, small groups meet the need for authentic relationships and community. They provide a space where people can connect, share burdens, and grow together in their faith journey.

Biblical basis for groups. Scripture offers numerous examples of the importance of community, from Jesus' disciples to the early church. The New Testament contains over 30 "one another" commands that can only be fully lived out in the context of close relationships.

2. Groups should be integrated into the church's overall mission and strategy

Believe in community and establishing transformational communities is not the same thing.

Intentional integration. For groups to be truly effective, they must be intentionally integrated into the church's overall mission and strategy. This requires clarity on the purpose of groups within the church's discipleship process and alignment with the church's vision.

Avoid competing systems. When groups are not properly integrated, they can become competing systems within the church, leading to chaos and underachievement. Church leaders must see community as a biblical non-negotiable and an essential for transformation.

Clear expectations. Church leaders need to be clear about their expectations for groups and how they fit into the overall discipleship strategy. This includes defining the primary purpose of groups (e.g., formation, connection, or mission) and aligning leader selection and training with this purpose.

3. Effective group leaders are crucial for fostering transformation

Leaders who are deeply impacted by God are able to facilitate holistic, meaningful life change in others. We need both more leaders and better leaders.

Key leader attributes. Research shows that effective group leaders possess certain attributes:

Make people feel comfortable sharing in the group
Are trustworthy
Are good Bible teachers
Are good listeners
Are transparent about their own weaknesses and struggles

Leadership development. Investing in leadership development is crucial for the success of a group ministry. This includes:

Encouraging leaders through regular support and celebration
Empowering leaders by giving them responsibility and trust
Holding leaders accountable through clear expectations and reporting

Matching leaders to purpose. The effectiveness of a group is greatly enhanced when the leader's skills and passions align with the group's primary purpose (e.g., teaching, facilitating community, or leading mission).

4. Group practices should align with the church's discipleship goals

Clarity is the preoccupation of the effective leader. If you do nothing else as a leader, be clear.

Define group practices. Church leaders should clearly define the practices they want groups to engage in, based on their overall discipleship goals. These may include:

Studying Scripture together
Praying for one another
Caring for each other during life transitions
Serving together in the community
Sharing meals and fellowship

Focus and clarity. Research shows that the most effective groups are those with a clear focus. Trying to do too many things can lead to ineffectiveness. Church leaders should prioritize the most important practices for their context.

Measure and celebrate. What you measure and celebrate will shape your group culture. Develop a scorecard that tracks not just numbers but also the qualitative impact of groups on individuals and the church as a whole.

5. Multiplying groups and leaders is key to expanding impact

More community = More disciples

Multiplication mindset. To expand the impact of groups, churches need to adopt a multiplication mindset. This involves:

Consistently starting new groups
Developing new leaders
Creating a culture where multiplication is expected and celebrated

Overcoming barriers. Common barriers to multiplication include:

Finding the right time for new groups
Overcoming apathy or lack of commitment
Identifying and developing new leaders

Jesus' model. Jesus' approach to calling and developing leaders provides insights for multiplication:

He called people before they were fully developed
He sent them out before they felt ready
He cast vision for what they could become
He invested in them despite their imperfections

6. Connecting with disconnected people is vital for church growth

We are nomads, perpetual immigrants condemned to move from place to place in our own country.

Importance of connection. In an increasingly disconnected society, churches must be intentional about connecting with disconnected people, both within the church and in the surrounding community.

Strategies for connection. Some practical ways to connect with disconnected people include:

Implementing the "three-minute rule" after church services
Having a welcoming groups concierge in a prime location
Following up with visitors through calls, letters, and personal visits
Engaging neighbors through acts of hospitality and service
Hosting neighborhood events and parties

Group-sponsored outreach. Encourage groups to sponsor events that connect with neighbors, such as block parties, holiday celebrations, or welcome initiatives for new residents.

7. Imagine the possibilities of a movement driven by transformational groups

Large movements start from small beginnings. If we plant the right DNA of the kingdom, the growth of the kingdom is inevitable.

Transformative potential. Stories like Suzanne's demonstrate the transformative power of groups. When individuals experience authentic community and spiritual growth, they often become disciple-making disciples themselves.

Exponential impact. As groups multiply and more people are connected to transformational community, the potential for widespread impact grows exponentially. This can lead to:

More people experiencing authentic faith and spiritual growth
Increased engagement in mission and service
Greater impact on local communities and beyond

God's vision. Ultimately, the goal is not just to grow churches or programs, but to participate in God's vision for a "vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language" worshipping Him (Revelation 7:9). Transformational groups can play a crucial role in making this vision a reality.

Last updated: May 23, 2025

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FAQ

1. What is "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer about?

Focus on Group-Based Discipleship: The book explores how small groups are essential platforms for spiritual transformation and disciple-making within the church.
Research-Driven Insights: Drawing on extensive research from LifeWay, it analyzes what makes groups effective in fostering spiritual growth and community.
Practical Strategies: Stetzer and co-author Eric Geiger provide actionable steps for church leaders to create, lead, and multiply transformational groups.
Biblical Foundation: The book grounds its advice in Scripture, emphasizing the communal nature of Christian growth and the importance of integrating groups into the church’s mission.

2. Why should I read "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer?

Addressing Discipleship Deficit: The book tackles the widespread lack of effective disciple-making in churches and offers solutions.
Actionable Guidance: It provides clear, research-backed strategies for starting, leading, and multiplying small groups that actually transform lives.
For Leaders and Members: Both church leaders and group participants will find practical advice for fostering authentic community and spiritual growth.
Real-Life Stories: The book includes compelling stories and case studies that illustrate the power of groups to change individuals and communities.

3. What are the key takeaways from "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer?

Community is Essential: Spiritual transformation happens best in community, not isolation; groups are non-negotiable for disciple-making.
Intentionality Matters: Effective groups require clear purpose, strong leadership, and integration with the church’s overall mission.
Leadership Development: The right leaders, equipped and empowered, are crucial for group health and multiplication.
Measurable Outcomes: Churches should track not just attendance, but spiritual growth, service, and multiplication as key metrics.

4. How does Ed Stetzer define a "transformational group" in "Transformational Groups"?

More Than Meetings: Transformational groups are not just about gathering but about fostering deep spiritual change and mission.
Core Convictions: They are built on a manifesto of biblical values—Scripture, gospel, mission, grace, and God’s glory.
Outward and Inward Focus: Such groups balance caring for members, holding each other accountable, and reaching out to the unconnected.
Multiplication: A transformational group is designed to reproduce itself, creating more disciples and more groups.

5. What is the "Transformational Group Manifesto" in "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer?

Five Core Convictions: The manifesto centers on the Bible, the gospel, mission, grace, and God’s glory as foundational group values.
Bible-Centered: Groups prioritize studying and applying Scripture together, not just sharing opinions.
Gospel-Driven: The gospel is both the starting point and ongoing focus, shaping group life and outreach.
Mission-Oriented: Groups are called to live “sent,” serving and sharing Christ in their communities.
Grace and Glory: Groups foster honest, grace-filled relationships and aim to glorify God through unity and love.

6. What research findings does "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer present about the impact of small groups?

Higher Discipleship Scores: Regular group attenders score 20% higher in discipleship attributes than non-attenders.
Increased Spiritual Practices: Group members read the Bible, pray, and serve more frequently than those not in groups.
Greater Evangelism and Service: Those in groups are more likely to share their faith, invite others, and serve both inside and outside the church.
Community and Accountability: Groups foster significant relationships, accountability, and transparency, leading to deeper spiritual growth.

7. How does "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer recommend integrating groups into a church’s disciple-making strategy?

Alignment with Church Mission: Groups should be intentionally designed to support the church’s overall disciple-making vision.
Clear Purpose: Each group must have a primary focus—formation, connection, mission, or invitation—rather than trying to do everything.
Leadership Empowerment: Group leaders are seen as “undershepherds” and are encouraged, empowered, and held accountable.
Avoiding Competing Systems: Integration prevents groups from becoming isolated or competing with other church ministries.

8. What qualities and skills does Ed Stetzer say are essential for group leaders in "Transformational Groups"?

Relational Skills: Leaders should make people feel comfortable sharing and foster a safe, welcoming environment.
Teaching Ability: Good Bible teaching is important, but not the only skill needed.
Transparency and Conflict Resolution: Leaders must model honesty about struggles and be able to handle group conflicts biblically.
Delegation and Empowerment: Effective leaders delegate responsibilities, encouraging group members to serve and grow.

9. What practical group practices does "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer recommend for fostering transformation?

Spiritual Disciplines Together: Groups should regularly pray, study Scripture, and worship as a community.
Life Events and Care: Members support each other through life’s milestones—births, deaths, marriages, and crises.
Social Connection: Healthy groups connect outside regular meetings, have fun together, and build genuine friendships.
Service and Outreach: Groups serve together in their communities and intentionally invite unchurched friends to join.

10. How does "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer address the multiplication of groups and leaders?

Multiplication is Essential: Groups should be designed to reproduce, creating new groups and leaders as a sign of health.
Leadership Pipeline: Apprenticeship and intentional leader development are key to sustaining growth.
Influence Over Control: Culture change happens through influence and inspiration, not rigid rules or forced multiplication.
Risk and Investment: Like Jesus, leaders should take risks on developing new leaders, even before they feel “ready.”

11. What strategies does "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer offer for connecting with disconnected people?

Hospitality and Presence: Leaders and members are encouraged to be present in their neighborhoods and practice biblical hospitality.
Quick Assimilation: Newcomers should be connected to groups within weeks, not months, to increase retention and spiritual growth.
Practical Steps: Use the “three-minute rule” after services, have a groups concierge, and follow up personally with visitors.
Neighborhood Engagement: Groups are urged to host events, serve, and build relationships with neighbors as a form of outreach.

12. What are the best quotes from "Transformational Groups" by Ed Stetzer and what do they mean?

“No sequoia grows alone.” – Emphasizes that spiritual strength and endurance come from interconnected community, not isolation.
“Transformation is a communal experience, not an individual exercise.” – Underscores the biblical truth that discipleship happens best in groups.
“Groups are about living in the gospel, not simply about living together or serving the community.” – Reminds readers that the gospel must be central to group life, not just social or service activities.
“Culture is changed by influence, not by control.” – Encourages leaders to shape group culture through relationships and vision, not just rules.
“The movement of the church is unstoppable, and we are invited to participate.” – Inspires readers to imagine the possibilities of what God can do through transformational groups and the local church.