Multiply, Multiply, Multiply

The Empty Chair
One of the growth-killing dynamics of a small group is that of an inward focus. It’s the “us four and no more” approach that is common when you attempt to build deep relationships with a small number of students. In some ways we want to build on conversations, deepen trust, and facilitate deep sharing. Some of that sharing dynamic is interrupted when a new student is brought into the mix. So how do we encourage growth and maintain that high level of sharing and trust?

From the beginning, make sure there is at least one empty chair (actual or metaphorical) in your small group setting. Clearly communicate to your students that the goal is to fill that chair with one unengaged student. You might even talk about who they will pray for and specifically ask to join the group. Then, when that person finally does come, they will be better prepared to include him/her in the conversation. If it is someone they already know, the lag time of building trust and sharing can be minimized.

On a side note, one of the reasons we are so intentional about safety training and policies about protecting our kids is to build a high level of trust for our currently engaged students and those who haven't come yet. If we can honestly say something like, "Join us and our highly trained, motivated, and safe adults, and we'll have a great time together", we begin to build trust for outsiders and insiders alike. And this lowers the trust barriers we have to work through to truly be relational leaders. But we have to first BE safe people, and then DEMONSTRATE that we are safe people.

Not only does the Empty Chair principle prepare your students for growth, but it empowers them to pray and invite on their own! Think about how you might build a multiplication mindset into your Small Group!

And tell them the truth!