Small Group Trader: When did you decide to serve in Small Group Ministry?
Kyle Eaton: I am a church planting pastor who deeply believes in the value of “doing life” together. There is a huge importance both on the corporate gathering of God’s people AND the less formal gathering of some of God’s people in homes, over meals, etc. I think you see this in Acts 2 when you observe them gathering “at the Temple” and “in people’s homes.”
Small Group Trader: What encouragement would you offer to small group leaders out there?
Kyle Eaton: Make sure that you are a model of growth but not perfection. Jesus has much to say about leaders and teachers (Lk 6:40) so make sure you qualify character wise. Other than that, love on people by sharing life together and by “speaking the truth in love.”
Small Group Trader: In what ways have you and your family grown spiritually since you have been involved in this ministry?
Kyle Eaton: I personally have grown through small groups by doing outside work and then gathering to discuss and throw around different ideas. Much of my learning has happened through informal education—much like a group of pastors learning together in a small group format. It blends real life with real truth and then demands that we put into practice the implications of our conclusions. An incredible way to learn if you ask me.
Small Group Trader: Why does small group ministry play such a critical role in the church today?
Kyle Eaton: Anytime you have the opportunity to be in relationships with others and in conversation surrounding the Scriptures, you have the opportunity to grow. Our small groups are the backbone of our church planting effort without which we would simply be a gathering of people that lacks the relationships needed to see life change happen. The key to ministry is this: Relationships…which is what small groups provide.