I am 23-year-old kid who used to love drugs and sex more than Jesus. I feel like I have about as much business being a LifeGroups Director as Lebron James does a stock car driver. But, by God’s grace, I get to serve in this capacity with Midtown Fellowship in Columbia, South Carolina. At Midtown, I get to work with a phenomenal team towards the spiritual development and care of a network of around 40 LifeGroups.
I live in a 3 bed/1 bath home with four other guys. It always keeps my life interesting.
The way to my heart passes through a hot cup of coffee and a plane ticket to anywhere. Michael Bailey Interview with Small Group Trader:
Small Group Trader: When did you decide to serve in Small Group Ministry?
Michael Bailey: I have been serving in small group ministry since college where I helped to start a network of small groups through the campus. Currently, I serve as the LifeGroups Director for Midtown Fellowship where I oversee our small group ministry.
Small Group Trader: What encouragement would you offer to small group leaders out there?
Michael Bailey: Relational ministry is never easy and very often painful, but remember the Gospel makes it all worth it.
Small Group Trader: In what ways have you and your spouse/family grown spiritually since you have been involved in this ministry?
Michael Bailey: When I first began working with small groups (training leaders, organizing groups, etc), I had a gigantic tendency to rely on my own strength and ability to accomplish everything. However, through the years, God has taught me that the work really depends on Him. If I want to see people grow towards Christ, yes, I can do some things, but in the end it’s God who is doing the real transformational work. The most important work I can actually do is pray. Pray a whole lot!
Small Group Trader: Why does small group ministry play such a critical role in the church today?
Michael Bailey: Small group ministry plays such a crucial role in the church because it lies at the very heart of what the church is. Small groups are where discipleship and authentic community of believers exists.