Hey there, group leaders! So, you’ve built a fantastic Bible study group that’s thriving and growing. That’s great! But now you’re wondering how to encourage your group members to take the plunge and start another group. It’s a great way to expand your ministry and reach even more people.

In a recent survey of over 1000 churches, Lifeway discovered that in 2024, only 46% of churches started a new group. That’s not great.

New groups grow faster than established groups, tend to be more outward-focused and evangelistic, and for every new group you start, the entire Bible study organization will grow by 10 people (in my experience, it’s even more).

Not every group (and yes, you the group leader) are excited about the prospects of starting a new group. I get it. You’ve worked hard to grow your group, the people love each other, and it’s just not the most comfortable thing we ask groups to do. Like the old song says, “Breaking up his hard to do.”

Here are three suggestions for launching that new group.

1. Share the Vision and Benefits

First things first, it’s essential to share the vision and benefits of starting a new group. People are more likely to take action when they understand the bigger picture and how it aligns with the values and goals of your church, and how it reflects God’s heart for reaching lost, unconnected people.

• Cast the Vision: Paint a vivid picture of what it would look like to have multiple thriving groups. Explain how it can create a ripple effect, reaching more people and fostering a stronger community. Share stories of how other groups have successfully multiplied and the positive impact it’s had on their members.
• Highlight the Benefits: Emphasize the personal growth and leadership development that comes with starting a new group. Explain how it can deepen their faith, build new relationships, and provide opportunities to serve others. When people see the tangible benefits, they’re more likely to be motivated to step up.

2. Equip and Empower Potential Leaders

One of the biggest hurdles to starting a new group is the fear of not being equipped or capable. As a leader, you can play a crucial role in equipping and empowering potential leaders within your group.

• Enlist an apprentice. An apprentice group leader is the key to starting a new group. No apprentice…no new group. There’s always at least one person in every group that has a heart for outreach, evangelism, and connecting with “the unconnected.” As you enlist this person, announce to the group that your intention is to train up this person, then release them to start another group. Tell your group members they should begin praying now about their role in launching the new group – the apprentice leader will need a core team of people (six to eight) to help him launch the new group.
• Provide Training: If you’re reading this post and you’re the pastor or other staff leader, offer training sessions or workshops to help potential leaders develop the skills they need. This could include how to facilitate discussions, handle group dynamics, and plan engaging sessions. Providing resources and support can boost their confidence and readiness to lead.
• Encourage Small Steps: Encourage potential leaders to start small by co-leading a session or taking on a specific role within the current group. This gradual approach allows them to gain experience and build confidence before taking on the full responsibility of leading a new group.

3. Create a Culture of Multiplication

To inspire your group to start another one, it’s important to create a culture of multiplication where growth and expansion are celebrated and encouraged.

• Celebrate Successes: Whenever a new group is started, celebrate it! Share the news with the entire community, highlight the new leaders, and acknowledge their efforts. Celebrating these milestones reinforces the idea that starting new groups is a valued and exciting part of your ministry.
• Share Stories: Regularly share stories of how new groups are making a difference in people’s lives. Hearing testimonies of transformed lives and strengthened faith can inspire others to take the leap and start their own group.
• Encourage a Multiplication Mindset: Foster a mindset where every group member sees themselves as a potential leader and multiplier. Encourage them to think about who they could invite to join a new group and how they can contribute to the growth of the ministry. When multiplication becomes a shared goal, it creates a sense of collective responsibility and excitement.

By sharing the vision and benefits, equipping and empowering potential leaders, and creating a culture of multiplication, you can inspire your group to start another one. Remember, the goal is to expand your ministry and reach more people with the love and message of Christ. So, go ahead and encourage your group to take that next step. You’ve got this!

Happy multiplying!