Home groups in the Bible are not described by name but are very much implied, e.g. we have scarcely opened the New Testament before we discover that Jesus started a "housegroup", for in many respect, that is exactly what the disciples were. Expertly led by jesus, the disciples were taught and equipped for service through the teaching and example of the master. There are references to show that the early church frequently met as "housegroups":

• Romans 16:3-5 - "Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus. They risked their lives for me. Not only I but all the churches of the Gentiles are greateful to them. Greet also the church that meets at their house."
• Colossions 4:15 - "Give my greetings to the brother od Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house."
• Philemon 2 - "To Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier and to the church that meets in your home."

What then is the purpose of home groups? It is often said that at St Andrw's church we are members of one big family, that in itself brings many benefits. The small groups could be best described as a number of smaller family units; closer-knit units, meeting together to learn, encourage, support and uplift one another. The bond of fellowship that takes place through this benefits the whole church.

The following quotes come from members of home groups that already meet:

"If like me, you ever feel on a Sunday after the message, 'Why did that happen? I'd like to know more about that.. What happened next? How does that affect me?' then Digging Deeper had most of the answers. We shared our experiences, knowledge, fellowship and all grew together in God's love. I can't wait for the next session to start!"

"We are more tolerant of ech other as a result of meeting together and the study has helped us to be more accepting of others on the outside."

"What I got out of my group was a deeper knowledge of the Bible, and a great feeling of friendship with the other members of my group."

"Housegroups have opened my eyes (Psalm 119). I love the fellowship and friendship. Digging Deeper has challenged me, encouraging, at times comforting, strengthening and life-changing. Hearing the opinons of others was a great help to me."

All of these quotes seem to have a common theme: the benefits of small groups come from meeting together. The current small groups are made up from those with no experience of the Bible, some with a little experience and others with varying degrees of experience. When we share our opinions we all learn from each other; if we are most comfortable just listening, that's OK.

Since the introduction of 'Digging Deeper' we have been given an excellent opportunity to explore the Bible; the groups now meeting certainly appreciate the depth of preparation that goes into that study material and we intend to make the most of it.

If you're part of St Andrew's church, why not consider trying out a housegroup to see if it's for you? If you can't commit to attending every week, that's fine - there are no hard and fast rules. The comments from group members above suggests that they place much importance on belonging to a housegroup; it would be so encouraging if others were to share that experience too.

Please contact Alison at the church office if you would like to come along to one of the meetings, and she will give you contact details for the leader.

We also have a "virtual home group" which discusses the Digging Deeper material online, and a midweek gathering in our church where Digging Deeper material is also discussed and prayed over.

"Everything written in the Scriptures was written to teach us,
in order that we might have hope."
Romans 15:4