What does it take to lead a group?

What are the requirements for life group leadership? As we are prayerfully starting new groups and you’re prayerfully considering leading one, it’s an excellent question to ask. So what does a small group leader look like? In short, there’s a necessary high bar and low bar to leadership – both a high standard to live up to and a real sense that everyone is welcome.

There’s a low bar because most of the time, perfectly qualified leaders doubt their ability to lead. If a ministry team is a “group of friends (new and existing) who consistently get together with a purpose and are intentional about having spiritual conversations and following Christ,” then there are a lot of people who can facilitate that. You just have to be someone who can invite people over and make them feel welcome!

But there’s also a high bar for leadership. If ministry teams are the heart of the church, than life group leaders are really the frontline pastors. They’re the lead servants. They set the tone for the church and make people feel welcome. A team leader who catches a missional, or outward-focused, vision and has a heart for God, the people in the group, and the world outside of the group can absolutely impact the entire church and the world through his or her leadership and service.

So while we want anyone to see it’s possible to lead, we also need certain criteria. Here’s a short and simple list that includes mainly character traits, with a few practical needs as well.

• Teachable
• Empowers people in group to lead and serve
• Active at Oasis – if you’re a leader in the church, you need to be committed to this local body
• Called and growing – feels a call/passion to this ministry and is actively growing in his or her walk with God
• Hospitality gift – able to reach out, connect and make people feel welcome.

Does that look like you? You may be a perfect fit for small group leadership. If it seems overwhelming, don’t worry. God equips us as we start moving in obedience to his leading. Plus, we really believe in the power of shared leadership. We weren’t meant to live life alone, and we also weren’t meant to lead alone. We’re here to help you figure out whether this is the right fit and to support you as you get things rolling!