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CELEBRATION, CONGREGATION & CELL

Jesus' ministry had three different sizes. The size of the groups indicated the kind of ministry that happened in those groups. The growing disciple needs to participate in these three kinds of groups.

CELEBRATION

The most obvious ministry of Jesus was to the multitudes. Here He taught and performed miracles. This ministry was accessible to all without exception. Anyone could come and enjoy Jesus' presence. THIS IS WHAT WE DO DURING OUR WORSHIP SERVICES. It is CELEBRATION. Anyone can come and enjoy the presence of Jesus. They will feel a part of this event. It will be very open to newcomers.

CONGREGATION

The least obvious ministry of Jesus was to the group of seventy or so regular followers. They all knew one another well. They developed ways to minister and care for one another. They were also intensely interested in outreach. THIS IS WHAT WE DO DURING OUR ADULT BIBLE FELLOWSHIPS (ABF's). It is CONGREGATION. People grow in the context of feeling a vital part of a familiy where they care for others and receive care. New people are welcomed and added to this family.

CELL

The third ministry of Jesus was to his group of twelve disciples. They were even called, "The Twelve" because no one else was allowed into this intimate setting. They shared things that only the group knew. THIS IS WHAT WE DO IN OUR SMALL GROUPS. It is CELL. Each group grows in depth, and it is not allowed to grow in number. Intimacy and caring take place here on a level that cannot be achieved elsewhere.

If you participate in our worship services you should:

1) know God's love;
2) feel God's presence;
3) celebrate God's greatness;
4) be ready to apply God's truth.

If you participate in our Adult Bible Fellowships, you should:

1) know 6-7 people fairly well and about 30 people by name;
2) feel a definite belonging to God's family
3) pray for a significant group of believers and be prayed for by them as well;
4) be trained in how God's family works.

If you participate in our small groups, you should:

1) know 10 people really well;
2) feel an identity to a group that others cannot join;
3) grow in depth in your walk with God and life with other believers;
4) be able totally to be yourself with a group that loves you.

Your balanced Christian growth depends on participating in these vital activities. May God bless you as you meet the wonderful richness of Christ's body here at Wildwood.