Here are the elements I’ve found essential for a great group:

• A great group needs a leader. When everyone is always voting on what we do next, we never do much. A good leader makes for a good group.
• A great group is built around God’s word. Too often, small groups become all about fellowship. While fellowship is always essential, doing life around God’s word is what truly makes the difference.
• A great group is a safe group. If people can’t discuss openly without fear of judgment, rejection, or gossip, the group is doomed to fail.
• A great group looks outward. Serving together is life-changing. Jesus came to serve, not to be served.
• A great group births new groups. If a group stays together for too long, they usually grow stale. Healthy groups produce new groups.