At Journey Church, we believe that life is better in community. Our Group life exists to help people grow in their faith, build meaningful relationships, and live out their calling as followers of Jesus. We offer two distinct types of groups: Life Groups and Discipleship Groups. While both foster Christian community and spiritual growth, they serve different purposes and operate with different structures.
Group Life at JOURNEY
Life Groups vs. Discipleship Groups
Purpose
Life Groups: Designed to build community, foster fellowship, and provide relational support. These groups help members connect through shared life experiences, sermon discussions, or common interests.
Discipleship Groups: Focus on intentional spiritual growth, accountability, and deepening faith through structured biblical study and personal transformation.
Group Size & Structure
Life Groups: Typically larger (8–15 people), promoting open discussions, shared experiences, and social engagement.
Discipleship Groups: Smaller (3–5 people), allowing for deeper relationships, transparency, and accountability.
Content & Focus
Life Groups: Cover a variety of topics, including sermon-based discussions, topical studies, or life-stage issues, with an emphasis on applying faith to everyday life.
Discipleship Groups: Center around intentional spiritual formation, including Bible study, scripture memorization, prayer, and accountability in spiritual disciplines.
Commitment Level
Life Groups: More flexible in attendance and participation, designed to accommodate varying levels of spiritual maturity.
Discipleship Groups: Require a
higher level of commitment, consistency, and willingness to be challenged in personal growth and accountability.
Leadership & Multiplication
Life Groups: Led by facilitators who guide discussions and foster relationships, though multiplication is not always the primary focus.
Discipleship Groups: Led by mature believers who disciple others with the goal of multiplication—each member is encouraged to eventually lead their own group.
Duration & Lifespan
Life Groups: Often ongoing or seasonal, with members staying together for extended periods.
Discipleship Groups: Have a defined timeframe (e.g., 6–12 months) with the goal of equipping members to start new discipleship groups.