Why should I be in a small group?

We meet in small groups because they're an integral part of accomplishing our mission as the church of Jesus Christ. Our mission statement at NPC is "Transforming lives by living the truth of Jesus Christ." This transformation is a gradual process and requires us to be like Christ: "... everyone who looks up to him, trusting and expectant, will gain a real life, eternal life." (John 3:15, MSG) In the early church, (Acts 2:42) people devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and grew toward spiritual maturity. Likewise, as we gather in small groups to study scripture, we grow stronger in faith and maturity. God's Word illumines our self-deceptions and clarifies our perspective.

It is God's plan that those who call on His name should be like Him in attitude and behavior. The church exists not to collect saints, but to transform them. A small group provides the optimal environment for the life change Jesus intends for every believer. Significant, accountable relationships occur best in the context of a small group.

Connecting people into the family of God is not an optional sub-ministry of the church—it is the ministry of the church in the fullest sense of the word. Without this connection, best provided through a small group, people can attend worship services for months of Sundays, and yet never truly participate in the community of Jesus Christ that we call "church".

If you would like to consider the options of being in a small group at NPC, please contact us by email or at the church 617-332-9255.