Why Your Small Groups Aren't Actually Making Disciples

Small groups are one of the most common ministries in the church — but are they actually producing disciples? In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that many churches have confused participation with transformation. Just because people show up to a group doesn't mean discipleship is happening. In fact, your small groups ministry might be the most dangerous ministry in your church — because you think discipleship is happening when it isn't.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches develop practical strategies for revitalization, discipleship, and leadership. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they tackle actionable topics to help your church thrive.

In this episode:

• [00:04:03] The "participation trap" — why getting people into groups isn't the same as making disciples
• [00:09:33] What Acts 2:41-47 tells us about what small groups should actually accomplish
• [00:14:11] The three things most small groups are missing: clear outcomes, accountability, and connection to the discipleship pathway
• [00:17:32] How to define your discipleship target and design groups around it
• [00:19:49] Why small group leaders need a framework, not just curriculum — and why they don't need to be Bible teachers

Resources mentioned:

• 🛠️ Healthy Churches Toolkit (Small Groups Ministry Training by Build Groups): healthychurchestoolkit.com
• 📖 Full article & show notes: malphursgroup.com/330
• 🔌 TapConnect (church attendance & guest connection tool): tapconnect.church — use code TMG10 for 10% off

Connect with us:

• facebook.com/malphursgroup
• instagram.com/malphursgroup
• youtube.com/themalphursgroup
• x.com/malphursgroup