Another key factor that positively impacts multiplication is making new contacts. I’m referring here to contact with non-Christians or unchurched people. The critera was simply “new contacts.” The survey showed that cell leaders who contact five to seven new people per month have an 80% chance of multiplying the cell group!
Now, the survey was mainly focused on the cell leader making the contacts but the same principle applies to group members.
The reality is that we reap what we sow. Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Many groups behave as if people will unexpantantly just walk in the door. They act like a farmer hoping that an unexpected crop will show up in the summer without any seed sowing or preparation. No, Scripture is clear that we reap what we sow.
One tool that will get your cell leaders and members thinking about reaching out and making contact is Dave Earley’s 8 Habits of Effective Small Group Leaders. This book offers practical tips and suggestions to evangelize and invite new people to the group. I highly recommend it. My book Share: Make Christ Real to Others is another one that you’ll want to place in the hands of your cell members.
Comments?
Joel
P.S.: If you’re interested in seeing the 29-question handout that was given to 700 cell leaders (as well as the general summaries), click here. If you’d like to see all the statistical details,click here