What do you think?
Rate this book
Leading Small Groups: How to Gather, Launch, Lead, and Multiply Your Small Group
Leading a small group can literally change the world.
We have been commissioned to make disciples who make disciples, and Jesus showed us that the best way to carry that out is through small groups of believers. Just like the first-century church, small groups form the foundation to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Chris Surratt, Discipleship and Small Groups Specialist for Lifeway Christian Resources, and author of Small Groups for the Rest of Us , wants to help you get from here to there.
Regardless of whether you have never lead a small group or have been leading one for years, all of us want to know how to create environments where spiritual growth takes place and communities are changed. Leading Small Groups walks the reader through the stages of gathering, launching, leading, and multiplying a gospel-centered small group. There are also follow-up questions for discussion and reflection at the end of each section, and practical resources that can be implemented immediately by the small group leader.
Jesus left his followers with a task—the Great Commission. This book will help small group leaders and churches in their obedience to this task.
We have been commissioned to make disciples who make disciples, and Jesus showed us that the best way to carry that out is through small groups of believers. Just like the first-century church, small groups form the foundation to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Chris Surratt, Discipleship and Small Groups Specialist for Lifeway Christian Resources, and author of Small Groups for the Rest of Us , wants to help you get from here to there.
Regardless of whether you have never lead a small group or have been leading one for years, all of us want to know how to create environments where spiritual growth takes place and communities are changed. Leading Small Groups walks the reader through the stages of gathering, launching, leading, and multiplying a gospel-centered small group. There are also follow-up questions for discussion and reflection at the end of each section, and practical resources that can be implemented immediately by the small group leader.
Jesus left his followers with a task—the Great Commission. This book will help small group leaders and churches in their obedience to this task.
- GenresChristianNonfiction
208 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2019
34 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 10, 2024
Lots of good practical advice. Not much on the theology/exegetical side, but great observational data and analysis on how to form, maintain, and disband groups.
July 26, 2025
Good hands-on resource on the practicalities of starting and leading a small group.
May 22, 2019
Book review: Leading Small Groups: How to Gather, Launch, Lead and Multiply Your Small Group
Book places too many unrealistic expectations on group members
In his new book, “Leading Small Groups: How to Gather, Launch, Lead and Multiply Your Small Group,” Chris Surratt draws from his own personal experience as a small group leader on how he would form a small group.
Published by B&H Publishing, his 208-page book is broken down into four sections covering the aforementioned areas in the subtitle. While Surratt offers some sound advice, his book seemed to be more about controlling group members than allowing them to be led by the Spirit of God.
In fact, there are so many suggestions on what members should do that it actually could border on legalism, which would definitely drive many away and completely defeat the purpose of a small group. Surratt seems to be telling members what they should do and not do, instead of what they can do on a volunteer basis.
In addition, Surratt places far too many unrealistic expectations on group members that go beyond the normal boundaries and objectives of a small group.
For example, Surratt suggests “Make the Ask” (page 56-57) via an in-person invitation or e-mail, which is fine. But then he tells other members: “Don’t expect or even ask for a commitment (to the group) on the spot. If they decide to commit, that’s great!
“But most people will need time to think and pray about it before deciding. Let them know you will check back in a week…The right season of life or circumstances will come along for them to need the community you are offering through your group. Don’t give up!”
What?!! How can the leader possibly know people will need what their group has to offer? In addition, if they don’t want to join the group, that’s their decision. Just leave them alone and stop bothering them.
Besides, if you don’t stop bothering them, it could result in some unexpected and unforeseen consequences: they could end up gossiping about and bad-mouthing your group as well as your church. If they want to be a part of the group, it should happen naturally and by the Spirit of God. They shouldn’t be harassed into joining a group if they don’t want to anyway.
Another example of this aspect of controlling or, albeit, corralling group members is when Surratt discusses implementing a ‘Group Covenant (page 64).” Like required church membership, people should not have to sign anything. It should be of their own volition to join the group and they should not feel obligated to contractually do so.
While establishing certain boundaries and objections is understandable, there should also be an element of grace. People should be able to decide for themselves if a certain group is right for them and be not forced to sign a document.
Yet, another example that probably bothered me just as much, if not more, is Surratt’s suggestion that group members sit in church together (page 70). They need to be with their families during the service, not their group members.
They also should not be obligated to participate in a group member’s family outings (i.e., attending a member’s child’s games to cheer them on) or many of the other suggested activities.
The truth is, this may be too inappropriate for some members and go beyond the personal boundaries of the group. The point is you should never impose yourself on anyone’s personal space or presume members want to interact with you outside of a group meeting.
Nor, do you want to pick and choose who gets invited to a group. For instance, specific groups, such as men’s Bible studies, can easily turn into gentlemen’s clubs where cliques are formed, and other men get ignored.
Another concern with the book is when he discusses practicing genuine authenticity (page 99), where he talks about being transparent within the group. If someone wants to talk about their sin, they should be able to do it privately without being coerced into sharing it with the group.
Still, other problems with the book are expecting every member to conform to a specific Bible translation or theology (page 127); expecting the group to multiply (page 137) when that should never be the goal of starting small groups. It should never be what some call “purpose-driven.”
Once more, small groups should never be obligated to meet during the summer and especially on holidays, which borderlines on invading someone’s time and personal space (page 164).
In addition, members of small again should never be expected or obligated to hang out together outside the group and “go to a ball game, Enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks together,” much less “go on a short-term missions trip” with one another (page 164-65). Plus, since Christians should not be celebrating Halloween, they should not be expected to “use an October group meeting to have a pumpkin carving contest (page 165).”
Lastly, small group members should not be expected to act like children by showing their “Play-Dough Personality (page 177)”.
While Surratt’s heart is in the right place, his book falls short of its intended goal. With the inundation of small group books already on the Christian market, there is one that would likely be far more appropriate and beneficial to those who wish to lead small groups.
I gave it a 2 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
Book places too many unrealistic expectations on group members
In his new book, “Leading Small Groups: How to Gather, Launch, Lead and Multiply Your Small Group,” Chris Surratt draws from his own personal experience as a small group leader on how he would form a small group.
Published by B&H Publishing, his 208-page book is broken down into four sections covering the aforementioned areas in the subtitle. While Surratt offers some sound advice, his book seemed to be more about controlling group members than allowing them to be led by the Spirit of God.
In fact, there are so many suggestions on what members should do that it actually could border on legalism, which would definitely drive many away and completely defeat the purpose of a small group. Surratt seems to be telling members what they should do and not do, instead of what they can do on a volunteer basis.
In addition, Surratt places far too many unrealistic expectations on group members that go beyond the normal boundaries and objectives of a small group.
For example, Surratt suggests “Make the Ask” (page 56-57) via an in-person invitation or e-mail, which is fine. But then he tells other members: “Don’t expect or even ask for a commitment (to the group) on the spot. If they decide to commit, that’s great!
“But most people will need time to think and pray about it before deciding. Let them know you will check back in a week…The right season of life or circumstances will come along for them to need the community you are offering through your group. Don’t give up!”
What?!! How can the leader possibly know people will need what their group has to offer? In addition, if they don’t want to join the group, that’s their decision. Just leave them alone and stop bothering them.
Besides, if you don’t stop bothering them, it could result in some unexpected and unforeseen consequences: they could end up gossiping about and bad-mouthing your group as well as your church. If they want to be a part of the group, it should happen naturally and by the Spirit of God. They shouldn’t be harassed into joining a group if they don’t want to anyway.
Another example of this aspect of controlling or, albeit, corralling group members is when Surratt discusses implementing a ‘Group Covenant (page 64).” Like required church membership, people should not have to sign anything. It should be of their own volition to join the group and they should not feel obligated to contractually do so.
While establishing certain boundaries and objections is understandable, there should also be an element of grace. People should be able to decide for themselves if a certain group is right for them and be not forced to sign a document.
Yet, another example that probably bothered me just as much, if not more, is Surratt’s suggestion that group members sit in church together (page 70). They need to be with their families during the service, not their group members.
They also should not be obligated to participate in a group member’s family outings (i.e., attending a member’s child’s games to cheer them on) or many of the other suggested activities.
The truth is, this may be too inappropriate for some members and go beyond the personal boundaries of the group. The point is you should never impose yourself on anyone’s personal space or presume members want to interact with you outside of a group meeting.
Nor, do you want to pick and choose who gets invited to a group. For instance, specific groups, such as men’s Bible studies, can easily turn into gentlemen’s clubs where cliques are formed, and other men get ignored.
Another concern with the book is when he discusses practicing genuine authenticity (page 99), where he talks about being transparent within the group. If someone wants to talk about their sin, they should be able to do it privately without being coerced into sharing it with the group.
Still, other problems with the book are expecting every member to conform to a specific Bible translation or theology (page 127); expecting the group to multiply (page 137) when that should never be the goal of starting small groups. It should never be what some call “purpose-driven.”
Once more, small groups should never be obligated to meet during the summer and especially on holidays, which borderlines on invading someone’s time and personal space (page 164).
In addition, members of small again should never be expected or obligated to hang out together outside the group and “go to a ball game, Enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks together,” much less “go on a short-term missions trip” with one another (page 164-65). Plus, since Christians should not be celebrating Halloween, they should not be expected to “use an October group meeting to have a pumpkin carving contest (page 165).”
Lastly, small group members should not be expected to act like children by showing their “Play-Dough Personality (page 177)”.
While Surratt’s heart is in the right place, his book falls short of its intended goal. With the inundation of small group books already on the Christian market, there is one that would likely be far more appropriate and beneficial to those who wish to lead small groups.
I gave it a 2 out of 5 stars.
Full disclosure: In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, I received this book free through B&H Publishing. My opinions are my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review.
© 2019 by Doug S., M.A.
April 9, 2021
Based on biblical principles all throughout. Very practical about leading small groups; basically a step by step guide, from the initial desire to starting a group to ending and/or multiplying it.
Although not directly written for the type of devotion groups im accustomed to leading, much of this book is still applicable and relevant.
4.4/5
Although not directly written for the type of devotion groups im accustomed to leading, much of this book is still applicable and relevant.
4.4/5
May 19, 2019
Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt is a short volume with practical advice for forming and maintaining small groups. It answers questions such as, "what is a small group leader?" and how to recruit, start and lead a small group. It is intended for the leader of a small group.
Here is my honest opinion about this book. There are too many books on this subject already, but I decided to give a try (although I have already read my fair share of books on this subject). I have led small groups before and have learned through lots of trial and error. Many of the points discussed here, I have learned through experience. While I appreciate the intent behind this book, I didn't get much from it or found anything groundbreaking. I also did not like the fact that this book came across as a self-help book. There are too many human strategies discussed here as though, small groups grow from human effort and not by allowing God to take control. Of course, there has to be some structure but the foundation of it should rest upon allowing God to move within the group instead of trying to manipulate it. However, I do appreciate the small nuggets of truth here and there.
I received a copy of this book from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Here is my honest opinion about this book. There are too many books on this subject already, but I decided to give a try (although I have already read my fair share of books on this subject). I have led small groups before and have learned through lots of trial and error. Many of the points discussed here, I have learned through experience. While I appreciate the intent behind this book, I didn't get much from it or found anything groundbreaking. I also did not like the fact that this book came across as a self-help book. There are too many human strategies discussed here as though, small groups grow from human effort and not by allowing God to take control. Of course, there has to be some structure but the foundation of it should rest upon allowing God to move within the group instead of trying to manipulate it. However, I do appreciate the small nuggets of truth here and there.
I received a copy of this book from B&H in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
May 31, 2019
Leading Small Groups is an inspiring resource that encourages us to put aside all of the overwhelming notions that we sometimes associate with the word “leader” and approach our roles as good shepherds who lead like Jesus did (compassionately, from the heart, from the front and sacrificially).
The author addresses a wide range of topics that will be of interest to both new, growing and seasoned leaders, such as:
* Launching Your Small Group
* Facilitating Your Small Group Meetings
* Practicing Genuine Authenticity
* Developing A Bible Study
* Avoiding Group Killers
The book also contains several useful resources including sample Small Group Covenants, Icebreakers, and Forms.
What I like most about this book is the Questions to Think About at the end of each chapter. The inclusion of these chapters make this a great book to use as a Small Group Training Resource for new and existing leaders!
I highly recommend this book to you!
This excerpt is taken from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
The author addresses a wide range of topics that will be of interest to both new, growing and seasoned leaders, such as:
* Launching Your Small Group
* Facilitating Your Small Group Meetings
* Practicing Genuine Authenticity
* Developing A Bible Study
* Avoiding Group Killers
The book also contains several useful resources including sample Small Group Covenants, Icebreakers, and Forms.
What I like most about this book is the Questions to Think About at the end of each chapter. The inclusion of these chapters make this a great book to use as a Small Group Training Resource for new and existing leaders!
I highly recommend this book to you!
This excerpt is taken from the original review that is published on my blog. To read my review in its entirety, please visit Create With Joy.
July 19, 2019
Whether you’re wanting to join a small group or begin leading a small group, Chris Surratt’s Leading Small Groups: How to Gather, Launch, Lead and Multiply Your Small Group is an easy read you won’t want to miss. Throughout the book, Surratt discusses what has worked well for him as he’s led small groups. The book ranges from the details of gathering, starting, leading, or multiplying your small group. As Surratt talks about each section, he gives dos and don’ts and even shares his personal experience.
The book itself is laced with Scripture to encourage any reader, whether a small group attender or leader, to have an understanding of why small groups should exist and how small groups should operate.
I’m confident this book will be one I continually go back to since it’s not only full of Scripture, but also provides practical tips for any leader. He includes helpful resources as well like a sample small group covenant, icebreakers, a curriculum plan, a spiritual gift list, a small group roster/attendance sheet, and so much more!
The book itself is laced with Scripture to encourage any reader, whether a small group attender or leader, to have an understanding of why small groups should exist and how small groups should operate.
I’m confident this book will be one I continually go back to since it’s not only full of Scripture, but also provides practical tips for any leader. He includes helpful resources as well like a sample small group covenant, icebreakers, a curriculum plan, a spiritual gift list, a small group roster/attendance sheet, and so much more!
February 27, 2020
Good ideas on how to mix up your existing small groups. Some chapters might be irrelevant to how your church community does small groups but reading this book is like conversing with someone who does small groups in a totally different way than you do.
Read, get some ideas, try them out. I really appreciated Chapter 7 and the author's ideas on facilitating small group meetings. I didn't appreciate the author using "ask" as a noun.
Read, get some ideas, try them out. I really appreciated Chapter 7 and the author's ideas on facilitating small group meetings. I didn't appreciate the author using "ask" as a noun.
January 24, 2020
This is a good and helpful book that seems to target new group leaders and potential leaders. As someone who leads small groups and leads the leaders of small groups, I found it a helpful reminder of the vision and mission of this important ministry. I will likely recommend it to leaders who need just a bit more confidence as they take their first steps.
March 28, 2023
An excellent resource to any new or seasoned leader of a small group or small group ministry. Great advice is given by Chris including reminders about mentoring, discipleship, curriculum, starting new, child care, ending a group...almost anything you want to know about small groups is in this book. Many usable resources are in the appendix.
July 12, 2024
A helpful overview and refresher on some of the basics and pitfalls in leading small groups. I appreciated the emphasis on providing an environment for the Holy Spirit to work rather than basing success in gimmicks. The author offer some practical strategies for building community, developing leadership, serving together, and avoiding burnout. A quick and simple read, but a helpful how-to guide.
July 19, 2024
Very informative, I liked how the writer included his own experiences. It also helps anyone who is about to be a leader of a small group feel less intimidated and overwhelmed. Something I took from this book was how I didn’t need to know everything in order to lead a small group. I need to only be there and share the love of Christ.
March 3, 2020
An easy read to orientate a leader towards the why, what, and how of small groups. He does a good job of helping a leader think through discipleship, community, and service in a group. The appendix has some very helpful tools as well.
March 11, 2022
Super helpful and practical advice on starting and leading a community group. It’s also nice because it’s segmented in a way that lets you pick and choose what may be most helpful. I’m really glad my church switched to using this as a resource.
January 10, 2023
Made time to finish this amazing book! Helped calm my nerves. Thankful that a fellow introvert has gone through this before. Suggest having a highlighter on hand.
Highly recommend this book, if you are starting a Bible Study soon.
Highly recommend this book, if you are starting a Bible Study soon.
January 2, 2024
Very Helpful Resource for New Small Group Leaders!
Very practical and easy to use information! If you are planning on starting or improving small groups at your church then this is a good read!
Very practical and easy to use information! If you are planning on starting or improving small groups at your church then this is a good read!
October 21, 2025
Great practical book on leading small groups. Surratt is someone I respected dearly and had the pleasure of meeting a few times before his sudden passing. I am grateful for his kindness and wisdom, much of which was repeated in this book.
September 26, 2019
Not much new for me, but a helpful basic review of facilitating small groups.
April 6, 2020
Helpful for those who have never started or led a small group before. Very basic, practical information. Nothing very revealing or particularly insightful for developing small groups.
May 11, 2023
Some good ideas, but nothing groundbreaking.
December 23, 2024
A good primer for small group leadership. Nothing ground breaking.
June 9, 2021
This book will make a very encouraging tool to use on the training of Small Group leaders.
March 10, 2020
BEST BOOK I’VE EVER READ.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews