“I’m not sure that applies to me. I only lead a small youth group,” a youth leader once said to me. As she spoke, she looked down in shame, as if she were confessing some deep shortfall.
Working at Dare 2 Share, I have the unique opportunity to interact with youth leaders from around the world, and it always breaks my heart to hear comments like the one above when we’re discussing youth ministry strategy. While it’s great to want to grow the size of your group to reach more teenagers for Jesus, it’s unfortunate that we’ve somehow created a culture of shame around smaller youth groups.
My constant prayer is that every youth leader would remember the incredible value of what they’re doing, regardless of the number of students they disciple.
Leading a smaller-sized youth group (between 1 and 15 students) can be very rewarding. It provides an opportunity for deeper connections, personalized discipleship, and a focused environment where young people can grow in their faith.
But the challenge lies in keeping the group vibrant, focused on the Gospel, and equipped to impact their community. A Gospel Advancing youth ministry is one that is not only growing in spiritual maturity but is also actively engaging with the message of Jesus, both within the group and in the students’ wider spheres of influence.
Here’s how you can lead a small Gospel Advancing youth group effectively:
1. Creatively make the Gospel central to everything.
The foundation of a Gospel Advancing youth group must be the Gospel itself, but if it’s constantly presented in the same way in a small group it can get tuned out pretty easily. Whether you’re meeting for Bible study, having group discussions, or engaging in service projects, always point back to the Gospel—in a creative way.
- Use Gospel segues. Be creative in how you transition to the Gospel and how you explain the Gospel. Spend a little time thinking of illustrations and props that could help the students understand the message in a different way.
- Teach Gospel-rooted lessons. Create Bible studies or use our free curriculum that highlight key elements of the Gospel, such as salvation, grace, forgiveness, and the character of Christ.
- Model the Gospel in your own life. As a leader, your life should reflect the message you’re teaching. Share stories with your group about how you’ve shared the Gospel with your adult friends, and they’ll sense the sincere commitment you have. Be transparent about the fears, challenges, and progress you’re experiencing in your journey, and you’ll become a powerful example to the youth in your group.
2. Foster genuine community.
Small groups offer an invaluable opportunity to cultivate authentic, tight-knit community. In a small group, each member is more likely to be seen and heard, which can lead to deeper relationships.
- Encourage vulnerability. Create an environment where young people feel safe sharing their thoughts, struggles, and experiences. This allows the group to function as a true community—one that walks through life together.
- Invest in relationships. Take the time to personally connect with each group member. Whether through one-on-one conversations, shared activities, or just casual hangouts, make your relationships a priority. When youth feel personally invested in, they’re more likely to open up and grow spiritually.
- Pray together regularly. Prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your community. Pray for each other’s needs, growth, and personal journeys. As a leader, lead the group in prayers that reflect the Gospel message—asking for strength to live out the faith and opportunities to share it with others, as well as offering up intercessory prayers for specific people.
3. Be intentional about discipleship.
One of the greatest benefits of a smaller group is the ability to disciple each individual more personally. Discipleship in a small group can be very relational, focused on walking alongside each person as they grow in their faith.
- Personalize discipleship. Spend time with each student, ask questions about their spiritual life, and offer mentorship. Help them identify areas where they need to grow, encourage them to pursue deeper study of God’s Word, and discuss how they can share the Good News with specific friends.
- Use the Word of God. Teach teens how to study the Bible for themselves, ask good questions, and apply God’s Word to their everyday lives.
- Develop leadership. In a smaller group, there are plenty of opportunities to involve the youth in leading. Empower them to lead prayers, give Bible lessons, or organize group activities. Ask for their input as you plan gatherings and events to help you be more effective in reaching teens.
By keeping the Gospel at the center, fostering relationships, and encouraging deep discipleship, you can help young people not only grow in their faith but also prepare them to live it out boldly—no matter the size of your group.
