As Methodists, we believe that the goal of Christian faith is for people to be renewed in the image of God in holiness of heart and life. We call this distinctive doctrine and goal “Christian perfection” or “entire sanctification”—the idea that we can be so full of love for God and neighbor that sin no longer reigns in us, and we can live, speak, and act more like Jesus.
From the beginning of the Methodist movement, the “method” for growing Christians who perfectly love God and neighbor has been through discipling small groups called Class Meetings and Band meetings.
- How is your life with God?
- What are your struggles and successes?
- How might the Spirit and the Scriptures be speaking into your life?
The primary curriculum for the Class Meeting is the life of each person in the group, joined together in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. These groups are open and inviting, focused on connecting people to one another and to Christ.
Band meetings are smaller and more intensive (3-5 people of the same gender), focused on confession of sin and accountability. Members of the band meeting meet weekly to answer questions like:
- What sins have you committed since we last met?
- What temptations have you faced? How have you overcome them?
- What secrets are you keeping?
The Band Meeting represents a deeper level of intimacy and commitment and is thus not for everyone. For those who choose to become part of a band, however, the focus on confession and holiness can be transformational.
Most people will choose to start in a Class Meeting. Some may choose later to form a Band Meeting as the Spirit leads. We encourage you to choose the group that is best for you, but we also encourage you to get connected to a discipleship small group. This is the real “method in Methodism” and the best way for us to grow in love of God and neighbor, becoming more like Jesus each day.
Below are some frequently asked questions on small groups, specifically Class Meetings.
- Why Class Meetings at TLUMC?
A: Here at TLUMC, we want to reinvigorate Small Group Ministry as a key part of our discipleship journey toward Holiness. Our TLUMC Mission is: “To build followers of Jesus Christ who Love and Serve God and Neighbor”.
- If I sign up for Class Meetings, do I have to move to a Band Meeting?
A: No. Each meeting is separate from each other and do not require the other. Joining either the Class or Band Meeting is a personal decision in your discipleship journey and where you feel the Lord is leading you.
- What days and times do the Class Meetings meet? When is the last day to sign up by?
A: The Class Leaders will select the time and date for their meetings. You can sign up based on time they meet or comfort level with the team membership. Last day to sign up is when each team have finalized their members.
- How often do they meet? Do I have to commit to attend all meetings?
A: Each team lead will have the opportunity to decide how often they meet. The Discipleship Committee recommends at least once a week, for the initial three weeks, to discover where each person is in his or her relationship with God and where is God calling him or her to grow in faith and love.
- Who can join? How do I sign up?
A: Anyone can join regardless of age or marital status. You can participate as a couple or single. This is an opportunity to connect with fellow believers and share your journey to grow in Christ. You can volunteer yourself and a group, identify those you feel comfortable sharing with; or the Discipleship Committee will help form groups. Anyone interested in at least exploring the possibility of being a member of a Small Group, or a Small Group Leader, can sign up on the Class Meetings tab on the TLUMC website.
Class Meeting Small Group Workshop
Led by Pastor Bob Kaylor
Sunday, January 23rd
4:00 - 6:00 PM in the Lower Level
Dinner Provided
Pastor Bob will talk about the origins and purpose of class meetings and give you a chance to experience one during the workshop. This workshop is for all those interested in joining a Class Meeting Small Group either as a member or a leader.
