Jesus’ command to make disciples (Matthew 28:19) wasn’t reserved merely for pastors and those in professional ministry. It is the responsibility of every believer to be involved in some way in the process of making the Gospel known and helping other believers grow and mature in the faith. D-Groups provide an opportunity to be INTENTIONAL in pouring our lives into the lives of others for the sake of helping others grow in their faith while at the same time growing in our walk with Jesus as well.
What is a D-Group?
Those in a D-Group can expect to be challenged in their walk with Christ, build long-lasting relationships, and see immense growth in their spiritual discipline.
Groups should usually be comprised of 3 to 5 people of the same gender (men with men, women with women)
Groups should meet regularly, preferably every week, but at the very least every other week.
Groups challenge members to memorize scripture, spend time in the word and in prayer daily, share their faith with non-believers, and be open and honest about their struggles in life for the sake of God's kingdom and growing into the image of Christ
(Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Psalm 119:11; Colossians 3:15), (Joshua 1:8; Philippians 4:6), (Matthew 28:16-20),(James 5:16).
Discipleship Newsletter
We want to provide disciples of Jesus with resources and encouragement to live, love, and walk like Jesus. Sign up, and you will receive a monthly email focused on discipleship content.
How do I become a part of a D-Group?
Connect
Get connected in a larger ministry within the church (ex. Community groups, Women’s/Men’s Ministries, Young Adult, Serving, etc.) to begin forming relationships with others in the church.
Form
Find 3-4 other people who you would want to walk in accountable relationships from your larger connecting points. Reach out to everyone and decide who will be the leader of that group.
Walk
Begin walking in accountable relationships together. The leader will register your group and receive an email packet with the materials for “Discipleship Essentials” (with guided training videos) and a Book Study of Colossians.
Pray
Pray about starting to lead your own D-Group and who you will disciple after your group has finished meeting together. To begin this process, it may be helpful to reconnect in larger areas of ministry to meet people whom you will disciple.
FAQs
If your question is not answered here or you’d like to discuss something further, please email mariah@redemptionutah.com for any questions regarding your D-Groups!
What if I don’t know anyone and want to be in a D-Group?
If you are not currently plugged in anywhere in the church, we encourage you to get connected in a community group, serving team, men’s or women’s ministries, or with young adults. If after joining one of these, you have no connections, reach out to the Discipleship Coordinator to see if any groups are starting that might have space and work for you.
How long are the meeting times?
This will depend on the size and dynamics of your group. In “Essentials,” there is a group-time outline that helps you steward your time as a group. Typically, it is best to plan for 1 1⁄2-2 hours.
How long should the group last?
To get through “Discipleship Essentials” and the Book Study of Colossians, it will take at least 4 months (this is if you meet weekly). It is highly encouraged that after that, your group chooses another book of the Bible to study together. With that, a typical group will meet together for 6 to 12 months. Feel free to continue past a year of meetings. However, it is highly encouraged that everyone go and start their group afterwards.
Do we have to go through this material or can we choose our own?
If you are doing Discipleship groups at Redemption Church, this will be the material you go through (“Discipleship Essentials” and a Book Study of Colossians). After finishing that material, your group is encouraged to choose a book of the Bible to walk through using your exegetical Bible study tools.