If Jesus was invited to start (or join) a small group, and refused, it probably would have more to do with the way we run and lead our churches than how we manage our small group ministries. A small group ministry can reflect Jesus if it's leadership models Christ-like behavior. I have seen it time and again in our groups:

• We have small group leaders passionate about reaching children and families so they’ve started inter-generational small groups and invite people in their neighborhood.

• We have leaders who are excited about helping the poor and they organize their entire group ministry to put together hundreds of gift bags, winter clothing and non-perishables.

• We have entire men's groups volunteer to strip, mop, and wax the floors of a local soup kitchen.

• Some small groups feed the hungry and volunteer to distribute food once per month at a local food pantry.

• We have a woman's group that feeds needy single moms dinner for an entire week as they learn parenting skills to aid them as new mothers.

• Other groups are passionate about reaching their friends and host "fight nights" where they invite their neighborhood friends to meet their church friends and watch boxing or UFC fights.

All of the above ideas are dependent upon how much your church will limit or restrict its leaders. In the Great Commission, Jesus told us to reach the world, but he also instructed us to teach disciples to obey everything he had commanded. Teach them the Bible, show them how to evangelize and turn them loose. If you do that, along with directing and encouraging them in areas they’re passionate about, then you set your church and the kingdom up for a win.