The Holy Spirit has been putting great emphasis on the use of small groups for discipleship, outreach and other purposes. This is not surprising, especially when you consider that there are so many commands in the New Testament relating to things we do "one to another". How can we love one another as Jesus loved his disciples (John 13:34,35) unless there is an environment in which close relationships can develop?

Over the years I have known people who believe that home based churches should NOT have leaders. I don't know where people get this idea from. Its certainly not to be found in the Bible. Even in the New Testament, there were all kinds of leaders - apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, elders, deacons. What these words mean may be explored later, but for now, lets observe that these kind of roles, as well as other ministry gifts, did exist in the church.