People Over Programs: One-to-One Leadership That Keeps Small Groups Relational

Pastor Steve Gladen and Derek Olson discuss how small group ministry can drift from being people-focused to program-focused, and argue the most important question is how to keep relationships central. Steve emphasizes the power of one-to-one connection and offers practical ways to reach people beyond email, including texting, calling (with a heads-up text), being present to connect in person at church, sending notes, and even doing brief “pop-bys” with a small gift to create face-to-face contact. Once connected, he shares the SPEAK acrostic for knowing someone personally:Story, Passions, Encouragement (including love languages and key dates), Abilities (including the Benjamin Franklin effect), and Knowledge. He also introduces the “four helpful lists” for improving ministry: what’s working, what’s wrong, what’s confusing, and what’s missing. They close by promoting the May Lobby Gathering event for small group leaders.

https://smallgroupnetwork.com

00:00 Welcome to SG Squared
01:11 Episode Preview
02:05 People Over Programs
03:01 Power of One to One
05:17 How to Reach People
06:29 Lobby Lurker and Pop By
10:43 SPEAK Acrostic
12:47 Encouragement and Dates
14:57 Abilities and Franklin Effect
19:23 Four Helpful List
23:14 Final Challenge and Wrap
25:18 Lobby Gathering Invite
26:59 Subscribe and Resources