Spark Group Defined

Spark Group – A group of Christ’s followers united in prayer and mission to demonstrate and declare the gospel of Jesus and make disciples from within a specific people group.

Group – Spark Groups consist of two or more people.  They are a community.  One person acting as a missionary on campus is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless you have two or more people.

Christ’s Followers – Spark Groups are centered on the person of Jesus Christ. They exist for Him. Gathering for socials, recreation, or activism is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless Jesus’ mission is the purpose for your group.

United in Prayer and Mission – Spark Groups merge prayer and mission.  They are equally committed to both.  Participating in a prayer group or a Bible study is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless you are praying for a mission and obediently living out that mission. 

Demonstrate the Gospel - Spark Groups demonstrate the gospel by their lives.  They show the power of the gospel without words.  Outreach events and mass evangelism is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless your lives are seen as evidence of the gospel.

Declare the Gospel – Spark Groups declare the gospel with words.  They initiate conversations about Jesus, giving people in their community opportunities to put their faith in Him.  Acts of service and loving people is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless you are sharing the gospel with words.

The Gospel of Jesus - Spark Groups share the orthodox, historical gospel of Jesus.  They tell of the sinfulness of all men and the redemption offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Social reform and community transformation is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless the gospel you share is the gospel of Jesus.

Make Disciples - Spark Groups make disciples.  They teach their community how to follow Jesus.  Making converys is not enough.  You are not a Spark Group unless your aim is to teach people how to obey Jesus’ commands.

From within a Specific People Group - Spark Groups embed themselves within a specific people group on campus. People groups have common interests, common experiences, and a common language. People groups spend a lot of time together.  randon evangelism is not enough, nor is an effort to reach an undefined community.  You are not a Spark Group unless you are actively a part of a specific community on campus comprised of mostly unbelievers.