FOURS
WHAT IS A “FOUR”?
A four is group of four Christians who make a commitment to support each other. They will read and reflect on the Bible, pray for each other, share their prayer requests, struggles, insights and breakthroughs.
Why four people?
We have chosen 4 because we feel it’s more sustainable than a group of 3 — 3s can become awkward if one person can’t make it and it ends up 1-1. The limit is 4 people because the larger the group the longer it takes to build trust and generate real openness.
FOUR GOALS OF FOUR:
To provide an additional layer of specifically Christian support in the lives of those who want that the integration or synthesis of Christian faith into our day-to-day lives. To gain insight, guidance and practical-wisdom through simple corporate practices of Bible Reading.
Prayer & Discernment
That by committing to do this purposefully with others we will grow in consistency and confidence in a way we couldn’t on our own.
FEATURES:
Fours should be simple and lightweight — they shouldn’t get in the way of everyday life.
They are not another “church” thing people feel obliged to do.
They are about real life application. The output/context is the participants’ day to day lives.
They are not a place for in-depth theological study
They are free from forced/fake vulnerability.
They work best where there is an element of pre-existing relationship between members.
They can split and recruit if the members desire to do that.
PRACTICALITIES:
It’s important to let church know that a four group has started by filling in the “fours sign up” form. If there are any serious issues (e.g. you are deeply worried about someone’s wellbeing, or the wellbeing of others, from what is shared in a four session) it’s essential to share those concerns with a church leader. They will treat what you say with confidence unless there is a need to take further supportive action.
It’s important to let church know if your fours group has ended by filling in the “our four group has ended” form. Fours are not “led” or resourced the same way a Central Community is. But we still appreciate feedback and experiences that help us to develop and strengthen the format going forward.