Church Growth Through Small Groups - Adam Ehrlichman | Revitalize My Church Podcast | Ep 12
Building Effective Small Groups: A Conversation with Adam Ehrlichman
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of small group ministry with Adam Ehrlichman, founder of Build Groups and experienced church ministry leader. Adam shares his expertise on implementing and strengthening small group ministries in churches of all sizes, offering practical insights for church leaders looking to enhance their community-building efforts.
About Adam Ehrlichman
Founded Build Groups five years ago, now serving as a full-time consultant helping churches develop small group ministries
Originally from Pennsylvania, now based in Dallas, Texas
Experienced dramatic church growth through small groups, seeing ministries double in size annually over six years at two different churches
Currently part of a church planting team and serving as a co-vocational pastor
What exactly is a small groups ministry in church?
Adam emphasizes that while small groups can look different depending on church context and location, they serve as the primary mechanism for:
Building community and relationships within the local church
Providing theological instruction and biblical literacy
Mobilizing people to serve and engage in mission
What framework should I use to build a successful small groups ministry?
Adam introduces his six-part framework for healthy small groups ministry:
Starting New Groups (The Three D's)
Discover new leaders
Develop their skills
Deploy them into ministry
Strengthening Groups (The Three C's)
Connect people into groups
Coach leaders ongoing
Care for the souls of all participants
What does the Bible say about small groups?
Four essential elements based on Acts 2:42-47:
Fellowship
Growth through biblical content
Service opportunities
Gospel sharing and multiplication
What are the different types of small groups I can start in my church?
Adam identifies three primary group orientations:
Informational (content/teaching focused)
Relational (community focused)
Missional (outreach focused)
What's the difference between Sunday School and small groups?
The conversation explores how these two ministry models can complement each other:
Sunday School Characteristics
More content-driven
Approximately 70% teacher speaking, 30% group participation
Provides a safer entry point for newcomers
Structured, classroom-style setting
Small Group Characteristics
More relationship-focused
Approximately 30% leader speaking, 70% group participation
Enables deeper relationships and vulnerability
Creates space for more intimate community
What are the benefits of having a small groups ministry?
Organizational Benefits
Increases engagement across all church ministries
Improves volunteer recruitment and quality
Boosts giving (research shows $2,500-3,000 annual increase per family unit)
Creates more leadership development opportunities
Individual Benefits
Provides practical training in handling disagreement
Develops conversational skills needed for evangelism
Offers multiple entry points for service and leadership
Creates deeper community connections
How do I develop leaders for small groups?
Adam emphasizes three key phases:
Pick potential leaders
Prepare them thoroughly
Place them in leadership roles
Common mistake: Churches often skip the preparation phase, leading to struggles with leader retention and group health.
How do I start a small groups ministry from scratch?
Key principles for launch:
Begin with developing leaders before forming groups
Set initial qualification barriers low but provide clear pathways for growth
Focus on leader preparation before adding group members
Use a structured training process (Adam recommends 5 months of preparation)
What results can I expect from a healthy small groups ministry?
Churches using Build Groups' approach typically see:
98% retention rate from semester to semester
Increased engagement across all ministry areas
Stronger leader development pipeline
More sustainable group growth
Where can I find resources for small groups ministry?
Build Groups website: buildgroups.net
Group Leader Training book
Framework for small groups ministry development
How can I connect with Adam Ehrlichman?
Website: buildgroups.net
Social Media: Adam Ehrlichman on Facebook
This episode provides valuable insights for church leaders considering starting or strengthening their small groups ministry. Adam's practical framework and emphasis on leader development offer a clear pathway for churches of any size to build healthy, sustainable small group communities.