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A MOMENT WITH SCOTT

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Dear Friends,

 

Several years ago, as we focused intentionally on revitalizing our Sunday School and small group ministry, I asked our leaders a simple but searching question: What’s the POINT?

 

The answer became a practical framework for strengthening our classes—P.O.I.N.T.: Prayer, Outreach, Inspiration, Nurture, Teaching. These five elements helped us think beyond simply “having a class” and toward building a balanced ministry.

 

• Prayer had to come first. How much time were we devoting to prayer in each session? Were we tracking requests and following up? A class that prays together grows together. Prayer is not a preliminary exercise before the “real” lesson; it is the spiritual engine of the group. We also discovered that prayer itself becomes a method of outreach. Contacting absentees, “stragglers,” or prospects simply to ask how we can pray for them—and then actually praying for them—opens doors for reconnection and care that few other approaches can match.

• Outreach challenged us to look outward—and to do so together. Outreach is not a solo assignment for the teacher; it is a shared calling of the class community. When members pray together, invite together, and serve together, the group develops a collective heart for those beyond its walls. A healthy class remembers that it exists not only for those already present but also for those who are not yet there.

• Inspiration reminded us of connection. Originally, the idea included encouraging participation in the larger worship life of the church. It also meant sharing testimonies, celebrating answered prayer, and strengthening spiritual momentum within the group. Inspiration builds the bridge between the small group and corporate worship.

• Nurture required intentional care. What happened when someone was absent, sick, or grieving? Were there fellowships and gatherings outside the lesson time? Nurture transforms a class from an audience into a family. It ensures that no one slips through unnoticed.

• Teaching remained central and sacred. The Word of God deserves adequate time and focused attention in every class session. The Word of God has power to change lives! Prayerful preparation by the teacher and thoughtful engagement by the class allow the Word to do its transforming work.

 

We discovered that the weekly format could vary—Sunday morning only, midweek gatherings, or seasonal studies—but the balance of these five elements was essential. A class heavy on teaching but light on nurture could feel cold. A group rich in fellowship but weak in outreach could stagnate. The POINT framework gave us a simple way to evaluate and strengthen each area.

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As we revisited these principles, we saw renewed clarity and energy in our small group ministry. The question proved helpful then—and it remains helpful now.

 

So let me ask it again: What’s the POINT?

 

As always, thank you for the privilege of partnering with you and your churches for renewal and revival in South Carolina!

 

Until next time,

 

Scott​​