3. Provide the biblical context for the cell meeting.
One error is for cell leaders to jump into the cell questions without reviewing the context of the Bible passage. The cell leader might believe that since the cell members were in the Sunday service, and since they heard the message, they have sufficient background to answer the questions. The truth is that members often forget or don’t understand the sermon. Most people receive immediate edification during a sermon, but they forget the sermon details. Before asking questions about the biblical passage, the cell members need to hear a short summary about the main points of the biblical passage. Afterwards, they will be better prepared to answer the questions.
4. Listen, listen, listen.
The best cell meeting leaders are great listeners! they talk 30% of the time and allow others to speak 70% of the time. They realize that the strength of the cell group is to convert each member into a minister, and the best way to do this is to allow people to share their understanding of the passage and even be willing to fail in the process. Listening makes this happen.
5. Don’t forget the “witness time.”
Every cell meeting leader runs out of time and many don’t focus on evangelism at the end of the group. Remember that cell members grow as they reach out. I don’t believe we can emphasize evangelism too much. New people need Jesus, and they need the community of a cell group. Cell members should exercise their muscles to get to know non-Christians and invite them to the group, and the final 15 minutes (normally called the “witness time”) helps in holding them accountable and even planning evangelistic activity.
6. Close after 1-1/2 hours.
Be spiritual and close on time! People have their own lives beyond the cell group, and they will be more willing to come back if they know the leader is sensitive to closing the meeting on time. And remember that fellowship after the cell group is vitally important. Personal ministry takes place during the refreshment time, and effective cell leaders make sure that people have enough time to hang out, rather than having to leave immediately because the leader didn’t close on time.
