And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and he healed them. Matthew 4:23-24
Our small group Bible study classes are at the heart of Crabapple’s ministry. Our society is looking for the kind of community connectedness and the opportunity to form close-knit relationships that these groups provide. In addition, this ministry performs vital functions in the life of the church. These functions include reaching out to the community, teaching God’s Word, ministering to fellow believers and non-believers, and connecting people to ministry.
Reaching People
Classes are the hub of our church outreach efforts. There we pray for unbelievers, hold one another accountable for sharing the Gospel, and organize to connect with those who have visited our church or are in our personal sphere of influence. All of our Sunday morning classes are open groups, meaning that new folks are welcome to join and become a part at any time.
Teaching People
As a church, we are committed to proclaiming and teaching the Word of God. From children's classes to senior adult classes, the Bible is the focus of all teaching. In adult classes, for example, we follow a study method that takes us through the Scripture chapter-by-chapter, book-by-book. We believe that systematic study of the Word of God is one means by which God transforms believers more and more into the image of His Son.
Ministering to People
The nature of small groups allows for more focused ministry to individuals in need--ministry that might otherwise neglected or even lost otherwise. The folks you connect with in your Sunday morning class will be with you through the good times and the bad. Whether they are bringing meals to your home after you've had a baby or praying with you for a loved-one at the ICU, you will come to count on the people in your small group for ministry and you will have a chance to minister to others yourself.
Connecting People
At Crabapple, we want to help maturing believers move beyond themselves and find ways to get plugged into service for God's kingdom. Every member has a role in the body of Christ and Sunday school can be a place where you discover opportunities to put your desires and spiritual gifting to use.