Making Your Small Group Work Tip 5

Tip 5: Asking Good Questions

Definition:
There are two types of questions you should ask during your group meetings. They are questions that:
• Discover more information (information exchange)
• Explore experience (thoughts, feelings, etc.)

Biblical reference:
• Proverbs 20:5—“The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.”

Why it’s important:
• Helps you get to know the person
• Shows interest in their life
• Helps them tell their story
• Provides dialogue
• Helps the person understand themselves better

Examples of asking questions that . . .
• Discover more information—the facts:
– Tell me more about that . . .
– Where did you grow up?
– Where do you work?
• Explore experience—thoughts and feelings:
– What did that feel like?
– How was your relationship with your parents?
– How did that relationship make you feel?
– What do you think about that?
– What was that like for you?

Share Your Thoughts

Has your group struggled in this area? Share your stories and tips with fellow small group leaders in the comments section below.