LG Guide September 2026 | L2L Chapter 2: A Space to be Known and Loved
Chapter 2
Scripture and modern science show that we are made for relationships and that we grow and thrive as we experience being “known and loved” as we share our stories in a safe, loving environment. Sharing our stories develops trust, enabling us to experience emotional healing and grow in empathy for others. It also helps to change our perspective on our past and our expectations for the future. All of this is key to spiritual transformation.
This is why our Small Groups are structured as sermon-based discussions rather than “bible studies.” We want people to process their own lives and stories through the context of the weekend sermon. The discussion guide frames conversations for people to experience being “known and loved” through the sharing of their stories in the context of the weekend sermon.
Relational Discipleship in Sermon-Based Small Groups: Doing My Part
How do we help one another to experience being known and loved? Think S.L.A.P.P.!
START conversations so people can tell their stories using the Small Group discussion guide. The guide provides a discussion starter to allow people to share their stories.
LISTEN. Practice Incarnational Listening (A.I.R.). One of the best ways to make someone feel “known and loved” is by listening deeply. As we listen, we “enter into” their experience with them so they no longer feel alone in their story.
ATTEND to the person who is sharing. Give the speaker your undivided attention.
INVITE them to reflect and share more deeply by asking clarifying questions. This shows that you are listening and that you sincerely care.
REFLECT to make them “feel felt.” Rather than giving advice, ask questions that help them to feel “heard” and “felt.”
Ex. “What I heard you say was…” “I imagine you must be feeling…” “I’m so sorry to hear that. That must be so difficult…” “Tell me more about that…”
Ex. “What do you think God is telling you to do?” “How do you think you can apply the Word to your situation?
ASK follow-up questions so that people can process further and share more deeply. Often, people will only scratch the surface when they share. Follow-up questions invite them to share more deeply.
PRAY Often, the best thing we can do for one another is to pray for each other. Instead of advice, offer prayer and invite the Spirit to speak to the person.
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16 NIV)
PROCLAIM the truth from the sermon or discussion guide that applies to their situation. Graciously direct people to Scripture for their circumstances.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
What of the above points in S.L.A.P.P stood out to you? Which do you most need to apply?
Have you shared your story in a Small Group? How has it helped you heal and grow?
How have you experienced transformation as you processed life in a Small Group? Explain.
Practice S.L.A.P.P. with one another on the topic: “What is the greatest challenge in your life right now?” What did you learn about each other and the experience?
