Small groups as a key to missions in Japan
Three organizations joined forces to host a small-group online seminar on October 10, 2020. Seisho wo Yomu Kai (SYK) [Bible Study Group Ministries], Scripture Union Japan (SUJ), and Wycliffe Bible Translators Japan (WBTJ) organized the seminar based on the common vision that small groups would play a key role in mission in Japan. The seminar featured four keynote speakers, followed by a time of sharing in small groups.
Yoshiya Matsumaru, General Secretary of WBTJ, observed how God has spoken through different translations of the Bible in order to reach everyone in every language of every age. Matsumaru believes that sharing the grace and mercy you have received through Scripture in your mother tongue can lead to deeper experiences of blessing.
Takashi Fukuda, a missionary with WBTJ, and board member of both SUJ and the SYK, outlined the current development of the small-group movement. The Bible values the leadership and gifts of lay members of the church. Fukuda believes that mobilizing lay members is urgent for several reasons. In the non-Western context (where Christianity is not an established presence), ministry workers seek for low-budget means of mission. Also, where there is persecution, people often get together in small groups at different places instead of gathering in a church building. The COVID-19 pandemic has driven Christians everywhere into small groups where, by necessity, lay leadership grows stronger.
Fukuda also shared some cases of churches in India and the Philippines where the small-group movement has contributed to church growth. Fukuda listed the four keys to spiritual renewal: lay people, the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and small groups.
Hirotaka Shimada, General Secretary of SUJ, spoke of the authority of the Bible in relation to group discussions of God’s Word. Shimada said that small-group discussion not only allows you to grow in understanding of the Word, but also nurtures appreciation for the authority of the Bible. Sharing in a small-group setting often shows you the gap between what you think and what the Bible says. By choosing to be obedient to the Word, you can impact group members positively in every sphere of life.
Isao Mizuguchi, Chair of SYK’s board and Senior Pastor of Sakuragaoka Christ Church, focused on the merits of Bible study in a small-group setting. In his church, members focus their small-group discussions on three topics: the sermon in the worship service, daily Scripture reading, and a book of the Bible (currently Romans) using a textbook by SYK. In a small-group setting, Mizuguchi has seen his church members come to think on their own, voice their questions, organize their thoughts, and learn from the other group members. When a pastor leads a small-group session, however, the members tend to become listeners, which can hinder their active involvement.
Mizuguchi aspires to see more Bible study groups in churches, workplaces, and schools. He envisions that non-believers joining a small group will be inspired by how believers share their thoughts on Scripture. Mizuguchi expressed his expectations for harvest through small groups.
From Christian Shimbun, November 8, 2020 issue
Translated by Atsuko Tateishi