Small-group members need assurance that they are in a place where no harm will be done. Here are some suggestions for creating a non-threatening atmosphere in your small group.

Ban badmouthing. If you have group members who consistently put others down or are routinely negative and judgmental, talk with them privately about the need to build up others in the group. Make sure your own speech and actions build up rather than put down.

Avoid the superstar syndrome. If certain members of the group are always the ones to pray and answer Bible study questions, less outgoing members may be afraid to participate more fully. Ask the extraverts in the group to tone it down a bit so that others can get a word in edgewise. Ask the quiet group members for permission to call on them occasionally to pray, read a passage of Scripture, etc.

Keep your teaching understandable. Avoid obscure theological terms and spiritual jargon. You might sound educated, but others might feel lost. The goal is clear communication, not an ego trip.

Pay compliments. Periodically give group members an opportunity to compliment each other or send notes of encouragement.

Encourage people to spend time together outside the weekly meeting. As relationships deepen, people will feel less threatened about sharing openly.

Pray for unity in your group. It rarely just happens. Christ prayed for unity for his disciples (John 17:11). Let’s follow his example.