Life Groups play a very important role at DCC. They are the primary place for pastoral care. Individual groups develop Christian community where Jesus Christ is experienced in his presence and power and where his Spirit ministers through group relationships so that each person is cared for and encouraged to lead a God-pleasing life.


In addition to the primary purpose, stated above, Life Groups are also the chief means by which the following are accomplished:

  • integration of new members
  • accountability and discipleship
  • leadership development
  • gift identification
  • evangelism and outreach
  • service and ministry to felt needs
  • communication
Therefore, we hope that a great majority of DCC members and attenders will be involved in a Life Group. This will require an ever-increasing number of groups, which can be started through the growth and multiplication of existing groups and by identifying new group leaders. Therefore, one of the foundational tasks is to continually identify and nurture the next generation of Life Group leaders. Group leaders are offered new leader training as well as ongoing training and coaching.

Joining a Life Group


To join a Life Group, use our Group Search to find a group that works for you (make sure to filter the Department for “Life Groups”), or contact Pastor Steve for more information and assitance in making connections with an existing group or help in forming a new one.

Essential Elements of Life Groups


DCC LIFE Groups are more than just small group Bible studies. Healthy groups that accomplish the purpose stated above incorporate each of the following elements:
  1. Worship: acknowledging the presence of God in our midst and reflecting on His works on our behalf.

  2. Scriptural Study: Scripture teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains us in righteousness in order to equip us for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

  3. Sharing: truly caring for one another and maintaining accountability through biblical fellowship.

  4. Kingdom-centered Prayer: focusing our attention outside our group/church to join Jesus in His redemptive and re-creative work in this world, as well as praying for the needs of group members. As we do so, we develop a deeper relationship with Christ.

  5. Kingdom-directed Mission: the church is called to share the gospel with a needy world and serve them in tangible ways to express the love of Christ. By jointly seeking to meet this challenge, both the individual and the church will be strengthened.
These elements are important components of any group, although different groups will emphasize them in different ways and in different proportions. Furthermore, not every element needs to happen in every meeting. But over time, each of the elements should be in place. All this is to say that not every group needs to look the same, but every group needs to intentionally cultivate each of the elements to some degree over time.

©  Deer Creek Church 2006