Rob and Linda had been leading their Bible study group for a few months now. While the group had been growing in their faith together, the married couple felt like there was still a lack of understanding between members. They knew that the group needed to learn more about each on a deeper level in order to grow together more effectively. That's when Rob remembered the Christian DISC®.
At their next Bible study, Rob and Linda introduced the Christian DISC® to the group. They explained that the assessment would help them understand each other's personality types and how they could learn about each other more effectively. They asked each member to take the assessment and come back to the next meeting with their results. At the next meeting, the group discussed their results. It was fascinating to see how each member had a unique personality type, and how that affected their communication style and approach to problem-solving. They discovered that Rob was a Compliant personality type, while Linda was an Influencing personality type. Two other members were Steady personality types, while the last member was a Dominant personality type. The group also gleaned much from the spiritual insights from the Christian DISC®. They discussed which biblical figures correlated to each personality type and how their strengths and weaknesses intersected with their spiritual growth.
As a result, the group began to encourage each other to serve in the larger congregation according to their strengths. As the weeks went on, the group grew closer together. They were able to work together more effectively because they understood each other's styles, strengths, and growth areas. They also used the Christian DISC® model to resolve conflicts in a respectful and effective way. Rob and Linda were thrilled to see how much the Christian DISC® model had helped their small group grow together spiritually. By understanding each other's personality types and working together according to their strengths, they were able to focus on their shared goal of growing in their faith and serving others.
Small groups are essential to the life of the church, as they provide a sense of community and a place for members to grow in their faith. As a church leader, one way to enhance the effectiveness of small groups is by using the Christian DISC®. This model helps individuals understand their God-given personality traits and how they can use them to serve others and further the Kingdom of God. Here are some ways small groups can use the Christian DISC® model at an upcoming meeting:
1. Take the Assessment Together
The first step is for each member of the small group to take the Christian DISC® assessment. This can be done individually or together as a group. The assessment will provide each member with their unique personality type based on the four types: Dominant, Influencing, Steady, and Compliant.
2. Discuss the Results
Once everyone has taken the assessment, the group can discuss their results. This is an opportunity to learn about each other's personality traits and how they may impact the group dynamic. For example, a member with a Dominant personality type may be more comfortable with assertiveness and taking charge, while a member with a Steady personality type may value harmony and stability in the group. Encourage each member of the group to talk candidly about their strengths, but also their weaknesses (or areas where they want to grow). Discuss the scriptures and biblical figures given for each type and consider planning future Bible studies on those passages.
3. Encourage Each Other to Serve
The Christian DISC® model emphasizes that each individual has unique strengths that can be used to serve others. After discussing each other's results , encourage each member to serve in the church according to their strengths. For example, a member with a Steady personality type may be well-suited for congregational care, providing emotional support and encouragement to other members of the church. A member with a Dominant personality type may be well-suited for leading some type of ministry in the church that needs direction.
4. Resolve Conflicts
Conflicts can arise in any group setting, including small groups. The Christian DISC® model can be used to understand each member's communication and communication styles, which can help the group work through conflicts in a respectful and effective way. For example, a member with an Influencing personality type may approach conflict resolution with a more diplomatic and persuasive approach, while a member with a Compliant personality type may approach conflict resolution with a more detail-oriented and analytical approach.
The Christian DISC® model can be a valuable tool for small groups to use in Bible study. By taking the assessment, discussing the results, encouraging each other to serve in the wider church, and using the model to resolve conflicts, small groups can create a more effective and cohesive group that is focused on growing in their faith and serving others.
