Small groups are a fundamentally Christian and Wesleyan tradition. Jesus reminds us that “where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them” (Matthew 18:20). Discipleship is never something we do alone.
What is covenant discipleship?
Covenant discipleship is a contemporary form of small group grounded in Wesleyan teaching. These groups typically include five to seven members who meet for at least one hour each week. Members are bound together by a shared covenant shaped by the General Rule of Discipleship:
To witness to Jesus Christ in the world
and to follow his teachings through
acts of compassion, justice, worship and devotion,
under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How does one start a covenant discipleship group?
Pastors can take the first step by encouraging the formation of covenant discipleship groups within the congregation. Those who feel called to participate should be active in the life of the church and committed to living out the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Rev. Steven Manskar recommends offering informational sessions to introduce the concept and invite participation.
The pastor should help interested individuals connect with one another to begin forming a group. Together, they will determine a consistent meeting time that works for everyone. Early meetings should focus on developing the group’s covenant. Once the covenant is developed and affirmed by all members, the group continues meeting weekly to practice mutual accountability.
What goes into the covenant?
The covenant is a set of promises members make to one another to deepen their relationship with God, grow as disciples, and practice social holiness. These commitments should go beyond routine practices such as attending weekly worship. Instead, they should challenge members to live more fully as followers of Christ in their daily lives.
Each covenant must reflect the General Rule of Discipleship by including acts of devotion, worship, compassion, and justice. These categories reflect the many ways Christians live out the call to love God and neighbor.
- Devotion includes personal practices such as prayer, Scripture reading, meditation or fasting.
- Worship refers to corporate acts of honoring God, including participation in Communion, singing or reciting creeds.
- Compassion includes personal expressions of care, such as visiting the sick, volunteering at a shelter, or giving to those in need.
- Justice involves using one’s voice and resources to advocate for others, especially those who are marginalized.
What purpose do the weekly meetings serve?
Weekly meetings provide a structure for accountability. Members gather to reflect honestly on how they have lived out the covenant since the previous meeting. As seen in many recovery groups, people are more likely to grow and change when they are supported by others. Covenant discipleship applies this same principle to Christian formation.
Meetings typically begin with prayer and a reaffirmation of the covenant. Each member then gives an account of their discipleship, sharing both successes and struggles. Honesty is essential. The group offers encouragement, accountability, and prayer as needed. The meeting concludes just as it began, in prayer. Members rotate leading the meetings.
Where should covenant groups meet?
Groups may meet anywhere that members feel comfortable speaking openly. Churches may provide meeting space, or members may gather in homes.
Public spaces such as coffee shops or restaurants can also work, provided they are quiet and accommodating. When meeting in these establishments, it’s generally good practice to ask the employees if it’s okay and show appreciation by ordering food or drink. Libraries and community centers may also offer reservable meeting rooms.
What are some best practices?
Trust and consistency are the foundation of a healthy covenant group.
Consistency means establishing a regular meeting time and committing to attend faithfully. If a member cannot participate regularly, it may be wise to reconsider their involvement or help them find a group that better fits their schedule. Addressing commitment early helps prevent challenges later.
Trust develops over time. Members may be hesitant to share openly at first, and that is natural. Patience and mutual respect allow trust to grow.
Groups can also strengthen their relationships outside regular meetings. Sharing a meal before gathering, participating in social activities, or attending community events together can deepen connections. These informal interactions help build trust that sustains meaningful accountability.
Here are a few suggested fun activities to help build trust:
- Trivia night: Many restaurants and bars have prescheduled trivia contests every week. These can be great easy and fun team-building opportunities.
- Planned outing: Meeting up together to see a movie, play, concert, etc. can be another fun shared experience.
- Communal cookout or picnic: Everyone loves a potluck. Hosting a shared outdoor event in which whole families are invited can help members get to know each other better and feel closer.
How long does the covenant group continue?
Covenant groups are intended to go on as long as necessary. After about a year, members should evaluate whether the covenant is still meaningful and challenging. Some members may feel called to new leadership roles or other ministries, while others may choose to continue meeting together.
At this point, the group may revise its covenant, welcome new members, or multiply into additional groups.
Conclusion
Covenant discipleship is more than a small-group model. While covenant discipleship requires commitment and vulnerability, its impact can be transformative — not only for individuals, but for the entire congregation. These groups nurture leaders, strengthen relationships and cultivate a community of intentional discipleship.
This content was produced by ResourceUMC on June 10, 2026. Philip J. Brooks is a writer and content developer at United Methodist Communications. Contact him by email.