CORPATH: Small and Big

We live in a fast-paced and sometimes overwhelming world filled with meetings, events, activities and more.  Yet, despite the new technologies that promote social connection, we often feel isolated and disconnected from the people that are most important to us.  I feel it often, and I would bet you do too. 

I believe the importance of fellowship and community cannot be overstated, especially for Christian business leaders striving to integrate their faith into their professional and personal lives. 

When we meet monthly in our forum groups, we encourage each another in our individual pursuits of excellence.  Our forum groups hold a high level of value and significance to each of us.  However, it’s also good to remind ourselves that we are part of a larger network of like-minded individuals who share our values and goals. This dual recognition of our small group and the larger organization is crucial for our continued growth, support, and effectiveness as Christian leaders. 

The Biblical Foundation of Fellowship
The Bible emphasizes the significance of meeting together and encouraging one another.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) states, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

This passage highlights the necessity of regular gatherings for mutual encouragement and accountability.

Similarly, Jesus himself modelled the importance of small group fellowship. He chose twelve disciples to be his close companions, teaching and guiding them intimately. This small group formed the foundation for the early church, demonstrating the power of close-knit, intentional relationships in fostering spiritual growth and mission effectiveness.

The Benefits of Small Group Meetings
1.    Personal Support and Accountability
In a small group setting, we can share our personal struggles and successes more openly. 

James 5:16 (NIV) encourages us to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." This level of transparency and mutual support is often only possible in a smaller, more intimate group. 

2.    Focused Prayer and Intercession
Praying together in a small group allows us to support each other in specific, targeted ways. 

Matthew 18:20 (NIV) promises, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Our prayers become powerful and effective when we join together, seeking God's guidance and intervention in our professional and personal lives.

3.    Deepening Relationships
Meeting regularly helps us build stronger, deeper relationships with our fellow Christian business leaders. 

Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." These close relationships enable us to challenge and inspire each other to pursue excellence in all areas of life. 

Recognizing Our Place in the Larger Body 
While our small group meetings are vital, it is equally important to remember that we are part of a larger organization of like-minded individuals. This broader community provides additional layers of support, resources, and opportunities for collaboration. 

1.    Broader Perspective and Insight
Engaging with the larger organization allows us to gain new insights and perspectives that can enrich our understanding and approach to business and leadership. 

1 Corinthians 12:12-14 (NIV) reminds us, "Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body... Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many."

Each group and individual contributes uniquely to the whole, enhancing our collective wisdom and strength. 

2.    Expanded Network and Resources
Being part of a larger organization opens doors to a wider network of Christian professionals. This network can provide mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and resources that might not be available within our small group.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up... Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." 

3.    Unified Mission and Impact
When we recognize and participate in the larger organization, we contribute to a unified mission that can have a significant impact. Our combined efforts can reach further and achieve more than what we could accomplish individually.

Philippians 1:27 (NIV) encourages us to "stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel."

Encouragement to Continue Meeting and Growing
As we continue to meet monthly, be encouraged by the knowledge that our gatherings are not just routine meetings but divine appointments where God is at work among us. Our commitment to each other and to the larger body is a testament to our faith and our desire to live out our Christian values in every aspect of our lives. 

As Corpath members, we already embrace the importance of our small group meetings, recognizing them as vital opportunities for personal growth, support, and accountability. At the same time, let us celebrate and engage with the larger organization, drawing strength and resources from our broader community of Christian business leaders.  

My Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of gathering together in Your name. We are grateful for the fellowship, support, and encouragement we find in our small group. Help us to continue meeting regularly, spurring one another on toward love and good deeds. Remind us always of our place in the larger body of Christ, and help us to draw strength and inspiration from our broader community. May our efforts in business and life bring glory to Your name and further Your kingdom.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Steve Shrout 
President, Corpath Forums
Email: president@corpath.ca

"Pursuing Excellence in Business, Life and Spirit"

Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone.  Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.

Attached to this is a printable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection.  I encourage you to print it, answer the questions, and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought.  You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and, over time, your binder will become a book representing your Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development, and SPIRITUAL growth.