Magnet Groups

ABOUT THE Magnet groups

Most men completely by-pass church, in fact the UK has seen a massive decline of 49% since 1980 in male attendance, aged 20-29. Out of the 26 million men in the UK only 0.9% attend church regularly. Sometimes we make the mistake of thinking that when the “wheels come off” in a man’s life they look to the church. A small minority might, but for most, their perception of what/who Jesus is and stands for will be quite the opposite of what they feel they need in a crisis.

Men today still look for robust and strong environments to forge friendships. They may not express it like this but men really do desire authentic relationships. Men want a “band of brothers” that they can stand shoulder to shoulder with. Often, we go to the pub, golf course, the match, or the clubhouse. But being blunt about it, many men don’t expect to find a band of brothers in a church, so they just don’t look there! The question is, what are we doing at Oasis to put hairs back on the chest of the Gospel? We’re suggesting that at Oasis we create small Magnet groups, comprising approximately of two to three men, which will meet together weekly, fortnightly or monthly for:

 

  • Accountability
  • Encouragement
  • Challenge
  • Mutual support
  • Prayer
  • Having Fun!

Why is this so Important?

I think that as we enter into what many think are unprecedented times of upheaval, it is even more important for us guys to be securely placed in a group of approx. three other mature Christian men so we can support each other, practically, emotionally, spiritually, and also be accountable to each other for our walk with the Lord. Also, don’t forget to have some fun thrown in! This is entirely a biblical concept and even the Lord was in such a group with three of His closest apostles. One of the most effective strategies of the enemy is to isolate individuals and to make them think that their problems are unique and unresolvable. Magnet groups are designed to empower men to support and also to receive support from a chosen number of other men. These groups should be small in size, anywhere between three to five; and importantly comprised of men who feel comfortable and at ease with each other. Mutual trust and complete confidentiality must form the basis of the groups.

Magnet groups do not replace any existing groups within Oasis, but compliment them. Magnet groups are all about bringing release into our lives. As we support other men in our small groups and are supported in return, we will let the love of God the Father into our lives that will bring the release we need to be the men that God intended for us to be. Once this happens we will automatically be walking in God’s favour and His purposes for our lives.

God never designed us to walk alone; and even Jesus had an inner core of close friends: Peter, James and John, with whom he was able to draw into key moments of his life, such as the transfiguration and the struggle at the Garden of Gethsemane.

 

How do I join a Magnet group?

The ‘membership’ of each group will be left entirely down to personal choice. The suggestion is that each man prays about who he should approach to team up with. Without being too spiritual about it, often the best selection can be based on who we get on with well and / or who has something in common with us, such as a demanding job, having young children or being single.

If you would like to talk about this more or would like some help to identify who you could join a group with please speak with the Office at admin@oasischurch.org.uk