Fall 2026 Community Groups | Church at the Grove

Community Group Leaders are shepherds—people entrusted with the spiritual lives of others. This document exists to make the standard clear, not to intimidate, but to invite honest self-reflection before you step into leadership.

The qualifications below are drawn from 1 Timothy 3:8–13. If you see an area of genuine struggle, that is not automatically disqualifying—it is an invitation to a conversation. We would rather talk honestly than have you white-knuckle your way through an application.

The qualifications

Eight qualities to reflect on

These describe the kind of life we are asking leaders to model as they care for people.

Worthy of Respect

“Deacons, likewise, should be worthy of respect...” — 1 Timothy 3:8 (CSB)

Your character earns trust before your title does. This is about being the same person in every room—at church, at home, at work, and online. People who know you well should describe you as trustworthy and consistent.

Sincere — Not Double-Tongued

“...not double-tongued...” — 1 Timothy 3:8

What you say publicly matches who you are privately. Integrity of speech is non-negotiable for someone trusted with people’s stories and struggles. A leader who gossips, flatters, or plays both sides will eventually wound the people they are meant to protect.

Free from Controlling Substances

“...not indulging in much wine...” — 1 Timothy 3:8 (CSB)

Leadership requires clarity of mind and freedom of conscience. Leading others requires that nothing outside Christ has control over you.

Regarding alcohol: If drinking to excess is a regular pattern, hold off on leading at this time. A history of struggle is not disqualifying, but a current, unaddressed struggle means the timing is not right.

Regarding marijuana and other substances: If you have used marijuana or other illegal substances in the past 12 months, we ask that you not lead at this time.

Regarding addiction recovery: If you are in active recovery and walking in sustained freedom, we would love to have a conversation. Honest, humble leaders walking toward freedom give others permission to be honest too.

Not Pursuing Dishonest Gain

“...not greedy for money...” — 1 Timothy 3:8 (CSB)

You are not stepping into leadership for status, influence, connection, or personal advantage. Your financial life is honest, and you are not using people or relationships for gain. Community Group leadership is a posture of generosity, not greed.

Holding to Sound Faith with a Clear Conscience

“...holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.” — 1 Timothy 3:9 (CSB)

You are grounded in the core truths of the Christian faith and agree with Church at the Grove’s beliefs. This does not mean perfection; it means honesty, living in the light, and walking with people who can speak into your life.

Tested and Above Reproach

“They must also be tested first; if they prove blameless, then they can serve as deacons.” — 1 Timothy 3:10 (CSB)

Community Group leadership is not a role for brand-new believers or people who just showed up. Your life has been visible long enough to be evaluated. There is a track record—not of perfection, but of faithfulness.

Faithful in Marriage (If Applicable)

“Deacons are to be husbands of one wife...” — 1 Timothy 3:12 (CSB)

If you are married, be fully devoted to your spouse and actively work to strengthen your marriage. If you are single, guard your singleness with intentionality and sexual integrity.

Regarding sexual purity: Scripture teaches that sex is God’s expression of intimacy between a husband and wife within the covenant of marriage.

If you are in a sexual relationship outside of marriage, cohabitating with a romantic partner, or pornography is a current, unaddressed struggle, we ask that you not lead at this time.

The gospel offers full forgiveness and real freedom. Our goal is never shame; it is health. If any of this describes your situation, reach out. We want to help you get to a place of wholeness.

Managing Your Household Well

“...managing their children and their own households competently.” — 1 Timothy 3:12 (CSB)

Your home does not have to be perfect, but it should not be chaos. Be present and engaged with your family. How you lead at home is a preview of how you will lead a group, and a sustainability concern is something we want to address together before you step into leadership.

A word on social media

Your online life matters

Your digital presence is an extension of your leadership. Lead online with grace, honesty, and an awareness that people are watching.

A word on imperfection

Honesty, not perfection

The question is not whether you have ever struggled. It is whether you are walking in integrity, actively pursuing Christ, and surrounded by people who can speak honestly into your life.

Commitment

Before you submit an application

By submitting a Community Group Leader Application, you affirm that:

• You are a Covenant Family Member.
• You have read and understood these qualifications.
• You believe in good conscience that you meet them.
• You are willing to be held accountable to them throughout your time as a leader.
• You understand that Church at the Grove may step you out of leadership if these standards are not upheld.

“For those who have served well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Timothy 3:13 (CSB)