Kevin Watson distinguishes three types of classes: Affinity Groups,
Information-driven groups, Transformation-driven groups. We discussed the
strengths and weaknesses of each at our last CEF meeting. We did note however,
that some groups could contain elements of each. We even discussed that some
things can be both a strength and limitation. For example, while vulnerability
great, it also opens the door to damaging gossip. See if you would add anything
to our list:
Affinity Groups
Ø Strengths
o Building relationships
o Invitational or entry point
o Can build trust
o Usually only a short time commitment
Ø Limitations
o Only surface level engagement
o Often appear to be a closed group
o Often discontinuity within the group participants
Informational-driven
Groups
Ø Strengths
o Structure
o Control
o Easier to communicate specifics about the group
o Scheduled
o Learn foundational theological language and tools
o Long-standing
o Build a level of trust and comfort (some community)
Ø Limitations
o Can be closed off
o Not always aiming for life application
o Doesn’t not always become challenging enough
o Often personality driven
o Often lecture oriented
o Focus is often on the intellectual
Transformational-driven
Groups
Ø Strengths
o Focus on Transformation
o This focus can spread to other groups
o Facilitates an encounter with Christ
o Fosters deeper trust, intimacy, and community
o Ability to foster vulnerability
Ø Limitations
o Requires trained, skilled teachers
o Takes a while to develop depth
o Could foster Gossip
Do you see some other strengths or limitations we did not mention?
