Here are some insights from Matt:
- Dudes are like trucks, they go straighter with a heavy load.
- When selecting smallgroup leaders, test their giftedness ruthlessly. If the smallgroups are going to have a good mission focus, you need great leaders.
- Method of assessing smallgroup leaders: have a larger meeting where people break out into small groups during the evening. Watch for the natural leaders in this controlled, fishbowl setting.
- If you want your leaders to really know how to put your missionary goals into practice you need to model it to them. You need to go to parties with them and model conversational evangelism.
- The smallgroups need not be defined by a regular, weekly Bible study, rather they are a group of students who are sharing the rhythms of life together and being committed to mission on campus together.
- Throw great parties. Good food, good beer, thoughtful, kind, interested people.
- Don't assume that students know how to throw a good BBQ, do it for cheap, start a good conversation with a newcomer.
- Devote time in your meetings to talk about the evidences of God's grace, 'celebrating the wins' in everyday opportunities.