A covenant is an essential part of the process. A group that measures the costs and is committed to each other will accomplish much more than a casual meeting.
At the beginning of the group, I ask each person to commit to the process and sometimes to sign a covenant. They agree in writing to attend all meetings, complete all assignments, and pray for the other group members. This is why we have a covenant:
Take it seriously. This is not a casual gathering. Discipleship needs to be in the same category as work. This year has the potential to change their life and the life of their family forever.
Count the costs. I make sure they know what to expect from the very beginning. I never say it will be easy.
Expectations. These need to be clear, so everyone knows what is required and can hold each other accountable.
Group chemistry. The covenant is here to protect the group. If one person is not upholding their end of the commitment, the whole group suffers. The group is closed once we start.
Group accountability. Sometimes someone will struggle with the material or with a life issue and want to quit. The group will almost always rally around them and encourage them to stick it out. Referring back to their signed covenant will help to motivate them to press on. The covenant keeps a lot of people from giving up.
The launch gathering is the place to cast vision and establish these expectations. It is much more impactful if you explain the value and importance than if you let them read it for themselves.
