Networking or Neighboring?

One is good for groups, while the other is a community killer.

by Rick Howerton

Networking and Neighboring are not the same.

Networking has my agenda in mind.
Neighboring has the agenda of the other person in mind.

Networking is motivated by getting something from someone.
Neighboring has the goal doing something for someone.

Networking stems from selfishness.
Neighboring flows from selflessness.

Networking is a business term.
Neighboring is a Jesus expression.

Someone you network with can become a neighbor and someone who is your neighbor can become part of your network.
The people you are being the church with should always be neighbors.

Small-Group Leader: guard your heart from turning your neighbors into another member of your network. You might get more work out of them, but in the process vast amounts of love, grace, and mercy will escape and you'll be left with a heart occupied by aloneness.

Rick Howerton is the "Small Group-Ologist" at LifeWay Resources. He is the author of Destination Community, and he's got a lifetime of experience with discipleship and small groups.