Viewpoint Church | Following Christ In Community

Point Groups:

Frequently Asked Questions



What is a Point Group?

A Point Group is a community made up of 15-20 people who meet weekly to share, study, and support one another. A Point Group is a community where believers gather together, share in God's word, and open up their lives to each other. Trained leaders lead each group and an average meeting lasts 2 hours including fellowship and Bible study.


When and where do they meet?

Point Groups meet on various nights of the week in homes or other venues throughout Naples. Most evening groups start around 6:30pm or 7:30pm, and are finished by 9:00pm.


How long do they last?

Each Point Group session lasts around 8 to 10 weeks. We have Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions. At the end of each session, you will have the choice of staying in the same group, or trying a new group. Most groups stay together throughout the entire year. Point Groups do not meet from July through mid-August.


What is the required commitment?

Joining a Point Group requires an 8 to 10 week commitment to attend weekly meetings and do the homework ahead of time. Obviously, allowances are made for sickness, vacation, work conflicts, and other special events, but not much more. This commitment is the key to a strong Point Group. You have the first three weeks to attend the group to make sure it's a good fit for you.


What will we study?

Most of the studies are based on the previous weekend's message. These "sermon-based" Point Groups are built on a "Lecture-Lab" model. Imagine the weekend message as a lecture on Christian living, and the Point Group as a lab where you get to roll up your sleeves and discuss how the weekend's message works in real life. Each week, there will be a series of Bible passages and questions on the back of the sermon note sheet to study before the meeting. It will usually take 15 to 20 minutes per week to complete the homework.


What does it cost?

Few things in life are free, and Point Groups are no exception! The cost of Point Groups is the cost of commitment. During the first meeting, each group will complete an agreement together. This simple form helps each group discuss their priorities and commitment. Part of that commitment is the promise to attend each week and to complete the homework as well as to attend the quarterly social. You have the first three weeks to decide if your group is a good fit for you. When you join a Point Group, you are promising to attend and be prepared each week. It is this commitment that makes Point Groups work. We realize it is a big commitment, but it only lasts for 8 to 10 weeks. At the end of each quarter, you have the choice of recommitting for another quarter, or trying a new group.


What about child care?

Point Groups are for adults only. (Exceptions can be made for nursing newborns.) We leave it up to each family to work out their own child care. Sometimes it works best for families to share a sitter or to swap child care with another family whose Point Group meets on a different evening.


How do I choose a Point Group?

When selecting a group, we strongly recommend you choose a group based on its leader and other group members, rather than its location or night of the week. We believe that groups do best when members share a common interest with their leader and other group members. Next to each leader we have included a short bio with their common interests and passions. You may find that is the most effective way to connect with others. If you have any questions (especially if you are new to Viewpoint Church), please don't hesitate to call, and we will gladly assist you. Keep in mind that it might take two or three groups before you find the perfect fit, but don't worry, you'll find it!


How do I sign-up for a Point Group?

As we begin each quarter we will offer sign-up weekends, where you will be able to sign up for groups at the tables in the back of our meeting place. Booklets with information on the Point Groups are available prior to the sign-up weekends or at the welcome table throughout the quarter. During sign-up weekends, several volunteers will be available to assist you in choosing a group and answering any questions you might have. You may also obtain information or pick up an information booklet at the welcome table.


Don't forget! You can call TJ Freeman at any time and he will gladly assist you in finding and signing up for a group, or answer any questions. He can be reached at 239-349-8045 or tj@viewpointchurch.org