How is a house church different from a traditional church?

House churches focus on personal relationships rather than large church programs. We focus on participation rather than passive attendance, and discipleship rather than mere membership. We don't have buildings with mortgages, large numbers of paid staff, or expensive facilities to maintain. Instead, we invest our resources directly into people and ministry. Everyone participates and uses their gifts rather than watching a few people perform ministry up front.

Are house churches biblical?

Absolutely! The earliest Christians met in homes (Acts 2:46, Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19). House churches reflect the New Testament pattern of intimate fellowship, shared leadership, and a every-member ministry. The building-centred, clergy-focused model came centuries later. We're not creating something new; we're returning to the original design Jesus started.

Is House Church the same as a Christian home group?

Yes and no. They share similarities as both involve Christians gathering in homes to engage with God's word. However, house churches function as complete church communities rather than supplementary groups. Unlike typical home groups that complement Sunday services, house churches incorporate all elements of church life: worship, teaching, communion, fellowship, discipleship, giving and mission—all within an intimate home setting. House churches emphasise active participation from all members rather than passive attendance, creating a family-like faith community where everyone contributes according to their gifts.

Who is in charge at a house church?

Jesus is in charge! While we have trained Shepherds (facilitators) who help guide the Hosue Church, leadership is shared among mature believers. Everyone has something to contribute. We believe in all believers being able to minister (1 Peter 2:9) and that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to every member of the body of Christ.

Who is your covering?

God is our covering. We follow the New Testament pattern where each house church functioned as a complete expression of the church while maintaining relationships with other churches. Our house churches are connected through a network of relationships, mutual accountability, and shared vision, but we don't have a hierarchical structure with a single human authority at the top.

What about if a house church goes rogue and teaches in error?

Our network provides training, mentoring, and accountability to help maintain sound teaching. House church Shepherds meet regularly for encouragement and equipping. If issues arise, we address them through relationship and dialogue based on Scripture. The small, transparent nature of house churches actually makes it harder for false teaching to go unchallenged compared to settings where one person controls all teaching.

How are house churches connected to each other?

House churches in our network are connected through:

• Monthly regional gatherings in Auckland 
• Regular Shepherd huddles for support and accountability, 
• Online forums and resources 
• Leadership training events 
• Shared outreach and mission initiatives 
• Prayer groups and men's ministry 
• Mentoring relationships 

How do I find a house church near me?

Click on the button below and fill out the form, and we'll help you find the nearest house church in your area. If there isn't one nearby, we can help you start one! We'll connect you with a "Shepherd" (house church leader) who will personally welcome you and introduce you to the community.

What happens in a house church gathering?

Our house church gathering typically include:

• Interactive Bible discussion (not just one person teaching) 
• Prayer for one another>, 
• Sharing of needs and resources 
• Communion> 
• Sharing food or drink together 
• Worship through song, prayer, and thanksgiving 
• Exercising spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12-14) 
• Planning for outreach and service) 

Can you be anonymous in a house church?

No, and we see it as a strength, not a weakness! In house churches, everyone has the opportunity to share, serve, and use their gifts. This creates deeper relationships and spiritual growth. However, we're sensitive to newcomers and don't pressure anyone to participate before they're comfortable. We create a safe environment where people can gradually become more involved. .

What about children and youth ministry?

Children and youth are valued members of our house churches! Unlike age-segregated programs in traditional churches, we integrate younger generations into the life of the house church community. Children learn by participating, observing adults, and being discipled in age-appropriate ways. Some activities may be specifically designed for them during part of the house church, but we prioritise intergenerational discipleship. Some of our children develop spiritual gifts earlier than adults and we don't want to hold them back.

Becoming a House Church Leader

Do you get training to be a house church leader? Yes! We provide comprehensive training for those who want to facilitate a house church. Our training includes:

• Biblical foundations for house church 
• Facilitation skills (how to guide without dominating), 
• Conflict resolution 
• Discipleship principles 
• How to foster participation from everyone 
• Practical aspects of hosting 
• Ongoing coaching and support 

Do your house churches have to report back to leadership?

Yes and No. We do encourage regular communication for mutual encouragement and support. House church leaders participate in monthly huddles where they can share successes, challenges, and prayer needs. This creates a natural accountability while respecting the autonomy of each house church. We also encourage our Shepherds to give regular updates after thier weekly house church.

Financial Questions: Where does my giving go?

Unlike traditional churches, we don't put money into buildings or coffee machines. Your generosity directly supports::

• Training and equipping new house church leaders 
• Developing discipleship resources like our "First Things First" course for new believers, 
• Supporting community outreach initiatives 
• Supporting community outreach initiatives 
• Providing for needs within our network 
• Sending workers to unreached communities 
• Supporting mission trips both locally and globally 

Is there a required amount to give?

We trust in God to provideo for all our needs. We don't care how much you give—whether it's $5 or $5,000. What matters most is giving with a cheerful heart (2 Corinthians 9:7). We emphasise generosity as a spiritual practice rather than meeting budget requirements. .

How do I start a house church?

If you're interested in starting a house church, we provide:

1. Initial training and resources
2. Ongoing coaching and support
3. Connection to our wider network
4. Practical tools for facilitating house church
5. Materials for discipleship

Click on the button below and fill out the form, and we'll help you find the nearest house church in your area. If there isn't one nearby, we can help you start one! We'll connect you with a "Shepherd" (house church leader) who will personally welcome you and introduce you to the community.

What if my home is too small?

House churches can meet anywhere—apartments, community rooms, parks (when weather permits), or cafés. The size of your home doesn't limit your ability to participate. Some house churches rotate between different homes or find creative ways to use the space they have.