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Tips for Leading Each Session

Be prepared. As the leader, you are expected to facilitate, not teach, this group; however, people will expect you to be better prepared than they are. Set aside some time before each session to prepare.

Preparation Checklist

1. Look through the sessions in advance, so you know what is coming — so the homework doesn’t come as a surprise to you or the group members.
2. Ask people to read or pray. If your group members like to know in advance if they will be reading Scripture or praying aloud, invite them to participate prior to the session.
3. Preview the DVD before the session and note what you want to focus on during each segment. Become familiar with the DVD menu so you don’t have to search for the right segment during the session.
4. Read the Bible passages and consult Bible study materials to prepare discussion comments.
5. Complete all the homework.
6. Pray for the group and each member between meetings.
7. Prepare the space for the meeting, including arranging chairs, decorating (if needed), cueing the videotape, and setting the volume to a comfortable level on the TV.

Equipment Needs for Your Incubator

Here are options for your Incubator group.

Option #1: The minimum equipment requirements:

A DVD player.

A TV with a screen large enough for your incubator group. The size of the group will determine the size of the screen needed. A general rule is two people per one inch of screen size (measured diagonally). Therefore, approximately 12 people can comfortably view a 24-inch screen. With this option, all you need is the correct cabling from the DVD player to the television.

Option #2: Using a video projector with a DVD player or computer with built-in DVD player:

When using a video projector, be sure you have inputs for both computer (or stand-alone DVD player) and video. You can output the audio to separate speakers for larger groups or the built-in speakers of the video projector for smaller groups. If possible, use a projector with 1500 or more lumens.

Connecting a computer or stand-alone DVD player to the video projector:

Computer: For the video signal, you can use a VGA cable from the back of your computer. For audio you will need to investigate what type of connectors come out of the computer. The video projector will normally accept a “female RCA connector” for the audio signal. Be prepared to purchase the correct cables.

DVD player: As with the DVD player to a TV, you will need to have a pair of “RCA” cables to connect audio from the DVD player to the video projector. Video will be one RCA connector.

Create a Great Meeting Space

One of the primary goals of the L3 Leadership Incubator is to create a learning environment, so give careful consideration to where your group will meet. Find an informal environment that allows for uninterrupted discussion and personal sharing. When choosing a site that’s right for the group, keep in mind that you will be meeting for at least four hours.

Make sure you have comfortable chairs and tables. Having coffee or tea available along with some refreshments can help create a welcoming atmosphere.

Set the room to ease conversation. Would a circle of chairs or round table create a more inviting feel? Choose an arrangement you feel would make this study unique and meet the needs of the group.

Some churches set up a multi-media room in their church. The room will include an LCD Projector, a screen on a wall, built-in speakers, dry erase boards for notes, comfortable chairs and tables, a wireless connection, and perhaps a refreshment bar.

Often the best place to meet is in someone’s home rather than in a church. In this environment you can use a TV and DVD player for your media. If you are meeting in someone’s home, take turns bringing refreshments.