BG2G Home Groups
BG2G Home Groups are the local chapters of the BG2G Association — the place where 12-Step Program culture and Absolute Truth combine to resurrect the Acts Church Paradigm in communities across America. We believe there has never been a more urgent need for the continuous, effective, and permanent unity of Christian brothers and sisters. Believers must work together — and hang together — or we risk falling away in compromise or becoming too weak to stand firm in our faith.
Our "Big Book" is the Christian Bible. Every Home Group meeting is designed to provide a non-confrontational space where members can explore Scripture freely, express personal thoughts and experiences, and grow together in spiritual maturity. We believe that the collective power and wisdom of honest community conversation can take every participant to deeper insight — of self, of others, of life, and of God.
BG2G Home Groups are governed by the 12 Traditions and united around one common purpose: to practice the 8-Steps of BG2G. Membership is open to all who desire to grow in the knowledge of God and Bring Glory to Him. It shall never depend on money or conformity. Any two or three people gathered in pursuit of these goals may call themselves a BG2G Group.
Our "Big Book" is the Christian Bible. Every Home Group meeting is designed to provide a non-confrontational space where members can explore Scripture freely, express personal thoughts and experiences, and grow together in spiritual maturity. We believe that the collective power and wisdom of honest community conversation can take every participant to deeper insight — of self, of others, of life, and of God.
BG2G Home Groups are governed by the 12 Traditions and united around one common purpose: to practice the 8-Steps of BG2G. Membership is open to all who desire to grow in the knowledge of God and Bring Glory to Him. It shall never depend on money or conformity. Any two or three people gathered in pursuit of these goals may call themselves a BG2G Group.
"When the only hierarchy is the Bible and the freedom to speak our personal experiential truth…
Denominational walls don’t exist!
And where everyone is personally responsible for their own beliefs…
Doctrinal Controversies don’t divide!"
Denominational walls don’t exist!
And where everyone is personally responsible for their own beliefs…
Doctrinal Controversies don’t divide!"
The 8-Steps of BG2G
1. Admit powerlessness over sin, and recognize that we have a recurring need to be rescued from the harms caused by sin.
2. Believe that God is real and that God sent Jesus to restore us to sanity, stability, strength, power, peace, joy, health and charity.
3. Make a decision to turn our will and our life over to God, as we understand Him, inviting Jesus to become our Personal Lord and Savior.
4. Conduct a searching and fearless moral inventory of biblical teachings regarding: repentance from dead works, faith towards God, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead and eternal judgement. (Heb. 6:1-2)
5. Grow in personal integrity: Admitting to God, ourselves, and others the exact nature of our motivation behind our thoughts, actions and speech.
6. Commit yourself to sanctification: Become entirely ready to have God remove all defects of character and humbly ask God to remove shortcomings.
7. Seek fellowship with God through worship, meditation, fasting and prayer to improve our conscious contact with Him, praying only for knowledge of His will and the power to carry it out.
8. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we share our experience strength and hope with others, and practice these principles in all our affairs.
2. Believe that God is real and that God sent Jesus to restore us to sanity, stability, strength, power, peace, joy, health and charity.
3. Make a decision to turn our will and our life over to God, as we understand Him, inviting Jesus to become our Personal Lord and Savior.
4. Conduct a searching and fearless moral inventory of biblical teachings regarding: repentance from dead works, faith towards God, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead and eternal judgement. (Heb. 6:1-2)
5. Grow in personal integrity: Admitting to God, ourselves, and others the exact nature of our motivation behind our thoughts, actions and speech.
6. Commit yourself to sanctification: Become entirely ready to have God remove all defects of character and humbly ask God to remove shortcomings.
7. Seek fellowship with God through worship, meditation, fasting and prayer to improve our conscious contact with Him, praying only for knowledge of His will and the power to carry it out.
8. Having had a spiritual awakening as a result of these steps, we share our experience strength and hope with others, and practice these principles in all our affairs.
The 12-Traditions that Govern BG2G Home Groups
The “long form” of AA Traditions as first published in 1946 have been reworded in such a way as to apply specifically to BG2G Home Group Governance.
1. Each member of BG2G is but a small part of a great whole. BG2G groups must live or most believers will fall away when persecution comes our way. Hence our common welfare comes first. But individual welfare follows close afterward.
2. For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority--a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
3. Our membership ought to include all who seek to grow in the knowledge of God and Bring Glory to God. Hence we may refuse none who have such desires. BG2G membership should never depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three people gathered together in pursuit of these two goals may call themselves a BG2G Group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation.
4. With respect to its own affairs, each BG2G group should be responsible to no other authority than its own conscience. But when its plans concern the welfare of neighboring groups also, those groups ought to be consulted. No group, committee, or individual should ever take any action that might greatly affect BG2G as a whole without conferring with delegates of the greater whole. On such issues our common welfare is paramount.
5. Each BG2G group ought to be a spiritual entity having but one primary purpose —that of practicing the “8-Steps of BG2G”.
6. Problems of money, property, and authority may easily divert us from our primary spiritual aim. We think, therefore, that any considerable property of genuine use to the BG2G fellowship should be separately incorporated and managed, thus dividing the material from the spiritual. A BG2G group, as such, should never go into business. Secondary aids to Members, such as clubs or hospitals which require much property or administration, ought to be incorporated and so set apart that, if necessary, they can be freely discarded by the groups. Hence such facilities ought not to use the BG2G name. Their management should be the sole responsibility of those people who financially support them. For clubs, Member managers are usually preferred. But hospitals, as well as other places of recuperation, ought to be well outside BG2G--and medically supervised. While a BG2G group may cooperate with anyone, such cooperation ought never go so far as affiliation or endorsement, actual or implied. A BG2G group can bind itself to no one.
7. The BG2G group themselves ought to be fully supported by the voluntary contributions of their own members. We think that each group should soon achieve this ideal; that any public solicitation of funds using the name of BG2G is highly dangerous, whether by groups, clubs, hospitals, or other outside agencies; that acceptance of large gifts from any source, or of contributions carrying any obligation whatever, is unwise. Then too, we view with much concern those BG2G treasuries which continue, beyond prudent reserves, to accumulate funds for no stated BG2G purpose. Experience has often warned us that nothing can so surely destroy our spiritual heritage as futile disputes over property, money, and authority.
8. BG2G should remain forever non-professional. We define professionalism as the occupation of providing services regulated by governmental authorities and/or licensure for fees or hire. But we may employ fellow members where they are going to perform a service for which we might otherwise have to engage non-members. Such services may be well recompensed. But our usual BG2G “Home Group” service work is never to be paid for.
9. Each BG2G groups needs the least possible organization. Rotating leadership is the best. The small group may elect its Secretary, the large group its Rotating Committee, and the groups of a large Metropolitan area their Central or Intergroup Committee, which often employs a full-time Secretary. All such representatives are to be guided in the spirit of service, for true leaders in BG2G are but trusted and experienced servants of the whole. They derive no real authority from their titles; they do not govern. Universal respect is the key to their usefulness.
10. No BG2G group or member should ever, in such a way as to implicate BG2G, express any opinion on outside controversial issues – particularly those of politics, reform, or sectarian religion. BG2G groups opposes no one and can express no view whatsoever. Concerning matters of controversy, every member is autonomous and assumes full responsibility for their own understanding, behavior and speech at all times.
11. Our relations with the general public should be characterized by personal anonymity. We think members ought to avoid sensational advertising. Our names and pictures as BG2G members ought not be broadcast, filmed, or publicly printed. Our public relations should be guided by the principle of attraction rather than promotion. There is never need to praise ourselves. We feel it better to let our friends recommend us.
12. And finally, we of BG2G believe that the principle of Anonymity has an immense spiritual significance. It reminds us that we are to place principles before personalities; that we are actually to practice a genuine humility. This to the end that our great blessings may never spoil us; that we shall forever live in thankful contemplation of God who presides over us all.
2. For our group purpose there is but one ultimate authority--a loving God as He may express Himself in our group conscience. Our leaders are but trusted servants; they do not govern.
3. Our membership ought to include all who seek to grow in the knowledge of God and Bring Glory to God. Hence we may refuse none who have such desires. BG2G membership should never depend upon money or conformity. Any two or three people gathered together in pursuit of these two goals may call themselves a BG2G Group, provided that, as a group, they have no other affiliation.
4. With respect to its own affairs, each BG2G group should be responsible to no other authority than its own conscience. But when its plans concern the welfare of neighboring groups also, those groups ought to be consulted. No group, committee, or individual should ever take any action that might greatly affect BG2G as a whole without conferring with delegates of the greater whole. On such issues our common welfare is paramount.
5. Each BG2G group ought to be a spiritual entity having but one primary purpose —that of practicing the “8-Steps of BG2G”.
6. Problems of money, property, and authority may easily divert us from our primary spiritual aim. We think, therefore, that any considerable property of genuine use to the BG2G fellowship should be separately incorporated and managed, thus dividing the material from the spiritual. A BG2G group, as such, should never go into business. Secondary aids to Members, such as clubs or hospitals which require much property or administration, ought to be incorporated and so set apart that, if necessary, they can be freely discarded by the groups. Hence such facilities ought not to use the BG2G name. Their management should be the sole responsibility of those people who financially support them. For clubs, Member managers are usually preferred. But hospitals, as well as other places of recuperation, ought to be well outside BG2G--and medically supervised. While a BG2G group may cooperate with anyone, such cooperation ought never go so far as affiliation or endorsement, actual or implied. A BG2G group can bind itself to no one.
7. The BG2G group themselves ought to be fully supported by the voluntary contributions of their own members. We think that each group should soon achieve this ideal; that any public solicitation of funds using the name of BG2G is highly dangerous, whether by groups, clubs, hospitals, or other outside agencies; that acceptance of large gifts from any source, or of contributions carrying any obligation whatever, is unwise. Then too, we view with much concern those BG2G treasuries which continue, beyond prudent reserves, to accumulate funds for no stated BG2G purpose. Experience has often warned us that nothing can so surely destroy our spiritual heritage as futile disputes over property, money, and authority.
8. BG2G should remain forever non-professional. We define professionalism as the occupation of providing services regulated by governmental authorities and/or licensure for fees or hire. But we may employ fellow members where they are going to perform a service for which we might otherwise have to engage non-members. Such services may be well recompensed. But our usual BG2G “Home Group” service work is never to be paid for.
9. Each BG2G groups needs the least possible organization. Rotating leadership is the best. The small group may elect its Secretary, the large group its Rotating Committee, and the groups of a large Metropolitan area their Central or Intergroup Committee, which often employs a full-time Secretary. All such representatives are to be guided in the spirit of service, for true leaders in BG2G are but trusted and experienced servants of the whole. They derive no real authority from their titles; they do not govern. Universal respect is the key to their usefulness.
10. No BG2G group or member should ever, in such a way as to implicate BG2G, express any opinion on outside controversial issues – particularly those of politics, reform, or sectarian religion. BG2G groups opposes no one and can express no view whatsoever. Concerning matters of controversy, every member is autonomous and assumes full responsibility for their own understanding, behavior and speech at all times.
11. Our relations with the general public should be characterized by personal anonymity. We think members ought to avoid sensational advertising. Our names and pictures as BG2G members ought not be broadcast, filmed, or publicly printed. Our public relations should be guided by the principle of attraction rather than promotion. There is never need to praise ourselves. We feel it better to let our friends recommend us.
12. And finally, we of BG2G believe that the principle of Anonymity has an immense spiritual significance. It reminds us that we are to place principles before personalities; that we are actually to practice a genuine humility. This to the end that our great blessings may never spoil us; that we shall forever live in thankful contemplation of God who presides over us all.
Meeting Formats
Big Book Discussion Meetings
In this open-Bible discussion format, a passage of Scripture is read in context and then opened to the floor for free expression of thoughts and reflections. Passages are selected by the meeting chairperson, and topics are led by group conscience — there is no set schedule to follow. There is no cross-talk or debating. Every participant is given 3 to 7 minutes to speak uninterrupted, with respect shown for the size of the group. The goal is simple: let the Word speak, and let the people respond honestly.
In this open-Bible discussion format, a passage of Scripture is read in context and then opened to the floor for free expression of thoughts and reflections. Passages are selected by the meeting chairperson, and topics are led by group conscience — there is no set schedule to follow. There is no cross-talk or debating. Every participant is given 3 to 7 minutes to speak uninterrupted, with respect shown for the size of the group. The goal is simple: let the Word speak, and let the people respond honestly.
Foundation Study Meetings
These meetings are devoted to deep, extensive study of the six foundational doctrines of the Christian faith as outlined in Hebrews 6:1–2: (1) Repentance from Dead Works, (2) Faith Toward God, (3) Baptisms — Water, Holy Spirit, and Fire, (4) Laying on of Hands, (5) Resurrection of the Dead, and (6) Eternal Judgment. The chairperson for this meeting is skilled in biblical exegesis and is tasked with gathering relevant Scripture, presenting it to the group, sharing personal understanding, and leaving time for open comment. As with all BG2G meetings, there is no cross-talk or debating, and each participant is given 3 to 7 minutes to speak without interruption.
These meetings are devoted to deep, extensive study of the six foundational doctrines of the Christian faith as outlined in Hebrews 6:1–2: (1) Repentance from Dead Works, (2) Faith Toward God, (3) Baptisms — Water, Holy Spirit, and Fire, (4) Laying on of Hands, (5) Resurrection of the Dead, and (6) Eternal Judgment. The chairperson for this meeting is skilled in biblical exegesis and is tasked with gathering relevant Scripture, presenting it to the group, sharing personal understanding, and leaving time for open comment. As with all BG2G meetings, there is no cross-talk or debating, and each participant is given 3 to 7 minutes to speak without interruption.
Speaker Meetings
Speaker Meetings elevate the power of personal testimony. A recognized servant of the Lord Jesus is invited to share their experience, strength, and hope — addressing three essential questions: What sins did they personally struggle with? How have they witnessed Jesus and the Word of God bring salvation and transformation to their life? And what are they doing today to Bring Glory to God? After the speaker shares, remaining time is opened for public response. Participants are given 2 to 5 minutes to respond uninterrupted. There is no cross-talk or debating.
Speaker Meetings elevate the power of personal testimony. A recognized servant of the Lord Jesus is invited to share their experience, strength, and hope — addressing three essential questions: What sins did they personally struggle with? How have they witnessed Jesus and the Word of God bring salvation and transformation to their life? And what are they doing today to Bring Glory to God? After the speaker shares, remaining time is opened for public response. Participants are given 2 to 5 minutes to respond uninterrupted. There is no cross-talk or debating.
Devotional Meetings
Devotional Meetings are centered on intimacy with God and the practice of spiritual disciplines — fasting, prayer, meditation, and worship. These gatherings prioritize corporate fellowship, ministry, and active participation over structured teaching. Meeting format may vary and is always governed by group conscience, allowing the Holy Spirit the freedom to move as He will among those gathered.
Devotional Meetings are centered on intimacy with God and the practice of spiritual disciplines — fasting, prayer, meditation, and worship. These gatherings prioritize corporate fellowship, ministry, and active participation over structured teaching. Meeting format may vary and is always governed by group conscience, allowing the Holy Spirit the freedom to move as He will among those gathered.