Although their may be danger as you mentioned, small groups, if functioned correctly, greatly benefit the believer in the group and ultimately the church. Small groups help new people to get assimulated into the church, and it gives an outlet for those who are eager to grow spiritually. I think community is missing in the church today, and it is a vehicle to help community.

Now, a church does not want a particular small group to become so ingrown that it separates itself from the community of the church. I have not been a part of a small group where bad theology can be expressed without correction. I have heard some bad theology opined by a person in a small group, but 2-3 others will jump in to say that is not our church position nor what the Bible teaches. Imo, it is better for a peson to feel free to ask or comment without being fearful of chastisement.

Whether it is small groups or other ways, the church should be actively involved in discipleship. No one outgrows the need of discipleship, and expressing that discipleship is not one of person's gifts should not give one an opt out of partipating in discipling relationships.

John Chaney

"having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith . . ." Colossians 2:7