Our purpose at First Church is to make disciples in response to the commission of Christ (Matthew 28: 19-20). A central focus of this process is the dynamic of community. This is a part of our "DNA" at First Church, so we provide opportunities to achieve and experience community. Corporate worship is experienced through "big church" and relational community is experienced through "small church", or F.I.R.S.T. Life Groups.
We believe that authentic, life-changing, relationships are indispensable to our spiritual growth here at First Church. Just as relationships were vital to the early church (Acts 2:46; 5:42) they are vital to us now. Our small groups offer an opportunity to become connected with others and experience authentic community. The F.I.R.S.T. acrostic describes the relational process of our groups.
F = Fellowship - the opportunity to be together and enjoy sharing socially
I = Into the Word/Insights into Christ. - the opportunity to interject the ageless truth of God's Word into our relational community
R = Reaching Out - the opportunity to enable our relationships to impact those outside our group
S = Sharing Life - the opportunity to "do life together", sharing our stories and supporting/encouraging one another
T = Touching God - the opportunity to join hearts in prayer, taking our concerns to a loving God who hears and answers our requests
Relationships are a priority at First Church. We believe the best way to grow as a believer in Christ is through relationships. The most effective way to live a healthy life is through healthy relationships. Healing from the wounds of life comes through healing relationships. As a result, we have committed to developing small groups in Russellville and throughout the River Valley. Group life is at the heart of First Church! Our vision is to see every member, attendee, and others in the River Valley area actively engaged in small group life at First Church. Change is something that God intends for us to experience together, and though relationships can often be messy, we believe that real growth happens through small groups.
We hope you will consider becoming part of a F.I.R.S.T. Life Group. If you are interested in participating in a small group, please email our Equipping Pastor at
randy@firstfreewill.org.