The only way to produce godly, loving disciples is through a loving relationship with them. But simply having small groups won't do it. We tend to formalize our relationship networks into clear-cut small groups and that's good. But unless we consciously identify and commit ourselves to a small group within the family, we never get around to genuinely loving and serving. On the other hand, we tend to think something has happened because we've organized it.
Structures can only enable and express love.
We must do the loving. The valid small group bands together for mission, Christ's mission. A note on the four small group components. Worship, fellowship, nurture, and mission as activities are merely means to the end. The end is Christ's mission.