Can small groups “mix” churches? Should they? Or does it hurt unity, depth, and discipleship?

In this episode of the Crossline Community Podcast, Pastor Jordan Gash tackles a real-world issue every group leader eventually faces: What do I do when someone joins our group… but doesn’t attend our church?

Drawing from Scripture, small group leadership experience, and real tensions Jordan has walked through, this episode explores why this issue exists and how the early church faced similar challenges. Jordan addresses the dilemmas mixed-church groups navigate such as denominational differences, church culture differences, alignment issues, different weekly experiences, awkwardness, shallow connection, and the challenge of depth when group members aren’t embedded in the same church community.

He also highlights the unexpected benefits such as broader reach, the “big-C Church” unity perspective, fresh ideas from different church traditions, and how multiple teaching influences can deepen biblical insight.

Jordan walks through the disadvantages honestly and helps leaders understand when mixed-church dynamics become a barrier to connection and spiritual growth.

He then shares his pastoral answer on whether group leaders should allow mixed-church participation, when it’s wise, when it may be limiting, and how to handle these situations with grace, unity, and clarity. He also speaks directly to small group pastors on how to guide leaders through this without division or legalism.

The episode ends with Jordan’s blessing from Philippians 1:9–11, praying for love, discernment, and depth of insight for every listener.

This episode is helpful for small group leaders, group pastors, anyone navigating community in a multi-church environment, and churches wanting clarity on group alignment.

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