25 Fun & Easy Games for Church Small Groups

Games are fun. That’s a simple truth. But in a faith-based setting, fun can also have a profound purpose. A simple activity can be the bridge that connects a new member to the group, or the shared laugh that opens someone’s heart to a spiritual truth. When chosen with intention, games become more than just an icebreaker; they become an act of hospitality and a tool for discipleship. This article will show you how to transform playtime into growth time. We’ll provide you with a fantastic list of games for church small groups and, more importantly, show you how to connect them to biblical themes, turning every activity into an opportunity for connection, learning, and spiritual encouragement.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Games with a Goal

  : Don't just pick a random game. Be intentional and select an activity that helps you accomplish something specific, whether it's making new members feel welcome, building team unity, or making scripture memorization fun.

• Pick for Your People

  : A game's success depends on how well it fits your group. Pay attention to their personality, age, and size, and always be ready to modify an activity so that every single person can comfortably participate.

• Turn Fun into Formation

  : A game is the perfect setup for a deeper conversation. Use the experience as a natural bridge to your lesson by asking a few follow-up questions that connect the activity to a spiritual truth or a memory verse.

Why Should Your Small Group Play Games?

When you gather your small group, the goal is usually pretty clear: to grow in faith and community. You want to dig into the Word, pray for one another, and build relationships that are supportive and real. So, where do games fit into that picture? It might feel a little counterintuitive to pull out a game when there are serious spiritual matters to discuss, but play is one of the most powerful tools you have for building a strong, connected group.

Think of it this way: games are the ultimate barrier-breakers. They create a low-pressure environment where people can relax, laugh, and show a different side of their personality. In the early stages of a group, simple get-to-know-you games can help members move from being strangers to feeling truly known. This shared experience of fun builds a foundation of trust that makes deeper, more vulnerable conversations possible later on.

Laughter and shared memories are the glue that holds a group together. When you laugh together over a silly answer or work as a team to solve a puzzle, you’re creating positive experiences that strengthen your bonds. These moments of joy make your group a place people genuinely want to be, which in turn enhances engagement during Bible study and prayer. It reminds us that fellowship isn’t just about serious study; it’s also about celebrating the gift of community God has given us.

Best of all, games can be a direct path to spiritual growth. They aren’t just filler time; they can be intentionally chosen to reinforce a lesson or a biblical truth. A well-designed game can turn scripture memorization from a chore into a friendly competition, helping God's Word stick in a fun and lasting way. By incorporating play, you create a dynamic environment where every member can participate, connect, and grow in their faith together.

Choose the Right Type of Game

Not all games serve the same purpose. Think of them as different tools in your small group leader toolkit. The right game can turn an awkward silence into a room full of laughter or transform a simple get-together into a moment of genuine spiritual connection. Before you pick an activity, it helps to know what you want to accomplish. Are you welcoming new members, building team unity, or looking for a creative way to dive into scripture? Understanding the different types of games helps you be intentional with your group time. Let’s look at three main categories that can help your group connect with each other and with God.

Icebreaker Games

Icebreakers are all about creating a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. They are perfect for the first few meetings of a new group or anytime a new person joins. The goal is simple: help people move from being strangers to feeling known and seen. These games are typically light, fun, and focus on sharing personal tidbits, like favorite foods or funny childhood memories. By lowering the stakes for participation, you make it easier for everyone, especially introverts, to open up. Good small group icebreakers build the foundation of trust needed for deeper conversations later on.

Team-Building Activities

Once your group members know each other’s names, team-building activities can help them learn to work together. These games move beyond simple introductions and encourage collaboration, listening, and creative problem-solving. An activity like “Pass the Story,” where each person adds one sentence to a collaborative tale, fosters both creativity and teamwork. The best part is that many of these activities are incredibly simple and require zero preparation, making them perfect for busy leaders. These no-prep games are great for building unity and a sense of shared purpose within your group.

Faith-Based Discussion Games

This is where fun meets spiritual formation. Faith-based games are designed to do more than just entertain; they are a springboard for meaningful conversation about God, scripture, and Christian living. These activities can teach important lessons about leadership, resolving conflict biblically, and what it means to follow Jesus. Instead of just asking a discussion question, a game can create a shared experience that leads to deeper insights. Games like RHEMAin are built specifically for this, turning scripture memorization into an engaging activity that strengthens both faith and fellowship.

Pick the Perfect Game for Your Group

The secret to a great game night isn't just the game itself—it's finding the right game for the people in the room. A game that falls flat with one group might be an absolute hit with another. Taking a few moments to think intentionally about who you're serving will make all the difference, turning a potentially awkward activity into a highlight that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. When you pick a game that resonates, you’re telling your group, "I see you, and I chose this just for you." It’s a simple act of hospitality that sets the stage for genuine connection.

Choosing the perfect game means looking at your group from a few different angles. How many people are you expecting, and what's the general age range? What's the group's overall personality—are they loud and competitive, or more quiet and reflective? Finally, how can you adapt an activity to make sure every single person feels included and comfortable? Thinking through these questions will help you select an activity that doesn't just pass the time but actively builds the kind of fellowship and connection you’re hoping to create. It’s less about finding a one-size-fits-all game and more about tailoring the experience to your unique community. This thoughtful approach is what separates a good game night from a great one.

Consider Your Group's Size and Age

The logistics of a game can change dramatically with the number of people playing. An activity that works beautifully with six people might become chaotic with twenty. Likewise, a game that requires a lot of movement might not be the best fit for a large group in a small living room. Before you choose, get a general headcount.

Age is another key factor. While many games are great for mixed-company groups, an activity designed for a youth group might not land as well with a group of seniors, and vice versa. The goal is to choose something that everyone can genuinely enjoy without feeling silly or left out. Having a few different icebreaker games in your back pocket for various group sizes and ages is always a smart move.

Match the Game to Your Group's Personality

Every small group has its own unique vibe. Is your group full of energetic extroverts who love a little friendly competition? Or is it a more reserved, thoughtful bunch that prefers meaningful conversation? Paying attention to these dynamics is crucial. A fast-paced, high-energy game could overwhelm a quieter group, while a slow, reflective activity might bore a more boisterous one.

You know your people best. If your group loves to laugh, pick something silly. If they are creative, choose a game that allows them to show that off. The best games don't force people into a box; they give them a fun way to express who they already are. When you make the game more captivating by aligning it with your group's natural tendencies, you set everyone up for a great time.

Adapt Games for Everyone

Inclusivity is key to building a strong community. When choosing a game, think about every person in your group and consider if any modifications are needed. Can the game be played while sitting for those with mobility challenges? Is it simple enough for a brand-new member to jump right in without feeling lost? This is especially important for new groups, where it’s helpful to use get-to-know-you games to help people feel known.

Don't be afraid to change the rules. The point of the game isn't to follow the instructions perfectly; it's to connect with each other. You can simplify scoring, change the physical requirements, or extend the time for more personal activities. The goal is to create a welcoming space where everyone can participate and feel valued.

25 Fun Games for Your Church Small Group

Finding the right game can completely transform your small group’s dynamic, turning a quiet room into a space buzzing with laughter and connection. The key is to have a variety of options ready to go, whether you need a quick warm-up or a more involved activity. Think of this list as your go-to resource for any situation. We’ve broken down 25 ideas into four categories based on time and energy level, so you can easily find the perfect fit for your group’s needs at your next meeting. From simple conversation starters to games that get everyone on their feet, there’s something here for every group.

Quick Icebreakers (5-10 Minutes)

When you’re short on time or have new members, a quick icebreaker is the perfect way to get everyone talking. The goal isn’t deep, personal revelation; it’s simply to create a relaxed atmosphere where people feel comfortable sharing. Simple icebreaker questions are a great start, but you can also try one of these no-prep games:

• Two Truths and a Lie:

  Each person shares three "facts" about themselves—two true, one false. The group then guesses which one is the lie.

• Desert Island:

  Ask everyone, "If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you bring and why?

• High, Low, Buffalo:

  Each person shares a high point, a low point, and a random "buffalo" fact from their week.

Interactive Team Games (15-20 Minutes)

Ready to move beyond simple questions? Interactive games encourage collaboration and often lead to some hilarious moments. These activities are great for helping an established group connect on a deeper level or for breaking up a long study session with some shared fun. They require a bit more participation but are fantastic for building a sense of teamwork and community.

• Human Knot:

  Have everyone stand in a circle, reach across to grab the hands of two different people, and then work together to untangle the "knot" without letting go.

• Pass the Story:

  Start a story with one sentence (e.g., "The purple elephant packed his suitcase..."). Each person in the circle adds one sentence to continue the narrative. This collaborative game always ends in a surprising and funny place.

Scripture-Based Activities

As a faith-based group, incorporating scripture into your games is a powerful way to make learning and memorization fun. These activities help bring the Bible to life and connect your fellowship time directly to your spiritual growth. You can turn almost any classic game into a faith-filled one with a little creativity.

• Bible Charades or Pictionary:

  Write down people, places, stories, or concepts from the Bible on slips of paper and have members act them out or draw them.

• Verse Scramble:

  Write a memory verse on a notecard, cut it into individual words, and have teams race to put it back in the correct order.

• For a ready-to-play option,

  our game RHEMAin

  was designed specifically to make scripture memorization an engaging and competitive experience for groups.

Movement and Energy Games

If you notice energy levels dipping, a game that gets people moving is the perfect solution. These activities are great for shaking things up, especially for groups that meet in the evening or have been sitting for a while. Adding a bit of physical activity can re-engage everyone and create a fun, lighthearted atmosphere that breaks down barriers.

• Wink Murder:

  One person is secretly the "murderer" and "kills" others by winking at them. Another person is the "detective" and must figure out who the murderer is before everyone is out.

• Balloon Juggle:

  Toss a few balloons in the air and challenge the group to keep them from touching the ground. This is one of those

  energetic games

  that requires teamwork and lots of laughter.

What Makes a Game a Good Fit for Church?

Have you ever planned a game for your small group that just… fell flat? It happens. But finding the right fit isn’t just about picking a popular game; it’s about choosing an activity that aligns with the heart of your group. Unlike a competitive game night with friends, the goal in a church setting is less about winning and more about connection, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement. A great game for your small group is a tool for ministry. It should be intentionally chosen to help you build a stronger, more open, and more Christ-centered community. When you filter your options through that lens, you’ll find that the best games are the ones that serve your group’s ultimate purpose.

It Builds Genuine Connection

The number one job of a small group game is to build bridges between people. It should be a catalyst for moving beyond surface-level pleasantries and into real, authentic relationships. The right activity helps people lower their guards, share a laugh, and see different sides of each other’s personalities. Especially in the early stages of a group, games are essential to help people feel known and comfortable. A game that encourages sharing simple, fun facts or working together on a silly task can break down walls faster than weeks of casual conversation. It’s about creating a shared experience that says, “You belong here.”

It's Simple and Accessible

Let’s be honest: as a small group leader, you don’t have hours to prepare a complicated activity. The best games are the ones you can explain in two minutes or less. They don’t require a long list of supplies or a complex rulebook that leaves everyone confused. Simplicity is key because it keeps the focus on the people, not the process. You can find plenty of no prep games for church groups that are perfect for pulling out at a moment’s notice. When a game is easy to grasp, new members and visitors can jump right in without feeling intimidated or left out, making your group feel instantly more welcoming.

It Creates Lasting Memories

Think about the inside jokes and stories that bond your closest friends together. Many of them probably came from a shared experience. A good game does more than just fill time; it creates the foundation for those moments. The laughter from a silly round of charades or the teamwork from a group challenge becomes part of your group’s history. These aren’t just frivolous activities; they are opportunities to create lasting memories that strengthen the relational ties of your group. When people look back on their time together, these moments of fun and fellowship are often what they remember most fondly, reinforcing the joy of being part of the body of Christ.

Turn Game Time into Growth Time

Games are the perfect appetizer for a great small group meeting, but they can be so much more than just a warm-up. When chosen and led with intention, games become powerful tools for discipleship. They break down walls, create shared experiences, and open hearts to deeper connection and spiritual truth. The laughter and fun you share over a silly icebreaker can pave the way for a moment of profound vulnerability and prayer later on. It’s in these lighthearted moments that the foundation of trust is built, making it easier for members to share openly when the discussion turns to more serious topics.

Think of game time not as a separate segment, but as an integrated part of your group’s journey together. It’s an opportunity to practice teamwork, exercise creative thinking, and build the kind of trust that fosters a strong community. By intentionally connecting play with purpose, you can transform a simple activity into a memorable lesson that sticks with your group members long after the meeting ends. The key is to see the potential for growth in every game and guide your group toward those moments of discovery. This approach helps everyone see that faith isn't just for the serious moments; it's woven into the fun and fellowship, too.

Incorporate Biblical Themes

You don’t need a game to be explicitly "Christian" for it to have spiritual value. With a little creativity, you can connect almost any activity back to a biblical principle. A game that requires teamwork can spark a discussion on the body of Christ. A challenge that requires careful listening can lead to a conversation about hearing God's voice. The goal is to build a bridge from the activity to the Word.

Many online resources even provide games with a suggested spiritual lesson to make it even easier. Before your group meets, think about your Bible study topic for the day. Then, choose a game that mirrors that theme, whether it’s communication, trust, perseverance, or celebration.

Transition from Play to Discussion

The magic happens in the moments after the game ends. A smooth transition from play to discussion is what turns a fun time into a growth opportunity. Don't just stop the game and jump straight into your lesson. Take a minute to debrief the activity with a few intentional questions. You could ask, "What was challenging about that?" or "What did you learn about working together?"

In the early stages of a group, it’s helpful to use get-to-know-you games so people feel seen and known. As you ask follow-up questions, encourage everyone to listen actively to each other's answers. This simple act builds respect and creates a safe environment for more vulnerable sharing later on.

Use Games to Memorize Scripture

One of the most powerful ways to use games is for scripture memorization. Let’s be honest—memorizing verses can sometimes feel like a chore. But when you make it a game, it becomes an exciting challenge. The friendly competition and repetition help lock God’s Word into the hearts and minds of your group members in a way that feels natural and fun.

You can create simple games like a memory match with verse references and phrases, or a race to put the words of a verse in the correct order. Games like RHEMAin are designed specifically for this purpose, making it easy to build a habit of scripture memorization. This practice equips your group with truth they can recall in moments of need.

Lead Games Like a Pro

Being a great game leader is about more than just knowing the rules. It’s about being a thoughtful host who creates an experience where everyone feels seen, valued, and ready to have fun. When you lead with intention, game time becomes a powerful tool for building connections. Your energy and preparation set the tone, turning a simple game into a memorable moment of fellowship.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

The best game nights start long before the first rule is explained. Your primary goal is to create a space where people can relax and be themselves. Start with a warm greeting for every person who walks in. Simple things like having snacks available can make the environment feel more like a gathering of friends. When it’s time to play, choose a few simple icebreaker games to help everyone ease into the fun and set a positive, inclusive tone for your time together.

Engage Every Personality

A small group is often a mix of personalities, from outgoing extroverts to more reserved introverts. A great leader makes sure everyone has a chance to shine. Plan a variety of activities that appeal to different comfort levels. In the early stages of a group, it’s helpful to use get-to-know-you questions that allow people to share at their own pace. The goal is to make every single person feel known and appreciated for who they are.

Keep the Energy High

Your enthusiasm as a leader is contagious! If you’re excited about the game, your group will be too. Explain the rules clearly and confidently, and don’t be afraid to be a little silly to get things started. A great game leader also knows how to read the room. Keep the pace moving and pay attention to the group’s energy. It’s always better to end a game when everyone is still having a blast than to let it drag on too long.

Steer Clear of These Game-Leading Mistakes

Leading a game seems simple enough, but a few common missteps can turn a fun activity into an awkward one. The goal is always connection and fellowship, so avoiding these pitfalls will help ensure your game time is a success. By being mindful of your group's needs, you can create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and ready to participate.

First, avoid picking a game that doesn't suit your group. A high-energy, get-out-of-your-seat game might be a total flop with a quieter, more reflective group. The key is to choose icebreakers that fit the people you're with. Think about their personalities, ages, and how well they already know each other. A game that puts a shy new member on the spot might do more harm than good. When in doubt, start with something low-key and build from there as you get to know your group's style.

Another common mistake is overcomplicating the rules. If you spend ten minutes explaining how to play a five-minute game, you’ve already lost people’s attention. The best games are easy to understand and jump into quickly. Confusion leads to frustration, not fun. Keep your instructions simple and clear. If a game has multiple steps, consider doing a quick, lighthearted practice round so everyone feels confident before you begin.

Finally, don't forget to encourage a little creativity. Some games can feel stale if the answers are too predictable. When you play an icebreaker like "Two Truths and a Lie," for example, prompt people to come up with interesting facts about themselves. Giving your group the freedom to be playful and imaginative makes the experience more memorable and personal. It helps transform a simple game into a genuine opportunity for sharing and getting to know one another on a deeper level.

Build Your Group's Game Library

Having a few go-to games ready can be a lifesaver for any small group leader. Think of it as building a small library of resources you can pull from at a moment's notice. When you have a collection of activities, you’re prepared for anything—whether you need a quick icebreaker for a new member, a way to fill an unexpected time gap, or a fun activity to reinforce a lesson. A well-rounded game library takes the pressure off planning and allows you to be more present with your group.

Start your collection with a solid foundation of icebreakers. In the early stages of a group, it’s so important to play games that help people feel known and build initial connections. Simple activities like "Two Truths and a Lie" or "Desert Island" encourage personal sharing and help you understand your group's dynamics. These foundational games create a comfortable atmosphere where deeper relationships can begin to form.

Next, add games that are specifically designed to spark spiritual growth. While a good icebreaker is great for community, faith-based games can directly tie into your Bible study. Look for activities that open the door for meaningful discussion or make memorizing scripture fun, like our game RHEMAin. These fun bible study games serve as a natural bridge from fellowship to discipleship, turning playtime into a powerful tool for learning and reflection.

Finally, round out your library with a handful of versatile, no-prep games you can use anytime, anywhere. Activities like Charades (with biblical figures) or Pictionary require nothing more than a pen and paper, making them perfect for spontaneous moments. Having these easy options on hand means you’re always ready to engage your group, whether you’re meeting in a living room, a coffee shop, or outdoors.

Adapt Games for Holidays and Special Events

Holidays and special church events are the perfect time to bring your small group together, and a little festive fun can make your gatherings even more memorable. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel or find brand-new games for every occasion. Instead, you can easily adapt the games you already know and love with a few simple tweaks to fit the season. This small effort makes the experience feel special and keeps your group engaged with the spirit of the holiday.

One of the easiest ways to do this is by swapping out standard prompts with holiday-themed ones. For an icebreaker game, instead of asking for a favorite movie, ask for a favorite Christmas memory or an Easter family tradition. These simple get-to-know-you questions can be tailored to any holiday, from Thanksgiving to Valentine's Day, and help your group connect on a more personal level. You can also give familiar games a seasonal twist. Think Pictionary with prompts from the Christmas story, or charades acting out key events from Holy Week.

Most importantly, use these themed games as a bridge to deeper spiritual conversation. After a fun, lighthearted game, you can gently guide the discussion toward the real meaning of the holiday. For example, after a game focused on giving gifts at Christmas, you could ask, "What's the greatest gift God has given you?" For Easter, a game about new beginnings could lead to a conversation about the new life we have in Christ. Adding a spiritual lesson transforms game time into a meaningful opportunity for growth and reflection, connecting the fun directly to your faith.

Related Articles

• Revelator Games | Christian Games For Small Groups

• Note to the Small Group Leader

• RHEMAin - A Game of Fellowship, Discipleship, and Love | Revelator Games

• RHEMAin - How do I handle Day 1 of the Game?

• FAQ | Revelator Games

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my group thinks games are silly or a waste of our limited time together? That's a totally fair concern. The goal isn't to turn your Bible study into a party, but to use play as a tool to build trust. Think of it as a warm-up that helps everyone relax and connect on a personal level. When people share a laugh over a simple activity, it makes them more comfortable opening up during prayer and discussion later. Start with a short, low-key icebreaker and you might be surprised how it strengthens the more serious parts of your meeting.

How do I make sure a game doesn't feel awkward, especially with new people or introverts? The key is to choose activities where no one is put on the spot. Avoid games that require performing or sharing deeply personal information right away. Instead, opt for simple get-to-know-you questions or team activities where the focus is on collaboration, not individual performance. As the leader, your relaxed and welcoming attitude sets the tone, giving everyone permission to just have fun without pressure.

How much of our small group time should we actually dedicate to games? There's no magic number, but a good rule of thumb is to spend the first 10 to 15 minutes on a game or icebreaker. This is just enough time to break the ice and get everyone engaged without taking away from your study and prayer time. The game should serve as an appetizer for the main course, warming everyone up for deeper connection and conversation.

Do we always have to play a specifically "Christian" game for it to be effective? Not at all! While faith-based games are fantastic, almost any game can be used to build community. The real value comes from the shared experience and the conversations that follow. An activity that requires teamwork can easily lead to a discussion about the body of Christ, and a game about communication can connect to how we listen to God. It’s less about the game itself and more about your intention as a leader to connect it back to your group's purpose.

What's the best way to transition from a fun game back to our Bible study? A smooth transition is all about asking a good follow-up question. After the game ends, take a moment to debrief the experience. You could ask something like, "What did you learn about our group during that activity?" or "What was challenging about working together on that puzzle?" This simple step builds a bridge from the fun you just had to the more focused discussion you're about to have, making the shift feel natural instead of abrupt.