Cells are open, evangelism-focused small groups that are entwined into the life of the church. They meet weekly to build up (edify) each other as members of the Body of Christ, and to spread the gospel to those who don’t know Jesus.

The ultimate goal of each cell is to multiply itself as the group grows through evangelism and then conversions. This is how new members are added to the church and to the kingdom of God. Members of cell groups are also encouraged to attend the [weekend] celebration service of the entire church, where cells come together for worship.”

The idea of cells has long been a part of Adventist understanding of church structure albeit under various other names. For example, one of our founders noted in 1902:

The formation of small companies as a basis of Christian effort is a plan that has been presented before me by One who cannot err. If there is a large number in the church, let the members be formed into small companies, to work not only for the church members but for unbelivers also.

There is great need of secret prayer, but there is also need that several Christians meet together, and unite with earnestness their petitions to God. In these small companies Jesus is present, the love of souls is deepened in the heart, and the Spirit puts forth its mighty energies, that human agents may be exercised in regard to saving those who are lost.

Living Water seeks to recapture the essence of biblical community through what some call Basic Christian Community or Christ's Basic Bodies. Since 9/11 the use of the word cell has fallen into disrepute but from a physiological perspective the “cell,” as a biological reality, fits perfectly the spiritual reality of life together as the body of Christ.

The cell is the basic building block of the church. In other words, if there were only one ‘cell,’ there would be ‘church.’ However, unlike ‘house churches,’ a single cell does not stand alone… all cells in a community or region gather to worship God as the ‘Great Congregation’ (see Psalm 68:26).

In a program-based church, it is possible to attend the weekly worship service and not be involved in any other programs of the church. In a cell-based church that is impossible. The cell church is organized around its cells. Each cell [group] is led by a Cell Facilatator and a Cell Facilatator Intern. Cells meet every week in one of the member’s homes. They are not bound to one home, moving freely between homes. This helps to build a special bond between the members.

In a cell, edification takes place as members care for one another, using spiritual gifts and support systems. Each cell is on a mission. It is constantly in touch with the unreached and is constantly ministering to them.

Note once again early Adventist understanding of life together:

Let small companies assemble in the evening, at noon, or in the early morning to study the Bible. Let them have a season of prayer, that they may be strengthened, enlightened, and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. . . . If you yourselves will open the door to receive it, a great blessing will come to you. Angels of God will be in your assembly. You will feed upon the leaves of the tree of life.

The motivation for cell ministry is evangelism and church growth. Some people believe that the main purpose of cell ministry is edification of the saints, or even pastoral care. But the largest cell churches in the world tell a different story. These churches strategically planned to conquer their cities for Christ, and their cell ministry made this feat possible.