The two most important components of INSTE's educational system are individual daily study using the INSTE study materials and weekly group meetings directed by a group leader from your local church.

This unique approach to discipleship and leadership training is based on INSTE's commitment to learning that combines knowing, doing and being. The small group (no more than ten in Level One and seven in Level Two) is a key component that ties what the student is learning in his or her daily study (knowing) to his/her life experiences (doing) through dynamic reflection with other group members and the group leader, which leads to spiritual formation (being).

INSTE provides a complete curriculum, materials and records, a proven methodology plus group leader training and support. Following the criteria listed by INSTE, the church nominates a person to lead a group and a place to meet (home or church) plus encouragement and opportunities for growing disciples.