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CHURCH
EQUIPPING INSTITUTE
The NEBCS Church Equipping Institute empowers churches to disciple and
develop their members by offering accessible theological education.
Through partnerships with local congregations, we equip believers with the tools and knowledge for spiritual growth and effective ministry.
HOW IT WORKS
Church Responsibilities:
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Provide space, basic technology (e.g., projector), and optional refreshments.
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Help advertise & invite
NEBCS Support:
Professors with expertise in theology and ministry will teach the courses, manage student records, and coordinate with church leadership.
Delivery and Participation:
Courses may be taught with the professor in person or via Zoom, according to agreed upon arrangement.
Students from outside the host church are welcome to participate in accordance with the philosophy and goals of the host church.
Theological Posture:
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Inter-denominational and respectful of diverse Christian traditions.
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Professors teach in line with the historic Evangelical Christian faith.
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Collaborative engagement with church leadership to contextualize course material.
Partnership with Church Leadership:
Professor will coordinate with host church leadership to build in opportunities for pastor/elder/leader to reflect and discuss how course material may impact, shape, or build up the respective church.
NEBCS does not desire to stand in place of the church's leadership; we wish to come alongside and be a valuable resource to the host church.
We aim to bridge the gap between church-based studies and college-level courses, strengthening the church for greater impact.
2 Certificate
Tracks Available!
Track 1: Christian Ministry Foundations
Build a strong foundation for Christian life and ministry through four integrated courses designed to help you understand the biblical story, cultivate spiritual maturity, make disciples like Jesus, and confidently engage others with the truth of the gospel.
Track 2: Applied Theology
Understand foundational Christian truth and learn to apply it to the world around you while developing a biblical framework for engaging culture, communicating the gospel, and faithfully living out their Christian faith in everyday life.
NEBCS is partnering with local churches to equip their members, while respecting and reinforcing local leadership, to:
STRENGTHEN CURRENT TRAINING
Complement and extend beyond what churches typically provide.
INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY
Be accessible and less rigorous than standard academic courses.
DEVELOP MINISTRY SKILLS
Equip and empower individuals with a strong foundation in Christian ministry.
Track 1
Christian Ministry Foundations: Students may complete all of the courses below to receive the Certificate in Christian Ministry Foundations. This certificate demonstrates student commitment and dedication to establish foundations necessary for serving in a local church as either a member or leader.
Disciple Like Jesus: The Theology and Practice of Disciple-Making
Spiritual Disciplines & Formation: Cultivating a Life of Spiritual Maturity and Fruitfulness
Apologetics as a Way of Life: Defending the Faith with Confidence, Humility, and Grace
Track 2
Applied Theology: What do Christians believe — and why does it matter? This Applied Theology Certificate takes you on a journey through the core convictions of the Christian faith, the sweeping story of church history, the worldviews shaping the culture around you, and the God-given meaning of your everyday work. Whether you're new to theological study or looking to deepen what you already know, these four courses will ground you in historic Christian truth and equip you to live it out — in your relationships, your conversations, and your vocation.
Essential Theology: Understanding the Foundational Truths of the Christian Faith.
The Story of the Church: Discovering the People and Movements that Shaped Christianity
The Christian at Work: Honoring God Through our Vocation
What's the Big Deal About Worldviews: Understanding how People Think and how to Share the Gospel Clearly
NEXT AVAILABLE COURSES:
Track 1
Apologetics as a Way of Life
Biblically speaking, the sharing of one’s faith is to be done in dependence upon the Holy Spirit, and with humility, gentleness, and respect. This course is intended to equip students with knowledge, strategies, and skills, which will impart a sense of competence and confidence when defending the faith.
Dr. Johnson
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Schedule: November 5 - December 17 (no class on Nov. 26)
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Days: Thursdays, 6:00 - 7:30pm, ET
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Duration: 6 classes, 1.5 hours each
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Requirements: Attendance, assigned readings, & 1-2 reflective assignments
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Cost: $100 per course, per student
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Location: Online via Zoom
Track 2
The Story of the Church
Covers the broad sweep of church history with focus upon explaining the rise of various denominations and movements.
Dr. Vermilion
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Schedule: November 2 - December 7
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Days: Mondays, 6:00 - 7:30pm, ET
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Duration: 6 classes, 1.5 hours each
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Requirements: Attendance, assigned readings, & 1-2 reflective assignments
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Cost: $100 per course, per student
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Location: Online via Zoom