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.
Together, we aim to bridge the gap between church-based studies and college-level courses, strengthening the church for greater impact.
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
ACCESIBILITY
Be accessible and less rigorous than standard academic courses.
DEVELOP
MINISTRY SKILLS
Equip and empower individuals with a strong foundation in Christian ministry.
HOW IT WORKS
Church Responsibilities:
Provide space, basic technology (e.g., projector), and optional refreshments.
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.
CERTIFICATE IN 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.
BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
instructs how to view the storyline of Scripture while rooting ministry within God's redemptive program.
DISCIPLEMAKING
challenges believers to shape their ministry philosophy after that of Jesus.
SPIRITUAL FORMATION
assumes that inner transformation leads to fruitful outward character and life patterns.
APOLOGETICS
presents how Christians may navigate the world as it is in order to competently and confidently lead others to live in the world as God is remaking it to be.
COLLEGE
CREDIT
Successful completion of these courses may later translate into college or seminary credit, bridging the gap between church-based studies and academic education.
NEXT AVAILABLE
COURSE:
An exploration of spiritual formation by examining the Scriptures as well as historic and contemporary spiritual practices of the Christian faith. The course also helps students develop a solid and informed foundation for growth in personal discipleship in pursuit of a well-lived life as a follower of Jesus Christ.
COURSE DETAILS
This program is open to all churches. Central Church is the host venue, but participants from other churches are welcome!
