In the summer of 2000, our pastor had a vision. He dreamed of hundreds of people attending numerous elective classes offering our members, guests and the community an opportunity to learn more about the Bible as it applies to their daily lives. Numerous churches have “Discipleship Training” courses. However, we began to think of going a little further with that idea. Ultimately, Equipping University has become a systematic educational journey similar in scope to the curriculum at a small Christian college. In Paul’s second letter to Timothy, he reminded the young minister that “all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” We want to offer classes on every level so that each and every person learns how the Bible intersects with life and is equipped with Biblical knowledge to be ready to face the world and all its challenges.
Current Session
Equipping University
2023 Spring Semester
Starting March 1 - May 3, 2023
Words, words, WORD – a Christian Syntax for Life – Room 151
Led by David Moss
When we read “the Word became flesh,” we emphasize Jesus becoming a person like us. This
is logical and true. But how does a word, The Word become incarnate and how is this
important? This is a study of meaning and language— what is the incarnation of the Word and
how does it help us understand meaning in the Scriptures and in our lives?
Your Emotions, Sanctification and You – Room 156
Led by Dan Wilemon (Pre-registration required)
What would humans be like if we never became emotional, if we were capable of controlling
emotions at all times? If that were the case, our response to all situations would be purely
logical, never emotional. But God created us in His image, and God’s emotions are revealed in
the Scriptures; therefore, God created us as emotional beings.
This class will study what the Bible says about our emotions and the mind. We will explore
some particular emotions, such as anxiety, fear, stress, depression, anger, and motivation. And
for those dealing with any of these emotions, practical steps and solutions will be provided. We
will discover God’s process for how to change and deal with these emotions.
College Age and 20’s Group – Room 145
Led by Brian Pestotnik
This is a group of college-age or young professionals who are seeking to build community with
each other, digging into scripture with small group discussion and praying for one another. This
is a great group for those who are new to the church.
The Last Week of Jesus – Room 149
Led by Andy Lackey
On a Sunday in March around 2000 years ago, Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem and boldly
predicted that he would soon be put to death―executed on a cross, like a common criminal. So
began the most important week of the most important person who ever lived.
Nearly 2,000 years later, the events that occurred during Jesus’s last days still affect our world
today. In this study, we will look at each of those days of the final week of Jesus: from his
triumphal entry on Palm Sunday to his resurrection on the first Easter. We will study and
meditate on the history-making significance of Jesus’s arrest, trial, crucifixion, and empty tomb.
We will see why the Gospel writers devoted so much of their writings to Jesus’ final days. And
we will better understand what happened during that final week ―and why it matters today.
About Equipping University
The Purpose of Equipping University is to glorify God by equipping His people to think theologically, engage globally, and live biblically. Classes are designed to encourage Christians to relate everyday life situations to the truth of God’s Word, one verse at a time.
When?
Equipping University begins at 6:30 PM on Wednesday nights on a “semester” schedule. A selection of up to twelve classes are offered for anywhere from eight to twelve weeks. If you are not able to attend a class, most of the classes will be recorded and can be accessed on our church website.
Who?
Anyone who desires to study God’s Word in order to begin or continue to grow in his or her Christian walk is welcome. You do not have to be a Christian or a church member to participate. All classes are open to the community so please feel free to invite your friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers.
Cost?
Generally speaking, there is no cost for the courses offered. However, some classes might utilize a workbook or offer the opportunity to purchase the book on which the class is based. For some classes, these materials are necessary and this information will be readily available in each semester’s class listing. If a class requires or suggests the purchase of books or study guides, these materials may be purchased at cost.