With so much conflict in the world, it is easy for us to become depressed and maybe even want to “give up.”  The Book of Hebrews speaks to the early believers because they faced similar situations and were tempted to “throw in the towel. ”Hebrews is a thesis on a new way of living that will help us when we become weary. Five times we are advised not to give up. The door through the cross to the Throne of God has been opened by the Blood of Jesus Christ. Now we can boldly include our name in Hebrews 11 as men and women of faith."

Church growth begins with an important observation: healthy things grow. It should be natural and expected for every church to grow. However, church growth is not automatic. It is the result of leaders who pursue growth and a spirit of excellence, who present vision and goals, and who help establish core values in the church which encourage growth. Growing churches are led by growing leaders who understand that the church must be prepared for the growth that God brings.

In his course, The Character of a Leader, Rev. Richard Hinojosa provides an in-depth look at the characteristics which make for godly, effective leadership.  A successful leader is a listener, an encourager, someone who is accountable, diligent, enthusiastic, self-controlled and a person of prayer.  He is someone who has integrity, leads by example, and has an accurate self-image. Rev. Hinojosa also deals with the many obstacles and challenges that face a leader including:  guarding your attitudes; submitting to authority; maintaining people’s respect and guarding your relationships.  Additionally, Brother Hinojosa provides life-changing, practical tools such as “four pride busters;” “understanding the grasshopper cycle;” and “keys of leading in life.” This is a course from which every leader can benefit.

Practical Lab is designed to secure a strong foundation for true Christian leadership. True Christian leadership consists of three things: Living what we learn (practical ministry), a knowledge of scripture acquired by a disciplined bible reading/study habit and the ability to articulate your spiritual growth to others.

 This course addresses the practical application of the leadership/ministry principles and tools that are the foundation of the Nation-2-Nation curriculum by getting the student to seek out and participate in a variety of ministry opportunities.

The Practical Ministry lab is an opportunity to do the real work of ministry throughout each semester. You will be responsible for engaging in church sanctioned ministry activities and submitting electronic reports of your activity back to N2NCU. Talk to your pastor or leadership to find out how you can help.

The Bible Reading lab will take the student through the entire New Testament and one quarter of the Old Testament for every three semesters completed. Upon completion of the bachelor program you will have read the New Testament four times and the Old Testament once. Your bible reading discipline will be well established by following the weekly bible reading schedule.

The Testimony section gives you, the student, a chance to put into words the changes that are taking place in you, your ministry, and your relationships. Your testimony also encourages others to seek growth in their own spiritual lives and reminds all of what God can do when you follow hard after Him.