The Servant Leadership Institute (SLI) exists to equip men of the local church in their knowledge of God’s Word, theology, and practical leadership so they can serve as humble, effective leaders for Christ’s kingdom & His glory.
Following Paul’s charge in 2 Timothy 2:2 — “entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” — SLI is not just an educational program. It’s a multi-year investment by our pastors to shape men’s:
- content (knowledge of Scripture)
- character (Christlike maturity)
- competency (servant-hearted leadership)
Whether your aspiration is for the elder’s office or the humble ranks of faithful men, SLI exists to deepen your joy in Christ, multiply your usefulness, and forge you into a servant-leader that rightly handles the Word of Truth and effectively leads his respective ministry in loving manner of the Chief Shepherd.
Schedule
SPRING
Hermeneutics
Old Testament Survey I
FALL
Old Testament Survey II
Noble Calling I - Ecclesiology
SPRING
Noble Calling II - Pastoral Ministry
New Testament Survey
FALL
Systematic Theology I
Counseling
SPRING
Systematic Theology II
Preaching
SLI requires a time commitment but is designed to be manageable for men actively involved in work, family, and church life.
Expect:
- Attend 8–10 live lectures per semester
- Read approx. 1,000 pages per semester
- Complete writing assignments and reflection papers
- Take quizzes and exams to reinforce learning
⚠ Note: Enrollment in SLI in no way constitutes an implicit guarantee of eldership; rather, it serves as a deliberate, structured avenue of theological and spiritual formation, aimed at equipping men for the manifold ministries God has sovereignly ordained for each (Ephesians 2:10).
Frequently Asked Questions
If I want to go to seminary, should I apply and attend SLI?
If you desire to enter vocational ministry or pastoral work full-time, we would encourage you to pursue a formal seminary education. SLI is designed as an in between for men who want to be equipped in theology, leadership, and ministry, but who do not necessarily see themselves heading into vocational pastorate roles. The aim is to prepare lay leaders — men who desire to serve effectively as elders, shepherds, and servant leaders within the local church.
Is this program accredited?
No, SLI is not an accredited academic program. It is a local church initiative designed specifically for equipping the men of City Bible Church for servant leadership in the context of our local body.
Can I transfer class credit from SLI to another Bible college or seminary after I complete the program?
No. All coursework, assignments, and training completed in SLI are for the purpose of equipping you for leadership within City Bible Church. The program is not designed to grant transferable credit to outside institutions.
How much time should I expect to commit each semester?
You should plan for about 8–10 in-person lectures per semester, plus the time needed to complete readings (~1,000 pages), written assignments, and exams. This is designed to be a rigorous but manageable workload, even for men who are working full time, leading their families, and serving in the church.
Is there a cost to attend SLI?
Currently, SLI is offered at no tuition cost to participants, though there may be costs associated with purchasing required books or materials.
If I complete SLI, does that guarantee I will become an elder?
No. Completing SLI does not automatically place you in a formal leadership or elder role. While the program is designed to help prepare and equip men who aspire to such positions, elder qualification is determined by the elder board through a separate evaluation and appointment process.
Can I participate if I’m not sure I want to be an elder?
Yes! SLI is open to men who simply want to deepen their knowledge of God’s Word and grow as servant leaders — whether or not they end up in a formal leadership role. If you have a hunger to grow, serve, and strengthen the church, this program is for you.
What are the qualifications for applying?
We are looking for faithful, committed men who:
Are members of City Bible Church
Are actively involved in the life and ministry of the church
Desire to grow in their theological understanding, leadership skills, and personal maturity in Christ
If you’re married, we also ask for your wife’s input on the application to help ensure this commitment is a good fit for your current season of family life.
Can I start SLI during Year 2 or Year 3, or does it have to be at the beginning of the 3-year program?
You may begin SLI at any point in the 3-year program. New cohorts are welcomed regularly, and men who start later will cycle back through the Year 1 courses to ensure they receive the full scope of training.