My name is Jeff Hopple. I live in the south-central portion of the state of Virginia, U.S.A. I married my high school and youth group sweetheart in 1999. Julie and I are happily married, and we have four wonderful children. The preaching and teaching ministry training at the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) equips me for my ministry calling from God.
My Journey to Jesus
Having grown up in a Christian home, I always believed what the Bible said. There was never a time when I didn’t think that God existed and that Jesus was His son who died for me. I was on the Bible quiz team, paid attention in church and Sunday School, and had all the head knowledge possible.
However, there was still one problem. I wasn’t trusting Jesus as my Savior. My pride convinced me that I was good enough. My sins were the acceptable kind. You know, the ones no one ever calls anyone out on, a lie here or there, pride, gossip, and such. I wasn’t one of those nasty, rebellious kids. Therefore, I never thought I needed to repent of anything.
Then, one weekend at youth camp, the message that Saturday night hit home. For the first time, I realized MY sins put Jesus on the cross. My sins, even those “acceptable” ones, put nails through Jesus’ hands and feet. That was the night I put my trust in Jesus for the payment of my sins. That changed everything for me. I wasn’t doing good to make me look good anymore. After that, I desired to please God with my life. My perspective changed. My motive and life changed.
Living for Jesus
As I began to live for Jesus, I also started studying to teach what I was learning. There were doors of opportunity to serve Him, and I felt called to open them. With no formal training, I had opportunities to teach the youth group I was in. Since that time, I desired to serve in whatever capacity was necessary (deacon, setting up chairs for church, youth leader, worship team, VBS sets, etc.). However, I have always felt God’s calling to teach and preach.
Preaching and Teaching Ministry Training at CLI
My purpose for studying with the Christian Leaders Institute is because I can’t, and shouldn’t, put off God’s calling anymore. Since I trusted Jesus as my Savior, I always felt that my spiritual gift was preaching. I currently serve our church as a youth leader and adult Sunday School teacher. Therefore, I am led to formal preaching and teaching ministry training. CLI teaches these ministry points and so much more.
Furthermore, my wife and I see a great need in our community and church for marriage counseling and ministry. There are numerous areas that I can grow in to allow me to minister more effectively and broadly. The format of CLI is a blessing. It enables me to continue to work and support my family while giving me the flexibility to do all the other things that life requires.
Register a Study Account
Register for a free study account, automatically enrolling you in the Getting Started Class at the Christian Leaders Learning Platform. The Getting Started class will take you less than an hour to complete.
When you log in to the Learning Platform, you will notice that the Getting Started Class automatically appears on your dashboard.
The Getting Started Class will orientate you to the Christian Leaders Learning Platform and the Programs offered, including:
- Ministry Awards, Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees with the Christian Leaders Institute.
- Minister Credentialling (Ordination) with the Christian Leaders Alliance, including local Soul Center registration possibilities.
Note: You can enroll in tuition-free courses or mini-courses immediately without finishing the getting started class.
Find out more about women in ministry here.
