These four values function as arrows that we shoot at seven specific targets, seven
essential aspects of Christian discipleship in the life of each Northland
student. First, we want each student to be dedicated to God in an unreserved
lifetime commitment to God (Rom. 12:1–2). Second, we are committed to helping students
devote themselves to others with unselfish, sacrificial love for others (Mark
10:44; 1 Cor. 13). Third, we strive to develop in each student disciplined
spiritual life patterns marked by a sustained daily effort to be controlled and
directed by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 9:25–27; 1 Tim. 4:7). Fourth, we exhort
each student to demonstrate a dependable spirit by accepting and discharging
responsibility for his life and actions (Prov. 25:19; 1 Cor. 4:2). Fifth, we
work hard at helping each student develop a discerning mind with the ability to
see people and circumstances as they really are from a biblical perspective (1
Cor. 2:14; Heb. 5:14). Sixth, we challenge each student to adopt a discreet
lifestyle, demonstrating the ability to avoid wrong words, actions, and
attitudes (Psalm 112:5; Rom. 13:14; Eph. 4:29–30). Finally, we push each
student to adopt a discipleship mindset in order to transfer his life's
convictions to others (Matt. 28:19–20; Luke 6:40; 2 Tim. 2:2).
Every aspect of a student's experience at Northland is designed to touch
one or more of these values or targets. The first-year curriculum is created to
bring these four values to bear on these seven targets. Each encounter with the
Student Life Office is designed to touch on these values and targets. Dorm life
and athletic events are also structured to further discipleship on our campus.
Each week's chapel services are prayerfully planned so that these targets and
values are regular preaching topics. Each activity in the student calendar is scheduled
to help get the values to one or more of the targets. Institutional budget
decisions are made with these values and targets in mind. In short, at
Northland, we are committed to making discipleship a priority rather than an
incidental activity. Dr. Ollila says it this way: “We are not an academic
institution trying to make disciples; rather, we are a disciple-making
institution attempting to provide a quality academic program.” Make no mistake;
let it be clearly stated—discipleship is our first priority. If we graduate a
student achieving academic honors but lacking the commitment and heart desire
to be an obedient disciple of Christ, we have failed in our mission with that
student. We remain unchangeably committed to making disciples for Jesus Christ.