Kenneth J. Collins

Dr. Kenneth J. Collins serves as Professor of Historical Theology and Wesley Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary, where he has been a faculty member since 1995. He concurrently directs the Wesleyan Studies Summer Seminar and the Wesleyan Holiness Pentecostal Studies Center, fostering global scholarship in Wesleyan traditions. Recognized with the 2008 Professor of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, his career spans international lecturing engagements across five continents including recent courses at Moscow Evangelical Christian Seminary and institutions in Costa Rica, South Korea, England, Australia, Finland, and Japan.

His educational foundation includes:

• B.A. from State University of New York at Buffalo (1974)
• M.Div. from Asbury Theological Seminary (1979)
• Th.M. from Princeton Seminary (1980)
• M.Phil. from Drew University (1982)
• Ph.D. from Drew University (1984)

Collins' research centers on Historical Theology and Wesley Studies with specialized focus on John Wesley's theology, Christian spirituality, and American religious history. His work bridges historical analysis with contemporary application through critical examination of Wesleyan thought in modern ecclesial contexts. This interdisciplinary approach integrates theological methodology with historical investigation to explore the development of Methodist traditions and their global impact.

His recent publications demonstrate sustained engagement with Wesleyan theology across diverse applications, from biblical commentary and Christological studies to ecumenical dialogue and spiritual formation. These works collectively advance scholarly understanding of Wesleyan distinctives while addressing contemporary theological challenges through historically-grounded perspectives.

His scientific awards include:

• Professor of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (Asbury Theological Seminary, 2008)
• Exemplary Teaching Award (United Methodist schools national competition, 1994)
• Black Student Movement Award for Excellence in Religious Education (Methodist University)

Collins maintains active leadership in multiple professional organizations including past presidency of the Wesleyan Theological Society. He serves on editorial boards for Wesley and Methodist Studies, Methodist Review, and Australasian Centre for Wesleyan Research, while contributing to the Institute on Religion and Democracy. His directorship of the Wesleyan Studies Summer Seminar drives international collaboration through annual research intensives, with the 2023 centenary celebration marking a significant milestone in global Wesleyan scholarship.