معرفی
Dr. Heath A. Thomas serves as the 16th President of Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) since 2020, concurrently holding the title of Professor of Old Testament. Previously, he was dean of the Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry and associate vice president for church relations. He holds a B.A. in English Literature (OBU, 1998), M.A. in Theology (Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), and a Ph.D. in Old Testament (University of Gloucestershire, UK). His academic leadership includes roles at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Baylor University's leadership program.
Thomas specializes in Old Testament theology, biblical hermeneutics, and interdisciplinary approaches to Scripture. His research focuses on prophetic literature (especially Habakkuk and Lamentations), divine violence, creation care ethics, and theological interpretation methodologies. Notable works include Faith Amid the Ruins: The Book of Habakkuk, co-authored A Manifesto for Theological Interpretation, and commentaries on Samuel and Isaiah-Ezekiel.
His publications span peer-reviewed articles in Currents in Biblical Research, Vetus Testamentum, and Bulletin for Biblical Research, alongside edited volumes addressing holy war in the Bible and lamentation studies. He actively bridges scholarly exegesis with pastoral and missional applications, emphasizing Christ-centered engagement with Scripture.
Awards and recognition are not explicitly listed, but his influence is evident through academic appointments and prolific writing. Thomas advocates for holistic theological education, integrating biblical scholarship with practical ministry and ethical stewardship of creation.
