Kara J. Lyons-Pardue

Kara J. Lyons-Pardue is a full-time Professor of New Testament at Point Loma Nazarene University since 2011. With a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Princeton Theological Seminary, she specializes in Gospel studies, particularly the Gospel of Mark, and explores themes of women in Scripture through her research.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Princeton Theological Seminary (2015)
  • M.Div., Nazarene Theological Seminary (2005)
  • B.A., Northwest Nazarene University (2002)

Her scholarly work spans textual criticism, feminist biblical studies, and theological interpretation. She has contributed significantly to discussions on Markan endings, female witnesses in Gospels, and intertextual dialogues between Old and New Testament narratives.

Dr. Lyons-Pardue’s recent publications include a 2025 co-authored analysis of emotions in Markan endings and a 2022 book chapter comparing Esther and Mark. She is currently writing a commentary on Mark’s Gospel, emphasizing accessibility and theological depth.

• Scientific Awards and Grants:
  • Excellence in Teaching Awards (2019-20, 2023-24)
  • Outstanding Dissertation Award (2016)
  • Goethe Institut Stipendium (2009)
  • Multiple RASP and Wesleyan Center Fellowships

She actively contributes to professional organizations, including co-chairing the SBL Gospel of Mark section and serving on the Bulletin for Biblical Research editorial board. Her work bridges academic rigor with practical ministry, ordained as a Church of the Nazarene educator elder in 2015.