Péter Balla

Péter Balla is a distinguished University Professor and current International Relations Vice-Rector at Károli Gáspár Reformed University (KRE), where he has served since 1994. He is Head of the New Testament Department at the Faculty of Theology and has held numerous leadership positions including Rector (2011-2019), Religious Vice-Rector, and previously served as Deputy Dean. His academic journey began with theological studies at the University of Edinburgh, where he earned his PhD in 1994 with a dissertation on New Testament theology.

Ball has made significant contributions to New Testament scholarship with his research focusing on Pauline studies, New Testament canon history, biblical exegesis, and the child-parent relationship in biblical context. His major publications include commentaries on Galatians and 2 Corinthians, as well as foundational works on New Testament writings and theology. His scholarly approach combines rigorous textual analysis with historical contextualization and contemporary application.

Ball's academic output demonstrates consistent engagement with both theoretical theological questions and practical biblical interpretation. His works span from detailed linguistic studies of New Testament Greek to broader examinations of New Testament theology's coherence and relevance. The trajectory of his scholarship shows increasing focus on the practical application of biblical texts in contemporary contexts while maintaining scholarly rigor.

• Bolyai Plaque (2009) from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences
• Pro Universitate Award (2019) from KRE
• Soli Deo Gloria Award (2019) from Nagykőrösi Reformed Church
• Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of Hungary (2024)

As a dedicated educator, Ball has supervised numerous doctoral students and served on various academic committees. His research has been supported by prestigious grants including multiple MTA Bolyai János Research Scholarships and Alexander von Humboldt Foundation awards. Internationally, he has maintained significant academic connections, particularly with Stellenbosch University in South Africa where he served as Research Fellow and Research Associate for over a decade. His work bridges Hungarian Reformed theological tradition with international scholarly discourse in New Testament studies.