Enrique Sanz Giménez-Rico, SJ is a Professor at the Faculty of Theology of Comillas Pontifical University , where he has taught for over two decades. His academic journey includes a Licentiate in Trilingual Biblical Philology (Pontifical University of Salamanca, 1990) Licentiate in Sacred Scripture (Pontifical Biblical Institute, 1997) Doctorate in Theology (Comillas Pontifical University, 2000) . Specializing in Old Testament theology and spirituality , his research focuses on the Theology of the Pentateuch , Theology of the Psalter , and Greek Philology . His recent publications explore themes like prophetic literature , divine mercy , and biblical foundations for environmental ethics , reflecting a synthesis of Hebrew Bible studies and contemporary theological challenges . Scientific contributions include Sexenio Campo 11 accreditation in Philosophy, Philology, and Linguistics (2011-2018) ACAP certification as Professor Doctor of Private University (2007) . Professional roles encompass Rector of Comillas Pontifical University (2021-2024) Dean of Theology and Canon Law Faculties (2015-2021) Director of the Department of Sacred Scripture and Church History (2011-2015) .
Prof. Dr. Koert van Bekkum serves as Professor and Department Chair of Old Testament at the Evangelische Theologische Faculteit Leuven (ETF Leuven), where he also holds the position of Academic Vice Dean for Research since 2022. Previously, he was an Associate Professor of Old Testament at ETF Leuven (2018-2020) and continues to hold an Associate Professor position at Theological University Kampen since 2018. His academic career spans biblical scholarship, theological education, and research leadership in the field of Old Testament studies within the Reformed tradition. His educational background includes: PhD from Theological University Kampen (2010) with highest honors, dissertation: 'From Conquest to Coexistence: Ideology and Antiquarian Intent in the Historiography of Israel's Settlement in Canaan' Basiskwalificatie Onderwijs, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (2014) Visiting PhD Candidate, Archaeological Institute, Hebrew University Jerusalem (2000) Member Megiddo Expedition (1998, 2000) Drs. theol., Theological University Kampen (1997) VWO-diploma (gymnasium), Gomarus College, Groningen (1989) Van Bekkum's research interests span multiple dimensions of Old Testament scholarship, with particular emphasis on biblical historiography, archaeology of the Southern Levant, and the intersection of biblical studies with Reformed theology. His work demonstrates deep engagement with ancient Near Eastern contexts, biblical chronology, and the theological interpretation of scripture. He has made significant contributions to understanding biblical covenants, ancient Israelite history, and the relationship between biblical texts and archaeological evidence. His scholarship often bridges traditional Reformed theological perspectives with contemporary academic approaches to biblical studies, creating a distinctive voice in the field that values both confessional commitments and scholarly rigor. His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on the intersection of biblical texts with historical and archaeological contexts, particularly regarding the chronology of ancient Israel and the Southern Levant. Van Bekkum frequently examines how biblical narratives interact with ancient Near Eastern contexts, as seen in his work on Joshua, Deuteronomy, and biblical covenants. His scholarship shows a growing interest in reception history and how biblical texts have been interpreted across different eras, including contemporary contexts of religious pluralism. Notably, he has engaged with controversial topics like the Shapira forgeries and biblical chronology, demonstrating willingness to tackle complex scholarly debates while maintaining theological integrity. Van Bekkum is actively involved in academic service, serving on the Executive Board of the Netherlands School for Advanced Studies in Theology and Religion (2017-), as a member of the American Schools of Oriental Research (2019-), and previously as Secretary of the Oudtestamentisch Werkgezelschap in Nederland en België (2017-2022). His leadership extends to editorial roles, including previous service on the Editorial Board of Verantwoordingsreeks (2014-2017) and the Board of the Society for Christian Philosophy (2013-2017). His academic work is characterized by a commitment to integrating biblical scholarship with Reformed theological tradition while engaging constructively with contemporary scholarly debates. Van Bekkum's research demonstrates how historical-critical methods can coexist with confessional theological commitments, offering a model for evangelical scholarship that is both academically rigorous and theologically faithful.
Nevin Reda serves as Associate Professor of Muslim Studies and Director of the Muslim Studies program (MPS) at Emmanuel College, Victoria University within the University of Toronto. Her academic leadership spans Qur'anic scholarship, Islamic legal theory, and interfaith education, with active teaching in courses such as Surat al-Baqara, Islamic Law, and Bible-Qur'an Dialogue. Her educational foundation includes: BSc, Cairo University (1989) MA, University of Toronto (2003) PhD, University of Toronto (2010) Dr. Reda's research centers on Qur'anic poetics and narrative structure, integrating literary theory, Islamic spiritual care, and Biblical Hebrew studies. She pioneers spiritually integrative approaches to Islamic ethical-legal theory (uṣūl al-fiqh) and develops interreligious pedagogies that bridge theological divides. Her work critically engages gender justice, domestic violence interpretations, and democratic theology through Qur'anic exegesis, emphasizing contextual hermeneutics and feminist perspectives. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2024-2010) reveals dominant trends in Qur'anic narrative analysis, gender-ethics intersections in Islamic law, and postcolonial interfaith dialogue frameworks. Key subfields include spiritually integrative readings of verse 4:34, reform of uṣūl al-fiqh for marriage ethics, and comparative Torah-Qur'an exegesis, demonstrating consistent methodological innovation across disciplines. No scientific awards were documented in the source material. As MPS Director, Dr. Reda mentors graduate students in Muslim Studies while advancing curriculum development for intercultural theological education. Her scholarly output—including two monographs and collaborations with institutions like Women and Memory Forum—reflects sustained research leadership, though specific grant details remain unreported. Current projects focus on Qur'anic structure theory and decolonizing epistemologies in religious studies.
Steven L. McKenzie is Professor of Religious Studies and Spence L. Wilson Senior Research Fellow at Rhodes College, specializing in Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) studies, biblical archaeology, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. His academic career spans decades of influential scholarship and editorial leadership. His educational background includes: Th.D. from Harvard University B.A. and M.Div. from Abilene Christian University McKenzie's research focuses on the history of ancient Israel, Hebrew Bible literature, Hebrew language and grammar, biblical interpretation methods, and the intersection of archaeology with biblical studies. He pioneered work on the Deuteronomistic History and Chronicler's literature, establishing foundational frameworks still referenced today. His interdisciplinary approach bridges textual analysis with historical context, making complex scholarship accessible to broader audiences. His publication trajectory reveals consistent engagement with biblical historiography and interpretation, evolving from technical studies like The Chronicler's Use of the Deuteronomistic History (1985) to accessible works such as How to Read the Bible (2005), and culminating in major reference works including the Oxford Encyclopedia of Biblical Interpretation (2013). Recent projects focus on editorial leadership for the Oxford Bible Commentary series. Key honors include: Spence L. Wilson Senior Research Fellowship McKenzie's academic service demonstrates exceptional commitment: founding the Deuteronomistic History Section at the Society of Biblical Literature, serving as associate editor of Vetus Testamentum (2010-2019), and contributing to editorial boards of Journal of Biblical Literature and Catholic Biblical Quarterly . His decade-long leadership of academic tours through the Middle East and Greece with the Middle East Travel Seminar extended his scholarship into experiential education, while media appearances on Discovery and History channels brought biblical scholarship to public audiences.
J. Ross Wagner is an Associate Professor of New Testament at Duke University's Divinity School since 2013. He holds a Ph.D. from Duke University (1999) and previously taught at Princeton Theological Seminary for 15 years. His research focuses on Pauline epistles, Septuagint studies, and theological exegesis, emphasizing how scriptural interpretation shaped early Jewish-Christian communities. Key works include Reading the Sealed Book (2013) and Heralds of the Good News (2002). Professor Wagner's teaching spans courses like New Testament Interpretation , Old Testament in the New , and Philippians/Philemon . He has co-investigated the Wabash Center grant Fostering a Culture of Teaching (2017–2022). His work bridges biblical scholarship with missional and contextual interpretation, as seen in studies applying Romans to post-hurricane Honduras. His scholarship intersects with Karl Barth Center collaborations and includes engagements with religious education initiatives. Current research continues exploring Paul's use of scripture, intertextuality, and the theological implications of Septuagint translation practices.
Dr. Peter Link is an Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Charleston Southern University's College of Christian Studies, where he has taught since 2012. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies (Old Testament) from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (2012), a Master of Divinity in Biblical Languages (2005), and a Bachelor of Science in Radio-Television-Film from the University of Texas at Austin (1990). Ph.D., Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary M.Div., Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary B.S., University of Texas at Austin Dr. Link specializes in Old Testament interpretation, with a focus on the Pentateuch, Biblical Hebrew, and hermeneutics. His research explores thematic connections in Deuteronomy, eschatological frameworks, and typological links between biblical figures. He actively engages in academic service through Leadership in EPIC Bible Study Teacher Training Sessions Presentations at Evangelical Theological Society meetings Recent publications demonstrate his expertise in Deuteronomic theology Paul's Old Testament citations Adam typology in biblical narratives His work combines textual analysis with theological synthesis to emphasize the Christological unity of Scripture. Scientific recognition includes Three nominations for Excellence in Teaching Awards (2014-2015, 2015-2016, 2017-2018) Professionally affiliated with Evangelical Theological Society (ETS) Society of Biblical Literature (SBL)
Erik Waaler is a Professor of Theology, Religion and Philosophy at NLA University College in Sandviken, Bergen, Norway. He holds a prominent position in biblical studies with a particular focus on the New Testament, intertextuality, and the intersection of biblical scholarship with archaeology and historical context. His educational background includes: 1984: Cand. Theol. from Det teologiske Menighetsfakultet (MF) 1997: Master in Missiology from Fuller Theological Seminary - School of World Mission 2005: Dr. Theol. in New Testament from Det teologiske Menighetsfakultet (MF) Professor Waaler's primary research interests center on New Testament studies, particularly intertextuality and re-contextualization in First Corinthians and the Gospel of Matthew. His work bridges biblical scholarship with archaeological evidence, especially regarding Hebrew inscriptions from sites like Ketef Hinnom and Khirbet Qeiyafa. He has made significant contributions to understanding Pauline theology, particularly how Paul reinterprets Old Testament texts in his writings. His secondary expertise lies in applied Jewish studies, history, archaeology, and paleography related to the Levant. This interdisciplinary approach allows him to examine biblical texts within their historical and cultural contexts, providing fresh insights into early Christian interpretation of Jewish scripture. Waaler's scholarly output demonstrates a consistent focus on how New Testament authors, particularly Paul, engage with and reinterpret earlier biblical texts. His work spans from detailed analysis of specific passages like the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4 as reinterpreted in 1 Corinthians, to broader studies of intertextual methods. More recently, he has collaborated on technical archaeological projects using spectral imaging to analyze ancient inscriptions, showing his willingness to engage with cutting-edge methodologies to illuminate ancient texts. His research bridges the gap between traditional biblical scholarship and archaeological evidence, creating a more robust historical understanding of early Christian interpretation. Professor Waaler has been actively involved in projects examining Matthew's use of the Old Testament, Jewish use of the Old Testament with focus on Qumran and Josephus, inscriptions from Khirbet Qeiyafa, and Pauline Theology. His work demonstrates a sustained commitment to understanding the historical and textual foundations of early Christianity through meticulous analysis of both textual and archaeological evidence.
James Davila is a Professor of Early Jewish Studies at the School of Divinity, University of St Andrews, UK. His work focuses on ancient Jewish and Christian religious texts, with particular expertise in the Dead Sea Scrolls, Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, and late antique theological developments. Research Focus: Interdisciplinary studies of Second Temple literature Specialization: Merkavah mysticism, scriptural exegesis, and ritual studies His research bridges the Jewish and Christian scriptural traditions, examining how ancient texts like 4 Ezra and Hekhalot literature influenced early religious thought. Current projects include analysis of ritual practices in gnostic and mystical traditions. Selected publications highlight his contributions to understanding non-canonical scriptures (2013-2014), including critical editions and studies of ritual frameworks in ancient Jewish mysticism. Professional Networks: Society of Biblical Literature, British New Testament Association Academic Leadership: Principal Investigator for British Academy and Leverhulme Trust projects Contact: jrd4@st-andrews.ac.uk
Jeffrey Shoulson is Professor of English at Brandeis University, serving concurrently as Vice Provost for Undergraduate Affairs and Dean of Undergraduate Studies. His academic career spans roles at the University of Connecticut, Middlebury College, and University of Pennsylvania. Ph.D., Yale University M.Phil., University of Cambridge B.A., Princeton University Specializing in early modern literature and culture, Shoulson's research examines Jewish-Christian intellectual encounters (16th-17th centuries), Bible translation history, and religious cultural intersections. His work bridges literary analysis with historical research on cultural intermediaries. Recent publications analyze early modern moral frameworks (2025), Renaissance global networks (2019), and comparative inquisitorial practices (2023). Articles demonstrate expertise spanning religious ritual (2022), diasporic identity (2017), and Hebraic influence on English literature (2015). Doris and Simon Konover Chair of Judaic Studies (2012-2017) Ruth and Lillian Marino Chair (2014) Salo W. Baron Prize (2002) Fulbright Fellowship (1989-1990) Shoulson's administrative leadership includes directing undergraduate studies while maintaining active research. He has held prestigious fellowships at the Katz Center for Judaic Studies and Fulbright programs.
Prof. David M. Moffitt is a Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at the University of St Andrews' School of Divinity. He previously taught at Duke Divinity School and Campbell University Divinity School. His research focuses on early Christian understandings of Jesus in relation to Jewish scripture and practices, particularly through the lens of the Epistle to the Hebrews. He examines how Hebrews employs high-priestly and sacrificial imagery to frame Christology and soteriology, linking Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension to Yom Kippur rituals. Moffitt’s work includes influential books like Atonement and the Logic of Resurrection in the Epistle to the Hebrews and Rethinking the Atonement , which explore atonement theology and its broader implications. Teaching responsibilities include courses on early Christian texts, the Gospel of Matthew, and Hebrews. He has supervised numerous PhD students and received prestigious awards such as the Manfred Lautenschläger Award for Theological Promise (2013) and a Fulbright Scholarship (Germany, 2006–2007). His research has been published in leading journals like Journal of Biblical Literature and New Testament Studies . Moffitt also contributes to academic activities, including editorial roles and invited lectures on Hebrews and early Christian theology. His research extends beyond Hebrews to include studies on sacrifice in ancient contexts and the theological impact of Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. He collaborates with institutions like the British Academy on projects involving historical artifacts, such as Ravenna mosaics depicting sacrifice.
Stephanie Smith Matthews is a Full-Time Associate Professor of Old Testament at Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU). She holds a PhD in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Israel from Vanderbilt University, an M.T.S. in Biblical Studies from University of Notre Dame, and dual B.A. degrees in Biblical Studies & Spanish from Olivet Nazarene University. Specializes in Hebrew Bible, Gender Studies, and Theological Ethics Focuses on reproductive health narratives, prophetic imagination, and justice themes Active in Society of Biblical Literature and Wesleyan Theological Society Her research connects ancient texts with modern bioethical concerns through interdisciplinary approaches. Publications span topics from maternal pain in Genesis to Wesleyan theological applications. 2024 presentations on ancient pain narratives and AuDHD preaching 2020-2024 grants and fellowships support her theological scholarship Notable contributions include co-edited textbooks and critical analyses of gender dynamics in biblical contexts.
Armin D. Baum is Professor of New Testament at the Freie Theologische Hochschule (FTH) Giessen (since 2010) and has additionally served as Prorector for Research since 2016. He is also Adjunct Professor in the doctoral programme of the Evangelical Theological Faculty, Leuven (Belgium) and was Visiting Professor at the Theological University Kampen (Netherlands) from 2012-2017. Education 1993 – Dr. theol., Theological University Kampen, Netherlands 1990 – Drs. theol., Theological University Kampen, Netherlands 1989 – M.Div., Freie Theologische Akademie, Giessen, Germany 1984 – Abitur, Elsa Brändström-Schule Hannover, Germany Research Focus Baum’s scholarship centres on the historical reliability of the New Testament writings , the formation of the biblical canon , and literary questions of authorship, anonymity and pseudepigraphy . A second strand of research engages contemporary ethical debates , producing detailed exegetical studies on homosexuality, women in ministry and sexual ethics. His methodological interests include the historical-critical method , the relationship between faith and historical scholarship, and the use of ancient historiographical conventions in the Gospels. Publications & Trends Across more than 120 scholarly works, Baum consistently explores how ancient literary and rhetorical conventions shape the New Testament text. Recent monographs such as Einleitung in das Neue Testament (2017) and edited volumes like Kernthemen neutestamentlicher Theologie (2022) consolidate decades of research on Gospel genre, Pauline authenticity, and canon theology. His 2024 articles extend this trajectory by addressing anonymity in Hebrews and the Catholic Epistles and by offering exegetical foundations for evangelical sexual ethics. Professional Memberships & Awards Society for New Testament Studies (SNTS) Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Institute for Biblical Research (IBR) Tyndale Fellowship (TF) Rhein-Main-Exegesetreffen Coordinator, New Testament Study Group of the Arbeitskreis für evangelikale Theologie (AfeT) Advising & Research Leadership As Dean of Research (2012-2016) and Prorector for Research (2016-), Baum oversees doctoral training at FTH Giessen and mentors candidates in New Testament and canon studies. He has directed externally funded projects on the origins of the New Testament canon and regularly convenes colloquia for doctoral students and international guests.
Dr. Robert Smith Jr. is the Distinguished Professor of Divinity and Dr. Charles T. Carter Baptist Chair of Divinity at Beeson Divinity School, Samford University in Birmingham, AL. He earned his PhD at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and has spoken at over 135 universities, seminaries, and colleges globally. Current academic rank: Professor Department: Christian Preaching Research Interests include passion in preaching, African American preaching history, Christological preaching, and theological frameworks for homiletics. His work bridges academic theology with practical ministry applications. Scientific Awards : 2017 E.K. Bailey Expository Preaching Conference Living Legend 2009 Preaching Book of the Year (Doctrine That Dances) 2008 Preaching Book of the Year (Doctrine That Dances) 1996 Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Findley B. Edge Award for Teaching Excellence Dr. Smith has authored/co-edited multiple books, advised on Christian ministry, and served as a Baptist minister for 20 years at New Mission Missionary Baptist Church. His global teaching engagements span locations including Greece, Turkey, and the Holy Land.
Jennie Grillo is an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame, affiliated with the College of Arts and Letters. She holds a DPhil, MSt, and MA from Oxford University. Her primary research focuses on Christianity and Judaism in antiquity, particularly the Old Testament's interpretation within Christian theology and the history of Israelite religion. Grillo’s work bridges biblical studies, patristic exegesis, and reception history. Key publications include *Daniel After Babylon* (OUP, 2024) and *The Story of Israel in the Book of Qohelet* (OUP, 2012), which won the Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award. Current research explores divine incorporeality in the Hebrew Bible, with interests in wisdom literature, liturgical reception, and early biblical print traditions. Grillo has held fellowships from ACLS, the Louisville Institute, and the National Humanities Center. Her teaching emphasizes Hebrew Bible/Old Testament studies, reflecting her expertise in ancient Near Eastern thought and early Jewish-Christian interpretation.
Dr. Richard Gauvain is a Lecturer at the University of Chester's Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences , based in the Humanities, Cultures and Environment department. He holds a Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies from the University of Glasgow (2002) with specialization in Islamic Studies. His academic career spans universities in the Middle East, Europe, and the UK, encompassing diverse teaching roles in Religious Studies, History, Political Science, and Middle East Studies. Dr. Gauvain's research focuses on Islamic law , Salafism , ritual theory , and Anglican studies , particularly in Middle Eastern contexts. Notable themes include Salafi ritual practices in Egypt, the socio-political dynamics of Islamic reform movements, and the interplay between tradition and modernity in religious discourse. Recent work examines Egyptian Anglican Orthodoxy and UAE national identity narratives . His publications span International Journal for the Study of the Christian Church , Oxford Handbook of Ritual and Worship , and Routledge Handbook of Islamic Ritual , reflecting interdisciplinary engagement with anthropology, theology, and political science. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, but his extensive fieldwork and ethnographic contributions highlight scholarly rigor. Teaching expertise includes research methods and theory across undergraduate and graduate levels. His academic language proficiency includes Arabic (fluent) and Spanish (academic competence).
