Hello there,
Somehow you have ended up on this blog. However you’ve ended up here, I am glad that you found it and hope that my writing may be of some benefit to you.
As stated in my “About” section, I am currently writing my dissertation at Asbury Theological Seminary, with a focus on Acts 27 and ancient nautical narratives. Prior to this I completed my M.A. in Biblical Literature at Alliance Theological Seminary and a B.A. in History & Religion/Philosophy at St. Joseph’s University. In addition to my studies I serve as the Theologian in Residence for the Great Lakes Conference of the Brethren in Christ and as an Adjunct Instructor of Greek at Asbury Theological Seminary.
One of the many things that I love about my work is being able to dive into the New Testament with its historical, cultural, and literary backgrounds in mind. I believe that an understanding of these backgrounds is vital for properly interpreting (and applying) the teachings of Jesus in our own contexts. Background studies also challenge ideas that are informed by our own culture (and church sub-culture) rather than a careful reading of the texts. It is my hope that this blog might illustrate the benefit that such knowledge can bring for Christian communities of today.
I’ve given this blog the informal name eucharisteō, a transliteration of the Greek verb of thanksgiving. In ancient cultures such as those reflected in the New Testament, thanksgiving was an important response to benevolence from others, and a means of fostering relationships between people of different status. By “naming” the blog after this verb, I remind myself that the ability to engage in theological studies is the end result of the kindness and support of many others in my life: my wife and children, extended family, friends, church, and professors who have all invested in my growth in this field. For all of your prayers, emotional support, and sacrifices, Εὐχαριστῶ (“I give thanks”).
Several types of resources are available on this blog. The “About” page contains some of my biographical info as well as links to my published research. “Anabaptism” is a short introduction for those unfamiliar to the Anabaptist tradition of Christianity, to which I belong. “Blog Posts” contains a catalogue of everything written on this website. “Book Reviews” offers a list of book reviews that I have written, catalogued by topic. Lastly, the “Recommended Resources” page includes lists of recommended bible commentaries, theology books, and other resources that I have found helpful in my own research.
But enough with the introductions. Please explore at your leisure, and happy reading!
Eucharisteō 