College of Theology Blogs

  • Rich Holland 11-27-2023 Abstract: For much of the history of Christian theology, it has been assumed that God exists “outside of” time, in an eternity that contains no temporal sequence or passage of time. Many Christians today accept this traditional atemporal viewpoint without question. When pressed against the biblical descriptions of God, however, the traditionalContinue…

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  • by Brian Koning 10-30-2023 Abstract: The prophet Moses expressed the core of Old Testament theology when he said, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deut. 6:4, ESV). Called the Shema, this is Israel’s fundamental theological view of God, but what does it mean? For Trinitarian Christians, does this oneness ofContinue…

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  • by Daniel S. Diffey 10-03-2023 Abstract: The Bible opens with a picture of a good creation that quickly becomes marked by death and evil due to the actions of Adam and Eve. The first five books of the Bible, called the Pentateuch, represent these same themes of life and death—and good and evil—at important junctures. Continue…

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  • God’s Beautiful Gift of Transition

    By Todd Forrest We finally get settled. Life seems predictable. We have a sense of security in locations, relationships, and rhythms of life. Then, in what seems like a moment, everything is out of balance. The solid foundation of each day, our schedules and our futures are suddenly thrust into a misty unknown. This isContinue…

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  • Finish Well by Cherishing Last Opportunities

    By Dr. Scott Hovater Graduation is around the corner and your life is about to change. You will soon be entering the work force full time or heading off to graduate school. Many of you will get married and start a family. All of you are starting a new chapter in your life. Thanks toContinue…

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  • How Will Others Remember Me?

    By Todd Forrest The title’s question is not one of insecurity, it is a legacy of blessing. As you are closing this chapter of your life as a college student, how you exit makes all the difference in how you will be remembered. What will your current friendships look like a year from now? WhomContinue…

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  • A Purpose Filled Goodbye

    By Dr. Shelly Hogan Hello Senior! The time has finally arrived. After years of classroom lectures, long nights of study, and assignment deadlines, you have almost reached the finish line, you are nearly ready to cross the stage, and you will soon receive your diploma. Your hard work is paying off and you will beContinue…

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  • Sammy Alfaro

    Sammy Alfaro, Ph.D.  Professor of Theology Sammy.Alfaro@gcu.edu  Dr. Alfaro is a Phoenix native of Mexican descent. He received an M.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies (2002) and a Ph.D. in Theology (2008) from Fuller Theological Seminary (Pasadena, CA). He is an ordained bishop (Church of God, Cleveland, TN) and pastor of New Day Church. HeContinue…

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  • Brett Berger

    Brett Berger, Th.M. Director, Barnabas Program Department Chair, B.A. in Christian Ministry Brett.Berger@gcu.edu Brett Berger was born and raised in Arizona.  He completed an M.Div. from Phoenix Seminary and a Th.M. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.  His academic interests include biblical theology, ethics, and spiritual formation.  He and his wife, Audra, have three sons. In additionContinue…

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  • Ryan Brandt

    Ryan Brandt, Ph.D.  Professor of Christian History and Theology  Ryan.Brandt@gcu.edu Dr. Brandt teaches theology, historical theology, and honors Christian worldview for the College of Theology. He has published chapters and journal articles on the beatific vision and theosis in Christian thought, contemplation, spiritual reading (the lectio), theological interpretation, and spiritual formation. He is an editorContinue…

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