AU SOT Professor Attends Discussion with Well-Known Biblical Scholar

Photo: Dr. Kimberly Majeski with N.T. Wright.

In late November, Anderson University School of Theology associate professor of biblical studies Dr. Kimberly Majeski attended a small group session with N.T. Wright, a retired Anglican bishop and a leading New Testament scholar, at a Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) meeting.

SBL is the oldest and largest learned society devoted to the critical investigation of the Bible from a variety of academic disciplines and includes thousands of members. The society offers its members opportunities for mutual support, intellectual growth, and professional development.

Majeski’s writing on the New Testament is delivered differently from many other scholars, though. She shares her insights through a blog. [Visit Majeski’s blog.]

According to Majeski, blogging is somewhat common among biblical scholars, but many have trouble condensing theological thought into a short piece of writing. Majeski, has actively blogged for about three years.

Most of her writing focuses on Pauline studies, — specifically women mentioned in Paul’s letters — and the New Testament. “I try to piece together portraits of these women. I post every week and try to make it relevant for scholars and all people of faith,” said Majeski. “It is an incredible challenge, but that is why I love N.T. Wright.”

Also a Pauline scholar, Wright embraces Majeski’s perspective that people can study the Bible, but they must also be able to preach about their findings. In other words, scholars must present their findings in a way that all people can understand.

Wright’s theological ideas have influenced Majeski’s writing over the years. “The kingdom approach he takes on reading Jesus, and the way he reads Paul through the lens of reconciliation, has tutored me,” said Majeski.

For this reason, Majeski was eager to attend a private session with Wright to discuss his latest work. “For me, it was like sitting down with a rock star,” said Majeski. “We could submit questions and ask anything we wanted. It was just such a surreal moment.”

Associate professor of Christian theology Dr. Gregory Robertson is a colleague of Majeski’s. Robertson is also a member of SBL and attended the meeting with Wright. Familiar with Majeski’s Pauline studies, he sees her work weaved into her own life. “Like Paul, Kimberly strives to be as thoughtful as she can be, for the sake of the church,” said Robertson. “Church is central to her ministry, and she has a strong commitment to women in ministry.”

Majeski hopes to continue her blog for many years to come. She felt honored to represent women bloggers at the private discussion with Wright and gained new inspiration for future writing. “Sometimes you just question your path, but that night helped me to remember why I do what I do,” said Majeski. “It was a moment of affirmation for me. I feel called to be a pastor-scholar.”

Majeski has taught at Anderson University in the School of Theology (SOT) for five years. She received a Masters of Divinity degree in 2003 and a Doctorate of Ministry in 2008. Previously, Majeski attended the AU SOT and held the position of campus pastor. She is also a co-host for the CBH ViewPoint radio ministry of the Church of God.

— Anna Rayis is a senior from Columbus, Ohio, majoring in communication arts. Rayis is an associate with Fifth Street Communications®, writing on behalf of the Anderson University Office of University Communications.

Anderson University is a private Christian university in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America’s top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God (Anderson, Ind.), Anderson University offers more than 65 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business, music, nursing, and theology.