“Being Christian First means we can't settle for wholesomeness because only holiness will do.”
About. Pursuing Christian first living.
When my son was born, a nurse asked my wife what she should list as my profession on his birth certificate. My wife answered, "theologian." I have owned that label ever since. Whether in higher education, nonprofit leadership, podcasting, or writing, my goal remains the same: doing faithful theology that builds up the church for the sake of the world."
my story
I became a Christian during my sophomore year of college through the ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ (now CRU). From that moment, I began the long journey of learning to follow Jesus. With the encouragement of family, friends, and mentors who invested in me, I embarked on what my wife and I call “the longest, most expensive discipleship program ever”—twelve years of theological education. Along the way I earned degrees from Moody Theological Seminary, Wheaton College, and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and, more importantly, was mentored by instructors who taught me what it means to live as a faithful disciple of Christ.
My formation didn’t end with a PhD. God continued to surround me with people who challenged me to think and live differently. Over the past two decades, I’ve taught at the collegiate level, served as an academic dean, led a Christian nonprofit, hosted a podcast, and written books—all with the same goal: to challenge and equip God’s people to live faithfully.
My work is not about chasing cultural trends. It is about helping Christians resist distortion and bear faithful witness in every sphere of life. Whether I am speaking, writing, teaching, or consulting, I aim to encourage the church to defy the world and follow Christ.
My formation didn’t end with a PhD. God continued to surround me with people who challenged me to think and live differently. Over the past two decades, I’ve taught at the collegiate level, served as an academic dean, led a Christian nonprofit, hosted a podcast, and written books—all with the same goal: to challenge and equip God’s people to live faithfully.
My work is not about chasing cultural trends. It is about helping Christians resist distortion and bear faithful witness in every sphere of life. Whether I am speaking, writing, teaching, or consulting, I aim to encourage the church to defy the world and follow Christ.
Personal Life
In 1999, I married my high school sweetheart. We have four children (a son and three daughters). I enjoy discussing history and theology with my son, working out with my wife and daughters, and spending time researching and writing on various topics.
Our family attends Skyline Church in O'Fallon, Illinois.
Our family attends Skyline Church in O'Fallon, Illinois.
Professional Accomplishments
In 2012, I completed my PhD in Theological Studies—Old Testament from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. I also earned an MA in Biblical Exegesis from Wheaton College and a Master of Divinity from Moody Theological Seminary.
I currently serve as the President of the D. L. Moody Center and Managing Partner of Useful to God Ministries. As part of my work iwth Useful to God, I am spearheading the development of Verum Seminary, an AI-powered education initiative.
Prior to my work with the D. L. Moody Center, I was a Vice President and Academic Dean at Moody Bible Institute. I've also had the opportunity to serve as an Associate Consultant with Ruffalo Noel Levitz before starting my own consulting practice. You can see more about my credentials in my CV.
Download My CVI currently serve as the President of the D. L. Moody Center and Managing Partner of Useful to God Ministries. As part of my work iwth Useful to God, I am spearheading the development of Verum Seminary, an AI-powered education initiative.
Prior to my work with the D. L. Moody Center, I was a Vice President and Academic Dean at Moody Bible Institute. I've also had the opportunity to serve as an Associate Consultant with Ruffalo Noel Levitz before starting my own consulting practice. You can see more about my credentials in my CV.