Associate Professor of History and Theology

Degrees Earned

• University of California, Irvine, CA, Ph.D. 2012
• Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, M.Div. 2001
• Washington University, St. Louis, MO, M.A. 2001
• University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, B.A. 1996

Research Interests

• Greek and Latin literature; epic; Augustan poetry, especially Ovid; history of literature; ancient history of Greece and Rome; mythology; New Testament

Teaching Interests

• Greek and Latin language and readings; ancient history; mythology; social history; Bible; New Testament readings

Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew

Biography

Scott Ashmon is Associate Provost and oversees the university's Enduring Questions & Ideas curriculum. Scott is also Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew. He has been at CUI since 2007 teaching undergraduate and graduate courses. From 2003-2007, he was Assistant Professor of Religion and Chair of the Religion Department at Concordia College in Bronxville, NY. Prior to that, he served as Assistant Pastor at Christ Lutheran Church in Cincinnati, OH for four years. Scott earned his B.A. from Concordia College in Portland, OR in 1992 and his M.Div. and S.T.M. from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO. He earned his Ph.D. from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in 2010, where he specialized in the Hebrew Bible and the ancient Near East. He has published articles and books on topics related to the Old Testament and Lutheran higher education. He is a member of the Society of Concordia Theological Faculties and a board member of the Association for Core Texts and Courses and its Liberal Arts Institute. Scott and his family. Scott and his family are members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Irvine, CA.

Education

Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Cincinnati, OH, M.Phil., 2007, Ph.D, 2010; Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, S.T.M., 1998, M.Div., 1996; Concordia College, Portland, OR, B.A., 1992

Publications: Peer Reviewed

• The Idea and Practice of a Christian University: A Lutheran Approach. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2015.
• “Higher Education in Light of the Cross.” Dialog: A Journal of Theology 54, no. 1 (2015): 94-104.
• “Learning by Writing about and Discussing Big Questions.” Teaching Theology and Religion, forthcoming in 2015.
• “The Covenantal Function of Biblical Birth Annunciations.” Criswell Theological Review 10, no. 1 (2012): 41-52.
• Birth Annunciations in the Hebrew Bible and Ancient Near East. Lewiston, NY: Edwin Mellen, 2012.
• Ashmon, Scott and Robert Weise. “‘Give Me Children, or I Will Die’: Procreation is God’s Work.” Concordia Journal 24, no. 4 (1998): 337-45.

Professional

• Co-authored with Scott Keith. To Be a Student: Vocation and Leisure in Service to Neighbor. Irvine, CA: New Reformation Publications, 2016.
• Co-authored with Daniel van Voorhis, “Liberty and Rights in Light of the Reformation and Enlightenment Traditions.” Issues in Christian Education 49, no. 3 (Summer 2016).
• “Revisiting the Law-Gospel Paradigm in Light of the Old Testament.” Concordia Pulpit Resources 26, no. 3 (2016): 3-8.
• “Preaching Law and Gospel in the Old Testament.” Lutheran Forum 47, no. 4 (2013): 12-15.
• “The Good Society and the Problem of Evil in Genesis 1-3 and Enuma Elish.” Lutheran Forum 45, no. 3 (2011): 12-14.
• “Samson and Christ, Type and Antitype.” Lutheran Forum 43, no. 3 (2008): 15-17.

Teaching

• History and Literature of the Old Testament (THL 201 and THL 201H)
• Old Testament Book of the Bible (THL 311)
• Old Testament Isagogics (TEXO 507)
• Old Testament Book Option (TEXO 510)
• Guided Readings (THL 590)
• Hebrew 1 (HEB 101)
• Hebrew 2 (HEB 102)
• Readings in the Hebrew Bible (HEB 201)
• Readings in the Torah (HEB 211)
• Readings from the Pericopes (HEB 225)
• Readings in the Prophets and Writings (HEB 321)
• Biblical Aramaic (ARA 301)

Asst. Professor of Library Science

Education

• MLIS - Simmons Graduate School of Library/ Information Science, Boston, MA, 1999

Professor of Biblical Languages/Theology

Concordia University, Irvine, 1983-84 and since 1986.

Education

• University of California at Irvine, M.A., 1993; Ph.D. 2005
• Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, M.Div., 1986
• Christ College Irvine, CA, B.A., 1981

Teaching

• Research: Josephus
• First Century Judea
• The Revelation of John

Publications

Books

• Revelation. Reformation Heritage Bible Commentary. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2012.
• The Sicarii in Josephus's Judean War: Rhetorical Analysis and Historical Observations. Atlanta: Society of Biblical Literature, 2009.

Chapters

• "Flavian Judea." Pages XX-XX in A Companion to the Flavian Age of Imperial Rome. Edited by Andrew Zissos. West Sussex: Wiley-Blackwell, forthcoming.
• "The Means of Grace." Pages 69-78 in Learning at the Foot of the Cross: A Lutheran Vision for Education. Edited by Joel D. Heck and Angus J. L. Menuge. Austin: Concordia University Press, 2011.
• "A Comparison of the Literary Conventions in Judith with the Ancient Greek Novel." Pages 163-171 in Hear the Word of Yahweh. Edited by Dean O. Wenthe, Paul L. Schrieber and Lee A. Maxwell. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2002.

Journals

• "The Sicarii in Acts: A New Perspective." Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 54 (2011): 547-558.
• "The Irony of Masada." The Bible and Interpretation, 2009.

Bible Studies

• End Times. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2001.
• An Introductory Course: Mark. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1998.
• Church Year Bible Studies: Series B – Lent-Easter-Ascension-Pentecost. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 1996.

Associate Professor of Philosophy

Curriculum Vitae

Education

• Florida State University, PhD. 2011
• California State University Long Beach, MA 2006
• Concordia University, Irvine, BA 2001

Research

Area of Specialization

• Philosophy of Science

Areas of Competence

• Philosophy of Biology Epistemology
• Science and Religion
• Logic and Critical Thinking

Teaching Experience

• Florida State University: Instructor - Ethical Issues and Life Choices (Summer 2009)
• Rio Hondo Community College: Instructor - Introduction to Philosophy (Summer 2006; Spring 2006)
• Orange Lutheran High School: Instructor—Full Responsibility - Intertestamental Period and Old Testament Books, Sophomore Level (2001/2002)

Publications

Encyclopedia Article

• "Darwin and the Levels of Selection" with Brian Hollis and Christopher Zarpentine, in The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Darwin and Evolutionary Thought. Edited by Michael Ruse. Cambridge University Press (forthcoming)

Book Review

• Darwin's Gift to Science and Religion by Francisco Ayala, in History and Philosophy of the Life Sciences, 2008, 30: 272-273.

Presentations

• "The Unusual Relationship between Intelligent Design and Evolution; or Are Intelligent Design and Evolutionary Theory Kissing Cousins?" International Society for the History, Philosophy, and Social Studies of Biology: Brisbane, AUS; July 2009.
• "Why Science and Spirituality Need Each Other: Toward a Theory of Dialogue" Zygon Student Symposium on Science and Religion: Chicago, IL; May 2009.
• "Keeping It in the Family: An Exploration of the Relationship Between Intelligent Design and Evolution" Darwin's Legacy: Evolution's Impact on Science and Culture, UNCW; March 2009.
• "Preliminary Remarks Towards a Complementary Model of Causation" Western Social Sciences Association: Denver, CO; April 2008.
• "Modern Reflections on the Mind/Brain Problem" Western Social Sciences Association: Phoenix, AZ; April 2006.
• "The Mind/Body Problem Revisited: A New Look at the Ontological Problem" with Paul Tang. Western Social Sciences Association: Albuquerque, NM April 2005.
• "A Goodmanian Interpretation of the Verifiability Criterion: Paradox and Resurrection" Western Social Sciences Association: Salt Lake City, UT April 2004.

Awards and Honors

Fellowship

• Integrated Training in Biology and Science (ITBaS), funded by the National Science Foundation through a grant from the History and Philosophy of Science, Engineering, and Technology Program (2009/2010).

Travel Awards

• Student Travel Grants (2009, 2008)

Honors

• Friends of Philosophy Scholarship for graduate studies in Philosophy (2004, 2003). Awarded by the Department of Philosophy, California State University, Long Beach.
• Phi Kappa Phi

Director of DCE program

Biography

Hi! I'm Rebecca Duport and I'm blessed to be called to serve my alma mater Concordia Irvine as an Assistant Professor and Director to the DCE Program of Christ College. Upon graduation from CUI in 1998, I've served Lutheran Churches as a Director of Christian Education (DCE) throughout the country (Idaho, Kentucky, Arkansas, Florida) in life-span education roles working with Children, Youth, Family, Older Adults. I cherish the relationships that God has allowed me the privilege to be a part of as a full-time DCE in His church for 16 years before coming to Concordia as a Professor in 2014. My service to the body of Christ also includes speaking at youth gatherings, conferences and leading training events for Family Friendly Partner's Network (FFPN). My husband Kyle and I enjoy spending time with our four boys and their events in scouting, sports and school.

Education

Concordia University, Seward, Nebraska, M.S. 2010 Concordia University, Irvine, California, B.A. 1998

Assistant Professor of Theology

Dr. Elliott received his Ph.D. and M. Phil. from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and is the lead professor of Hebrew for Concordia University Irvine's Christ College. Dr. Elliott published “The Israel of God in the Sermon: Connecting Old Testament Texts to New Testament People” in Feasting in a Famine of the Word in 2016 and is preparing a commentary on the prophet Habakkuk.

Education

• Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, M.Phil., 2013; Ph.D., 2018
• Concordia Seminary – St. Louis, M.Div., 2009
• Concordia University – River Forest, B.A., 2003

Professional Experience

• Concordia University Irvine, Assistant Professor, 2016-present
• St. John Lutheran Church, Assistant Pastor, 2009-2016
• Hebrew Union College/Xavier University/University of Dayton, Adjunct Professor, 2010-2016

Publications Completed

• “The Israel of God in the Sermon: Connecting Old Testament Texts to New Testament People” in Feasting in a Famine of the Word: Lutheran Preaching in the Twenty-First Century, 2016.

Forthcoming

• “Community and Closure: The Church in the Individual Complaint Psalms” in The Church as Fullness in All Things: Recasting Lutheran Ecclesiology in an Ecumenical Context, expected 2018.
• Ambrose of Milan and His Use of Philo of Alexandria in His Letters on the Hexaemeron, Dissertation.
• Habakkuk, Concordia Commentary, expected 2022.

Teaching/Research Interests

• Old Testament/Prophetic Literature
• Early Jewish and Christian Exegesis
• Second Temple Judaism
• Northwest Semitic Languages

Professor of Theology

Reverend Eschelbach was a parish pastor for 15 years before teaching at Concordia University Chicago (14 years) and now Concordia University Irvine. The care of souls and love of truth are evident in his eagerness to help others find the answers they seek, especially answers to the most difficult questions. Professor Eschelbach invests himself in his students as he shows them how to search for the truth among the various witnesses God has provided, especially in the Bible but also in nature, reason, and common human experience. You may find evidence of Dr. Eschelbach’s work in his publications, public speaking, and recognition for exemplary teaching. Besides teaching and studies, Michael Eschelbach enjoys sailing, biking along Newport beach, and visiting the redwoods.

Experience

Administrative

• Provide leadership and inspiration to various committees in the university setting, including faculty search committees, faculty seminar, faculty growth and development, student life policies, liberal arts culture, and student retention task force. Within each setting, provide exploration and development of responsive, innovative, and effective programming.

Writing (see also “publications” below)

• In the process of writing essays on; the philosophy of religion, the nature of human responsibility in society, and the problem of evil.
• Produced strategic curriculum and integrated, multi-media study guides including,
  • 1 year series for preschool & kindergarten age children.
  • 4 year series taking grades 1-4.
  • 3 year catechetical instruction (grades 5-7) which includes liturgical studies, Luther’s Small Catechism, and a Bible study guide that promotes age-appropriate, in depth discussion.
• Developed a 5 year study series for high school youth which fosters the sense of community among students, promotes informed interaction of students with their peers in school, and enhances the student's own cognitive abilities.

Classroom Instruction

• Professor of New Testament Studies, Greek, the Philosophy of Religion, World Religions, Gender, and related religious studies including ethics and social issues.
• On-line graduate courses for MAR students on the Parables of Jesus and General Epistles.
• Recruited by directors of Honors Program to provide honors level instruction in New Testament Studies and the History of Christian Biography.
• Provide instruction and mentoring for graduate (MAR), directed, and correspondence studies.
• Lecture and facilitate enthusiastic exploration of theological topics in Youth Encounter/Conference settings.
• Lecture and direct discussion on biblical books, theology, and related current events to adults each Sunday morning.
• Provide stimulating and highly interactive study sessions for juniors and seniors in High School.

Study Tours

• 2014 – London and Edinburgh. Preparing for this fourth study tour in June.
• 2012 – France. Assisted with Choir/study tour of France, providing general historical and theological background.
• 2010 – Egypt. Taught a course on Egyptology and the significance of Egypt in the Bible while touring Egypt and the lower Sinai peninsula over 12 days
• 2008 – Italy. Taught a course on the Council of Trent in comparison with orthodox biblical theology as presented by Martin Chemnitz in his examination of the same. This course on campus was followed by 14 days touring in Italy.
• 2006 – Turkey/Greece. Taught a course on the travels and places where the apostle Paul taught while touring those locations with students over 16 days.

Campus Activities

• 2000 – present. Provide several extra-curricular opportunities for students to interact with theological issues, current events and each other. “Cinema Sophia” offers a movie each week for viewing. The film is followed by analysis and discussion, focused on the relationship between the intent of the film and philosophical/theological principles. “Great Books Conversation” is a lunch time group that considers excerpts from the world’s greatest literature. “Concordians for Concord among Concordians” meets each week over lunch to allow students to pursue questions they have of any nature, but particularly those which generate tension between various church workers and between those who claim a Christian belief system. “Apologetics Exercise” is a once a semester meeting of two student teams who oppose each other on a high profile issue. Practice in research, public speaking, but most of all, evangelical apologetic method is provided. The whole campus is invited to participate and attend.
• 1985 - 1987 Offered highly interactive biblical studies and lead discussions of the same for college students at Eastern Montana University and Rocky Mountain College in Billings, Montana.
• 1983 - 1984 Generated commentary, illustrations, and lead an interactive workshop on the book of Revelation for faculty and students of Gallaudette University.

Professional Employment

• 2014 – present Professor of New Testament, Concordia University Irvine, California.
• 2000 – 2014. Professor of New Testaments Studies, Greek, Philosophy of Religion, and World Religions
  Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, Illinois
• 1988 – 2000, Pastor, Peace Lutheran Church, Sandusky, MI
• 1985 - 1988, Pastor, Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Billings, Montana
• 1973 - 1981, Vice President of Production, Ann Arbor Craftsmen, Inc., Ann Arbor, Michigan

Education

• 1979 B.S. - Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, Michigan
• 1985 M.Div. - Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana
• 1999 Ph.D. - Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Awards

• Concordia University Arts and Sciences Effective Teaching/Learning Award, 2002.
• Concordia University Student Association Professor of the Year, 2000-2001, 2001-2002, 2004-2005
• American Bible Society Scholarly “Studies in Greek Achievement Award” conferred by Concordia Theological Seminary, 1985

Professional Activities – Public Speaking, Seminars, Lectures

• “Marriage Matters” Seminar at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Normal Illinois, September 20, 2014.
• Key note speaker for the 2013 Beautiful Feet Conference, “How to Fill Big Shoes With the Feet You Have,” November 13, 2013.
• “Gender Issues in Our Culture and Congregations,” Indiana District Pastor’s Conference, Merrillville, Indiana, October, 2013.
• “Islam and Apologetics,” Seminar at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvidere, Illinois, September, 2013.
• “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as paradigm of Christianity,” KFUO interview based on Cinema Sophia Study, September, 2013.
• “You Got to Move it Move it: the Significance of Acts for Contemporary Christians,” Seminar at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Belvedere, Illinois, May 18, 2013.
• “Apocalypse How? Understanding Revelation as the original readers would have” Seminar at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Alexandria, Virginia, April 6, 2013.
• “Lazarus and the Rich Man,” radio interview, “Studio A with Roland Lettner,” KFUO radio, June 10, 2011.
• “Accent on Apologetics: Paul’s Letter to the Galatians as Foundation and Springboard for Effectively Engaging Modern Society through Lutheran Schools.” LEA Convocation, Cincinnati, Ohio, April 2011.
• “The Twilight of Education: Does Lutheranism Have a Stake in the Heart?” Association of Lutheran College Faculties annual conference, Irvine, California, October 1-3, 2010.
• “Give Unto Caesar the Things that Are Caesar,” radio interview, “Studio A with Roland Lettner,” KFUO radio, September 1, 2010.
• “Adoption” radio interview, “Studio A with Roland Lettner” KFUO radio, June 12, 2010.
• “Baptism and the Holy Spirit” radio interview, “Studio A with Roland Lettner” KFUO radio, June 1, 2010.
• “’Virtue’ in 2 Peter 1:5” radio interview, “Studio A with Roland Lettner” KFUO radio, February 10, 2010.
• “Swimming Upstream: How to Advocate for the Adversarial” Apologetics Seminar. Bethel Lutheran Church, Clearwater Florida. March 2009.
• “Marriage Matters: Weddings, Wars, and Winning Ways.” Imperial Nebraska annual conference, October, 2008.
• “Mystery in the Water and Identity in the Body and Blood.” LCMS National Youth Gathering, Orlando Florida, August 2007.
• “Sexual Brokenness: ‘Ships Passing in the Night? Biblical Means of Navigating Divorce and Re-marriage’” The Cranach Institute, Fort Wayne, Indiana, September 2006.
• “Marriage Matters: From Bride of Christ to Bride of Frankenstein?” Central Illinois District Pastor’s Conference, Springfield, Illinois, October 2005.
• “Media as Motivation” Lutheran Education Association Convocation, Indianapolis, Indiana, April 5, 2005.
• “The Gospel as ‘Counter Intelligence’” Concordia University System Theologians Conference, Dallas, Texas, March 5, 2005.
• “The Matrix: How to use media and art to make theology live in the hearts and minds of young people” Northern Illinois District, LCMS Youth Conference, Lyle, Illinois, November 7-9, 2004.
• “Wine, Women and Song” a radical explanation for the conflict and a simple way forward in issues of fellowship, gender issues, and worship, to be presented at Lutheran Student Fellowship Seminar, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, October 25, 2003.
• “The Matrix: Media as the Pulse of Religious Thinking and Invitation to Dialog” In His Face national youth gathering, Dallas, Texas, July 29-31, 2003.
• “An Inspired Approach to Catechism and Confirmation,” presented at the SELC District pastor’s conference, Alsip, Illinois, February 4, 2003.
• “Wine, Women, Song; a Study of 1 Corinthians 10,11,” presented at the Concordia Deaconess Conference, April 16, 2002.
• “Not On My Watch! An Inspired Approach to Catechism/Confirmation Instruction,” Lutheran Education Association national convocation, Minneapolis, Minnesota, April 18-20, 2002.
• “Predestination, Who does the Choosing?” presented at three sections of the National Youth Congress gathering, St. Charles Illinois, March 16, 2002.
• “Marriage Matters; Biblical Perspectives that Make All the Difference in Marriage Relationships,” presented at Northern Illinois District Pastor’s Conference, October 2001.
• “I Can’t Hear Myself Preach for the Snoring,” a study of hermeneutics which yields captivating engagement through public speaking, including preaching, presented at the Institute for Church Studies, Northern Illinois District, LCMS, September 2001.
• “Has David Foiled Joab? A Literary Study of the Importance of Joab’s Character in Relation to David,” presented in the Arts & Sciences Research and Faculty Development Series, Concordia University, River Forest, March 15, 2001.
• “Linguistic Approaches to Understanding the Controlling Ideas in 1 Peter,” presented at the Concordia Theological Seminary Symposium, January 2000.
• “Biblical Catechesis: How to Convey God’s Word in a Meaningful and Reasonable Way,” presented at several workshops to clergy and educators in Taiwan and provided as a one week intensive course for credit at China Lutheran Seminary, Hsinchu, Taiwan, 1993.
• “An Interpreter’s Approach to Research and Meaningful Translation of Biblical Words & Concepts,” presented during five days at the Interpreter’s Training Institute, Concordia Theological Seminary, 1985.

Publications

• Forth coming (May 2015) New Testament Questions and Answers (CPH).
• April 2015, “Is the Bible True?” Lutheran Hour Ministries Apologetics Web-resource.
• Fall 2013, Proof Edition, Apocalypse – How? Understanding the Revelation to St. John by comparison of the Greek text, extreme literal translation, dynamic equivalent translation, and notes. Amazon; CreateSpace (April 2015).
• Fall 2012, And the Storms Came. Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 2012.
• Summer 2010, notes on Malachi and Philippians, The Lutheran Study Bible, St. Louis: Concordia, 2009.
• Summer 2009, LEA eMonograph Series, “Why Apologize? Engaging challenges to the faith for educators in Lutheran ministries.”
• Spring 2009, Testamentum Imperium (2009): Eternal Security/Perseverance of the Saints, Vol. 2. “Election in Ephesians 1: Individual or Corporate?” and “Hagios in Pauline Letters: The Extrinsic Source of Christian Holiness.”
• Fall 2008 Concordia Pulpit Resources. Mark 10:32-45 “A Case of Mistaken Identity” and Philippians 2:5-11 “How Could You Stoop So Low?” St. Louis: Concordia.
• Study Notes for New Testament Introduction. Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 2007.
• Marriage and the Counsel of God. Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 2007.
• Called to be God’s People: An Introduction to the Old Testament. Eugene: Wipf and Stock, 2006.
• January 2006, Concordia Theological Quarterly, “Walk This Way: a Theme from Proverbs Reflected and Extended in Paul’s Letters.” Vol. 70:1, 43-62.
• Has Joab Foiled David? A Literary Study of the Importance of Joab’s Character in Relation to David. Peter Lang publishers, 2005.
• Fall 2004, Andrews University Seminary Studies, “Song of Songs: Increasing Appreciation of and Restraint in Matters of Love” Vol. 42, No.2, 305-324.
• Fall 2004, Teachers Interaction, “Classroom Environment – A Winnable War” (Concordia Publishing House).
• Fall 2003, LifeLight, “James & Jude,” Enrichment Magazine/Study Guide, (Concordia Publishing House).
• Summer 2001, Lutheran Education, “The Proper Care and Feeding of Catechumens, p261-269.
• 1996, The Everyday Study Bible, one page essays,
  • “Alcohol, ”
  • “Capital Punishment,”
  • “Celibacy,”
  • “Sabbath”

Book Reviews

• Song of Songs by Cheryl Exum in JETS vol. 50, No. 2, June 2007.
• Inspiration and Incarnation: Evangelicals and the Problem of the Old Testament by Peter Enns in JETS vol. 48, No. 4, December 2005.

Reports

• Provided a critical analysis of the New Testaments meaning and use of “nomos” and offered comprehensive recommendations for its translation in the God’s Word to the Nations Bible translation.

Associate Professor of Theology

Director, Cross-cultural Ministry Center

Curriculum Vitae

Education

• PhD Theology, University of Pretoria, South Africa, 2015
• MS Education, Capella University, Minneapolis, MN, 2008
• MDiv, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, 2000
• BA, Concordia College, Seward, NE, 1995

Professional Experience

• Associate Professor of Theology, Concordia University Irvine, 2016-present
• Assistant Professor of Theology, Concordia University Irvine, 2012-2016
• Director of the Cross-cultural Ministry Center, Concordia University Irvine, 2012-present
• Lecturer, Lutheran Theological Seminary, Pretoria, South Africa, 2009-2012
• Theological Educator, LCMS, Francophone Africa, 2009-2012
• Director, Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, West Africa, 2001-2007
• Academic Dean, Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, West Africa, 2007-2009
• President, Mission Luthérienne, Dapaong, Togo, West Africa, 2001-2009
• Missionary, LCMS, Togo (1998-2009) & South Africa (2009-2012)

Select Peer Reviewed Publications

• Johann Gerhard (1582-1637) and the Conceptualization of Theologia at the Threshold of the “Age of Orthodoxy”: The Making of the Theologian. Göttingen: Edition Ruprecht, 2018.
• “The Doctrine of Justification as the ‘Unifying Center’ of Theology and Missions.” In “Die einigende Mitte”. Theologie in konfessioneller und ökumenischer Verantwortung, edited by Christoph Barnbrock & Gilberto da Silva, 554-568. Göttingen: Edition Ruprecht, 2018.
• “The Giant That Couldn’t Sleep: An Active Theology of Missions as Derived from the Lutheran Confessions.” Lutheran Mission Matters 25, no. 2 (2017): 229-242.
• “The Dubious History of ‘Contextualization’ and the Cautious Case for its Continued Use.” Lutheran Mission Matters 25, no. 1 (2017): 49-69.
• “The Dual Nature of Evangelism in the Early Church.” Concordia Journal 42, no. 4 (2016): 305-321.
• “Why Lutheran Education in Africa?” Missio Apostolica 23, no. 2 (2015): 206-210.
• “A Historical and Sociocultural Analysis of Distance Education in the United States with Implications for Distance Theological Education in Africa.” Journal of Adult Theological Education 7, no. 1 (2010): 26-43.
• “Reflections of a New Missionary.” Missio Apostolica (Nov. 2000): 80-87.

Select Professional Publications

• “Mission (Un)expected. Mission (Im)possible.” Sermon study on Is. 66:18-23 (Pentecost 11). Concordia Pulpit Resources 29, part 3, series C (2019): 39-42.
• “Why Lutheran Education in Africa?” Lutherans Engage the World 1, no. 1 (2012): 2-4.
• “Commentary: Remembering Pastor Wilbert Kreiss.” Reporter Online (Nov 3, 2011).
• “African Seminary Celebrates Four Graduates, 13 Vicars.” Online Reporter (August 5, 2011).
• “La Préparation du Sermon.” Course Manual, Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, 2007
• “La Parole Vivante: Un Survol des Livres Bibliques du Daniel à l’Apocalypse.” Course Manual, Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, 2006.

Book Reviews

• Konfession, Politik, und Gelehrsamkeit. Der Jenaer Theologe Johann Gerhard (1582-1637) im Kontext seiner Zeit, edited by Markus Friedrich, Sascha Salatowsky, & Luise Schorn-Schütte, in Lutheran Quarterly 32, no. 1 (2018): 110-112.

Public Speaking, Seminars, Lectures

• “Ethnic Specific or Multi-Ethnic?” presented at the Multicultural Gathering, Concordia University Irvine, Irvine, CA, Nov 27, 2018.
• “Exploring the Intersect Between Culture and Online Education: Observations and Questions,” paper presented at the annual conference of the Association of Lutheran College Faculties, Concordia University, St. Paul, MN, Sept. 21-22, 2018.
• “How the Doctrine of Justification Can Bring Theology and Missions Back Together Again,” paper presented at the Theological Symposium, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, Sept. 2017.
• “Seven Theses: A Call for a Multi-Cultural ‘Reformation’ in the Lutheran Church,” presented at the annual retreat of the Oromo Evangelical Lutheran Mission Society, Las Vegas, CA, June 30, 2017 and at Concordia University Irvine, CA, Nov. 28, 2017.
• “The ‘Age of Orthodoxy’ as a Time of Personal Spirituality and Pastoral Care: The Case of Johann Gerhard,” Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Dana Point, April 23, 2017.
• “Distance Education, Culture, and Theological Formation: Observations and Questions,” paper presented at the LCMS Theologians’ Conference, Irvine, CA, May 25, 2016.
• “God’s Word as a Gift of Hope,” presented at the LCMS Pastors’ Conference of the Pacific Southwest District, Palm Springs, CA, Sept. 27, 2012.
• “Pastoral Theology of Marriage” two-day seminar at the international gathering of pastors of the Union of Lutheran Churches in Africa, Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, March 2007.
• “Sermon Preparation” seminar at the pastoral conference of the Eglise Luthérienne du Togo, Sadori, Togo, March 2006.
• “Christ-centered Hermeneutic” two-day seminar at the pastoral conference of the Eglise Luthérienne du Togo, Sadori, Togo, March 2005.
• “The Pastor’s Response to Suffering” seminar given to students of the Centre Luthérien d’Etudes Théologiques, Dapaong, Togo, March 2004.
• “Created and Equipped to Serve God: The Practice of Christian Giving” two-day seminar at the pastoral conference of the Eglise Luthérienne du Togo, Sadori, Togo, Nov 2003.

Teaching & Research Interests

• Church History
• Seventeenth Century Lutheran theology & theologians (emphasis: Johann Gerhard)
• Intersect between culture, theology, and theological education
• Missionary pastoral education
• Missiology, Missional theology & practice
• Church Planting

Associate Dean, Christ College

Associate Professor of Philosophy, Theology and Ethics

Education

• Ph.D. St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO
• M.Div. Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO
• B.A. Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN

Professional Experience

• Concordia University Irvine: Associate Professor, 2015 - Present
• Concordia University Irvine: Assistant Professor, 2011 - 2015
• Zion Lutheran Church, Bolivar, MO: Pastor, 2003 - 2011

Teaching & Research Interests

• Ethics
• Political Philosophy
• Nineteenth-century German Philosophy
• Power and Persuasion in the Church

Selected Publications

Translations

• Editor, Pastoral Theology, by C. F. W. Walther. Translated by Christian Tiews (St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2017)
• “C. F. W. Walther’s Concept of Missions,” by Volker Stolle. In Missio Apostolica 10, no. 1 (May 2002): 38-40.
• “Kant’s Idea of Peace and the Philosophic Concept of a World Republic,” by Matthias Lutz-Bachmann. In Perpetual Peace: Essays on Kant’s Cosmopolitan Ideal, ed. James Bohman and Matthias Lutz-Bachmann, 59-77. Cambridge: MIT Press, 1997.

Miscellaneous

• “To Be Known as I Know Myself: Identity, Politics and the Gospel.” Issues in Christian Education 48, no. 3 (Summer 2015). http://issues.cune.edu/the-lgbt-disputes-teaching-and-practice-in-the-church-2/the-lgbt-disputes-teaching-and-practice-in-the-church/
• “What Is the Theology of the Cross.” Sidebar. LEA Shaping the Future (Summer 2014). http://stf.lea.org/summer2014/feat1schumacher.html.
• “What the Gospel Does: Three Ways of Applying the Gospel Concretely.” Concordia Journal 36, no. 1 (Winter 2010): 21-31.
• “Worship and the Catechism.” Worship Concord Journal 2, no. 5 (May 2010). At worshipconcordjournal.wordpress.com/2010/05/01/worship-and-the-catechism/

Bible Studies

• The Parables Leaders Guide. Edited by Brian Chisamore. LifeLight Bible Study series. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2013.
• 1 and 2 Kings Leaders Guide (lectures only). Edited by Brian Chisamore. LifeLight Bible Study series. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2013.
• Heaven and Hell. Edited by Brian Chisamore. LifeLight Bible Study series. Concordia Publishing House, 2012.
• 1, 2, 3 John Leaders Guide. Edited by Brian Chisamore. LifeLight Bible Study series. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2012.

Professor of Philosophy and Theology

Education

• DPhil Oxford University, England, 2000
• B.A. Concordia University, Irvine

Professional Experience

• Union College, KY: Assistant Professor, 2001-2003
• Colorado Christian University: Associate Professor of Theology and Philosophy, Dean of Theology, 2003-2008
• Trinity Lutheran College: Academic Dean and Professor of Theology and Philosophy, 2008-2012
• Concordia University Irvine: Associate Professor, 2012 – 2016, Professor, 2016 –
• Co-host, Virtue in the Wasteland Podcast, 2013-

Teaching & Research Interests

• Reformation and Early Modern Thought
• The History of Lutheran Education in America
• Virtue Ethics and Christian Sexuality
• Religion and Popular Culture

Recent Publications

• Sexy: The Quest for Erotic Virtue in Perplexing Times (NRP, 2017).
• Associate Ed., Encyclopedia of Martin Luther and the Reformation (Rowman & Littlefield, 2017).
• “Scientology,” in The Christian Difference (CPH, 2017).
• With Russell Dawn, “A Genealogy of Lutheran Higher Education,” in The Idea and Practice of a Christian University: A Lutheran Approach, Scott Ashmon ed. (CPH, 2015).
• “How We Know,” in Learning at the Foot of the Cross: A Lutheran Vision for Education, Angus Menuge and Joel Heck eds. (Concordia University Press, 2012).
• “Epistemology of the Cross: A Lutheran Response to Philosophical Theisms,” in Theologia et Apologia: Essays in Reformation Theology and its Defense Presented to Rod Rosenbladt, Adam Francisco, Korey Maas, and Steven Mueller eds. (Wipf & Stock, 2007).
• Faith, Reason, and Revelation in Theodore Beza (1519-1605) (Oxford University Press, 2003).

Professor of Theology

Curriculum Vitae

Hi! My name is Mike Middendorf, a Professor of Theology. I am privileged to teach a wide of variety of courses related to the Bible (e.g. Old and New Testament, Greek and Hebrew, and many more!). It is a great opportunity to lead classes on three levels at one University! My favorite group to work with is our undergraduate students, but I also get to teach courses in the Master of Arts program and to seminarians studying here for many types of ethnic ministry. My home state is Minnesota and my college is a sister school of Concordia - Irvine, located in St. Paul, MN. After completing my pastor’s degree and a doctorate at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, I was a parish pastor at Concordia Lutheran Church in Jamestown, ND. Then I served as professor for 9 years at another sister Concordia, in Austin, TX, before coming to Irvine. Is that enough Concordia’s for you? Well, yet another Concordia, Concordia Publishing House, asked me to write a two-volume commentary on the book of Romans for their Concordia Commentary series. Volume one was published in 2013; volume two in 2016. I also co-authored the New Testament textbook used here and at other Concordias titled, Called by the Gospel. In addition to digging into the Bible, I have worked on an archaeology dig three summers at Hippos on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel. After all those Concordias, I should point out that “Concordia” is from two Latin words which literally mean “with heart.” That is one phrase which I strive to have as a characteristic of my teaching ministry. “Concordia” is also often translated as “harmony.” Since coming to Concordia in 2001, I have really found that to be an outstanding description of the Christian community here.

Education

• Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, M.Div., 1987; S.T.M., 1989; Ph.D., 1990
• Concordia College, St. Paul, MN, B.A., 1981

Professional Experience

• Concordia University, Irvine, CA since 2001
• Concordia University, Austin, TX, 1992-2000

Recent Achievements

• Author of the 2-volume commentary on Romans in the Concordia Commentary series (2013, 2016)
• Co-author of Called by the Gospel, a university-level New Testament introduction (2007)
• Dissertation on Romans 7, The "I" in the Storm, published by Concordia Publishing House (1997)

Dean of Christ College, Professor of Theology

Rev. Dr. Steven P. Mueller earned his doctorate from Durham University in England, completing his dissertation on The Christology of C. S. Lewis: A Lutheran's Evaluation. A graduate of Christ College, Irvine, Dr. Mueller completed his Master's of Divinity and Master’s of Sacred Theology from Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft Wayne, IN. Following his ordination, he accepted a call to Concordia University Irvine in 1995. A published author and hymn writer, Dr. Mueller also serves as an Assistant Pastor for Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church of Irvine.

Curriculum Vitae

Education

• Ph.D. Durham University (England)
• S.T.M. Concordia Theological Seminary
• M.Div. Concordia Theological Seminary
• B.A. Christ College Irvine

Professional Experience

• Concordia University since 1995
• Asst. Pastor, Redeemer Lutheran Church, Sioux City, Iowa 1991-1995
• Teaching Assistant, Concordia Theological Seminary & Director of Choral and Handbell Music, Bethany Lutheran Church, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, 1990-1991

Teaching & Research Interests

• Systematic Theology: Christian Doctrine, Lutheran Confessions
• World Religions
• Worship
• C.S. Lewis

Selected Publications

• The Lutheran Study Bible. St. Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2010. (Contributor and Associate Editor).
• Called to Believe, Teach, and Confess: An Introduction to Doctrinal Theology. Wipf and Stock, 2005. (author/editor).
• Not a Tame God: Christ in the Writings of C. S. Lewis. Concordia Publishing House, 2002.
• Theologia et Apologia: Essays in Reformation Theology and its Defense, Wipf and Stock, 2007. (contributor and co-editor)
• Called to Believe: A Brief Introduction to Christian Doctrine. Wipf and Stock, 2006 (author/editor)
• “Christ the Word of God Incarnate.” Hymn Text. Lutheran Service Book, 2006.
• “The Lion, the Witch, and the Savior.” The Lutheran Witness, December 2005.
• “Beyond Mere Christianity: An Assessment of C.S. Lewis.” Christian Research Journal, Sept/Oct 2004.
• “Born Again. . . and Again and Again.” The Lutheran Witness 117:10 (October 1998).
• Worship. Lutheran Difference Bible Study Series, Concordia Publishing House, 2004.
• Miracles of Jesus, Concordia Publishing House, 2001.
• Parables of Jesus, Concordia Publishing House, 2000.
• Journey Through God’s Word: An Introductory Course: Revelation. Concordia Publishing House, 1999.
• Journey Through God’s Word: An Introductory Course: Psalms. Concordia Publishing House, 1999.

Hymns

• “Your Word Brought Forth the Universe.” Forthcoming.
• “Unto Jerusalem.” (tune: Southwell). Concordia University, 2011.
• "Lord You Call Us as Your People.” (tune: Joyous Light). Commissioned for the Inauguration of Dr. Kurt Krueger, President of Concordia University Irvine, 2010.
• “Loving Father, You Have Made Us.” (tune: Suo Gan). 2010.
• “In Many Times and Various Ways.” (tune: Winchester Old). Abiding Savior Lutheran Church, 2009.
• “Christ, the Word of God, Incarnate.” (tune: Holy Manna). Lutheran Service Book, 2006. Also included in Christian Worship Supplement. Northwestern, 2008.

Associate Professor of Theology, Director of Graduate Program

Biography

Joel Oesch, MDiv, holds a PhD from Concordia Seminary and is a graduate of Yale University. He is Director of the Graduate Programs in Theology. Professor Oesch served as Director of Christian Education for 10 years. His research interests are embodied theology, the writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and contemporary culture. He’s served Concordia since 2012.

Education

• Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO, PhD 2015
• Yale University, New Haven, CT, M.Div. 2009
• Concordia University, Irvine, CA, B.A. 1997

Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor of Theology

Associate Professor of Christian Education

Dr. Dave Rueter, in addition to serving Concordia University as professor, he also serves Pacific Southwest District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as Youth and Family Ministry Facilitator. His research is on the Lutheran practice of confirmation and catechesis. Dave has always had a heart for the larger church having served as a committee member for several youth gatherings at the district and synodical level. He has also served he Body of Christ speaking at youth gatherings and conferences. Dave and his wife, Andrea, live in Anaheim with their sons, James and Wesley. As a family, they enjoy camping, Angel's baseball, and as much travel as a young family can pull off.

Education

• Biola University, Talbot School of Theology, La Mirada, CA, PhD 2011
• Trinity International University, Deerfield, IL, M.A. 2003
• Concordia University Irvine, CA, B.A. 1996

Professional Experience

• Concordia University Irvine, 2011-Present
• Pacific Southwest District LC-MS, Irvine, CA, 2011-Present
• Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Rancho Cucamonga, CA, 2007-2011
• Concordia University Irvine, CA, 2007 (Adjunct Faculty)
• Faith Lutheran Church, Huntington Beach, CA, 1998-2007
• Bethany Lutheran Church, Austin, TX, 1996-1997

Resident Faculty in Theology

Education

• M.A. Theology, Concordia University Irvine, 2011
  106 unit curriculum including coursework and embedded vicarage
  Also received full certification for Ordination in the LCMS. (Ordained Aug. 2011)
• M.A. Education, Concordia University Irvine, 1994
  Curriculum and Instruction emphasis
• B.S. Business Administration, Arizona State University, 1982

Teaching Experience

• THL 105 - LIFE OF CHRIST (2017-2018)
  Designed and wrote curriculum and syllabus for introductory theology class aimed at Concordia’s international students who have little or no exposure to Christianity or the Bible.
• CTHL 200 - INTRODUCTION TO THEOLOGICAL THOUGHT (2013-2014)
  Core Theology course for all CUI transfer students. Work collaboratively with Theology and Philosophy faculty.
• CTHL 101 - FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY (2010-current)
  Core Theology course for all CUI freshmen. Work collaboratively with Theology and Biology faculty.
• CCI 203 - CHURCH POLITY, ORGANIZATION AND STRUCTURE (2011-2018)
  Presents history and organizational structure of LCMS for undergraduate Church-work students so that they can work with integrity in the LCMS while creatively carrying out mission activities.
• THL 101 - FOUNDATIONS OF CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY (2000-2010)
• ENG 102 - WRITING AND RESEARCH (2002-2005)
• COM 311 - COMMUNICATING IN TODAY'S WORLD (ADULT DEGREE COMPLETION) (2004-2005)
  Developed curriculum and syllabus in collaboration with other instructors.
• ESL - AMERICAN STUDIES (2001-2002)
  Taught and developed curriculum in a reading, speaking and listening class for ESL students.

Related Experience

• Cross-Cultural Ministry Center Program Coordinator, (2003-current)
  Coordinate any and all administrative aspects of the CMC, including program partners at LCMS, Concordia Seminary, and Concordia University Irvine
• Part Time Pastoral Ministry Staff at St. John's Lutheran Orange, CA, (2019)
• Great Commision Certificate Director, (2014-current)
  Launch and administer Concordia University’s Great Commission Certificate program which awards a certificate to undergraduates who complete a set of coursework, participate in local and global mission and service/learning experiences, and enter the Great Commission Showcase
• Urawa Lutheran School Summer Study Coordinator, (2007-2013)
  Planned and supervised all portions of the partner arrangement between Concordia Irvine and Urawa Lutheran School in Saitama, Japan, where 20-25 high school students visited Concordia for 2 weeks each summer – studying English language, and American culture
• Preaching, Leading Worship, and Speaking Engagements, (2011-current)
  
  • Grace Lutheran (San Diego, CA)
  • Zion (Anaheim, CA)
  • St. John Lutheran (Covina, CA)
  • Christ Lutheran (Rancho Palos Verdes, CA)
  • St. Paul’s Lutheran (Garden Grove, CA)
  • Hephatha Lutheran (Anaheim Hills, CA)
  • First Lutheran (Temple City, CA)
  • Prince of Peace (Anaheim, CA)
  • Mt. Calvary (Diamond Bar, CA)
  • St. John’s (El Segundo, CA)
  • Break out Session at Higher Things Las Vegas (Two Kingdoms)
  • Breakout Sessions at Best Practices (Christocentric Nature of Scripture & its Impact on Mission)
  • Brief lecture on Christian Worship for Villa Park High School Band Program, 2016
• Bookstore Manager, Concordia University Irvine, (1995-2003)

Service to the University

• Coordinated Rev. Dr. Esetu Abatu Memorial with Water to Thrive, 2012
• Student Policies Committee, 2012-2013
• Advancement in Rank Task Force, 2014-2015
• Education Policies Committee, 2016-2018

Languages

• English - Native Language
• Biblical Greek - Can Work in Greek at a Level Sufficient for Basic Exegetical Work
• Korean - Can Read and Speak at a Minimum Level
• German - Can Read at a Minimum Level

Awards and Honors

• Christ College Alumni Award, 2001
• Urawa Faculty Exchange Team Member, 2007 & 2013

Assistant Professor of Theology & Director of Ministerial Formation

After serving congregations near Pittsburgh, PA and Chicago, IL, bioethicist and theologian Scott Stiegemeyer joined the Faculty at CUI in 2015. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in bioethics from Loyola University, Chicago. A published author, and speaker, his research interests include the theology of the body, medical ethics, transhumanism, and human sexuality.

Professor of Theology

Rev. Dr. Dean Vieselmeyer attended Concordia College in Seward, Nebraska, and Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Illinois, earning his Masters of Divinity in 1974. He then received his Master’s Degree in Human Development and the Family in 1982 and his Ph.D. in Education - Administration and Curriculum/Instruction in 1989 from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. From 1974 until 1977 he served as instructor in religion and coach in various sports at Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Dean then served at Concordia College, Seward, Nebraska, as Director of Student Life, Assistant Professor of Theology, and Assistant Football Coach. Since 1985 he has been at Concordia University Irvine as a theology professor and for 16 years as Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Services. He keeps his hand in sports by assisting the Lutheran High School of Orange County football team as the Leadership Coordinator. Dean conducts seminars, workshops, and Bible studies on leadership, team building, conflict resolution, self esteem, behavioral styles, strategies for success, and family issues (sexuality, parenting and marriage enrichment). He speaks in numerous congregations and schools and has served as a speaker at district pastoral and teacher conferences, as well as at national youth conferences. He has also spoken at the National Noel Levitz Retention Conference and the National NASPA Conference on development of the whole person, as well as leading seminars in Indonesia for 14 Christian Universities on student development and character building.

Education

• University of Nebraska, Lincoln, M.S., 1981; Ph.D. 1989
• Concordia Theological Seminary, Springfield, IL, M.Div., 1974
• Concordia Teachers College, Seward, NE, B.S.Ed., 1970

Professional Experience

• Concordia University since 1985
• Concordia Teachers College, Seward, NE, 1977-85
• Milwaukee Lutheran High School, WI, 1974-77