Offering two courses at Pepperdine University (Spring 2026)

In Spring 2026 I am teaching two undergraduate courses at Pepperdine University (Seaver College).

1. The Way of Jesus (REL 100)
   • “Who do you say that I am?” This simple question, asked by Jesus of his disciples, has become one of the most meaningful questions ever posed. The answers his followers have given have inspired profound changes in their lives and shaped history—from building monasteries and hospitals to going on mission trips and supporting the civil rights movement, and even to crusades and other difficult conflicts. Whether or not you believe Jesus is God, understanding who he is and how Christians follow his teachings helps us better see our world and the lasting impact of Christianity.
2. Christianity and Science / Technology (REL 300)
   • Science and technology are advancing at an exponential rate. Developments such as evolution (biology), neuroscience, and the Big Bang (physics) have challenged the rationality and credibility of faith communities, while advances in artificial intelligence (ChatGPT, robotics, self-driving technologies), post- and transhumanism, and gene editing have enhanced human living even as they raise ethical, social, and psychological questions in both religious and secular contexts. Together we consider the decline of Christianity in the Global North and its rise in the Global South, alongside traditions such as Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, and Jainism, that exemplify historical conflict, dialogue, and ethical engagement between religion and science. Students develop critical-thinking and research skills through real-world examples across Western and non-Western contexts, and practice constructive, respectful discussion of controversial topics with those who hold fundamentally different viewpoints.