Reformed Theological Seminary is pleased to announce that Dr. Christopher Watkin was appointed as Fellow of Philosophy and Culture, following the April 6, 2023 meeting of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees. Dr. Watkin will teach Christian Cultural and Social Theory as a winter intensive at RTS New York City and speak at other events throughout the academic year.
An RTS fellow may be invited to lecture, contribute to seminary publications, have an office, receive library privileges, and more. This designation honors Dr. Watkin’s contributions to Reformed worldview thinking and scholarship and recognizes him for lectures and seminars given at the New York City and Washington campuses.
“Chris is an internationally known scholar of the highest caliber and has already been a blessing to the church in New York City,” said Dr. Ligon Duncan, RTS Chancellor and CEO. “This appointment signals our institution’s continued commitment to bring the best theological education to New York City and the wider region.”
Dr. Watkin has earned an international reputation in the area of modern European thought, atheism, and the relationship of the Bible and philosophy. He also maintains research interests in new ways of conceiving of the social contract, themes of liberation and emancipation across culture, and the philosophical understanding of the human being. An Associate Professor of French studies at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, Dr. Watkin is the author of Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture. He holds B.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. degrees from Jesus College at Cambridge University.
The late Dr. Timothy Keller was also a vocal supporter of Dr. Watkin’s work.
“Everyone close to Tim was aware of his utmost appreciation for Chris’ incisive intellect and Christlike character,” said Dr. Jay Harvey, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Theology and Executive Director at RTS New York City. “When Chris taught here in January, every student came away with a deeper love for Christ and even greater confidence in the gospel.”