Baylor University’s Truett Seminary Appoints Dr. Matthew D. Kim as Professor of Practical Theology and Raborn Chair of Pastoral Leadership

Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary Dean Todd D. Still, PhD, has announced the appointment of Matthew D. Kim, PhD, as Professor of Practical Theology and the Hubert H. and Gladys S. Raborn Chair of Pastoral Leadership. He will join the Truett Seminary faculty on August 1, 2022, following the retirement of Dr. R. Robert Creech, effective May 31, 2022.

“After a national search, Dr. Matthew D. Kim comes to Baylor’s Truett Theological Seminary with experience as a pastor, preacher, and teacher. He is a nationally recognized author of books in pastoral ministry and leadership and preaching,” said Scott M. Gibson, DPhil, Professor of Preaching, Holder of the David E. Garland Chair of Preaching, Director of the PhD in Preaching Program, and chair of the search committee who recommended Kim. “At Baylor, we expect Dr. Kim will continue to contribute to the classroom and to research in the field of practical theology. We welcome him with enthusiasm.”

Kim currently serves as the George F. Bennett Professor of Preaching and Practical Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Before joining the faculty at Gordon-Conwell in 2012, Kim served for a decade in pastoral ministry, including as Senior Pastor of Logos Central Chapel in Denver. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Carleton College, Master of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell, and Master of Theology and PhD from the University of Edinburgh.

“With the addition of Matthew D. Kim, the already strong faculty of Baylor’s Truett Seminary becomes even stronger,” remarked Dean Still. “Dr. Kim is a seasoned theological educator, an experienced local church minister, and a prolific author. Furthermore, his Christian commitments and character will positively impact our seminary community, not least the students who will be privileged to learn from and with him. It is an honor and pleasure to welcome Dr. Kim and his family to our school, city, and state, where we trust that they flourish like a luxuriant vine.”

Kim’s research interests cover a wide range of topics related to ministry and preaching. His most recent publications include Preaching to People in Pain: How Suffering Can Shape Your Sermons and Connect with Your Congregation (2021) and 7 Lessons for New Pastors: Your First Year in Ministry, Second Edition (2021), in addition to The Big Idea Companion for Preaching and Teaching: A Guide from Genesis to Revelation (2021), which he co-edited with Scott Gibson. His book, Preaching to a Divided Nation: A Seven-Step Model for Promoting Reconciliation and Unity, is to be released this August.

Kim is married to Sarah, and they have three boys who love to play basketball. The Kims are looking forward to cheering on the Baylor Bears, especially the Baylor Basketball teams.

“In God's providence, we will soon be joining an august faculty at Truett Seminary. My family and I are humbled and honored to be part of the wonderful community at Truett and Baylor. We trust that over the coming years we will be able to share our lives with you and collectively work toward building God's kingdom for His glory,” Kim said. “My passion is to train the next generation of pastoral shepherds and to encourage ministry leaders in the local church! We look forward to getting to know you better!”

Please join us in welcoming Matthew Kim to the Truett Family!