Michael J. Wilkins

Michael J. Wilkins is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of New Testament Language and Literature and former Dean of the Faculty at Talbot School of Theology. He retired in 2020. He was on the faculty at Talbot/Biola since 1977, first as an adjunct professor, then full-time since 1983. He has an M.Div. from Talbot and a Ph.D. in New Testament from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is the author of numerous books, commentaries, and articles.

Affiliations Faculty, Student
Position Distinguished Prof. of NT Language and Literature
Degree Master of Divinity, Talbot School of Theology
Degree B.A. Psychology
Degree B.A. Social Sciences/Missions

Author's books

Biblical and Theological Studies: A Student’s Guide

In this book, Michael J. Wilkins and Erik Thoennes team up to offer readers a robust introduction to biblical and theological studies. This readable guide outlines a distinctly evangelical approach to studying the Bible and theology, highlighting the proper methods for understanding and synthesizing the teachings of the Bible, leading to deeper knowledge of God, ourselves, and how we are to meaningfully apply his Word to our lives.

Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship

In Following the Master, Michael J. Wilkins addresses questions that perplex the church today- not by offering another discipleship program or manual but by presenting a comprehensive biblical theology of discipleship. Following the Master compares other forms of master-disciple relationships in existence in the ancient Judaism and Greco-Roman world, traces Jesus’ steps as he called and developed disciples, and Mediterranean world as it followed Jesus’ command to make disciples. Following the Master lays the groundwork necessary for developing biblical discipleship ministries in the church, on the mission field, and in parachurch ministries. It is essential reading for all pastors, students, and Christian workers.

Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship – Unabridged Audiobook

In Following the Master, Michael J. Wilkins addresses questions that perplex the church today- not by offering another discipleship program or manual but by presenting a comprehensive biblical theology of discipleship. Following the Master compares other forms of master-disciple relationships in existence in the ancient Judaism and Greco-Roman world, traces Jesus’ steps as he called and developed disciples, and Mediterranean world as it followed Jesus’ command to make disciples. Following the Master lays the groundwork necessary for developing biblical discipleship ministries in the church, on the mission field, and in parachurch ministries. It is essential reading for all pastors, students, and Christian workers.

In His Image: Reflecting Christ in Everyday Life

The ultimate goal of discipleship is to be like Jesus. But is that even possible? Our difficulty often lies in not clearly understanding who Jesus is, not recognizing the resources available to us as God’s children, or not believing who we are to be as Christ’s followers. This book can help define our identity in Christ and refuel our passion to be like Him.

Jesus Under Fire: Modern Scholarship Reinvents the Historical Jesus

Jesus Under Fire challenges the methodology and findings of the Jesus Seminar, which generally clash with the biblical records. It examines the authenticity of the words, actions, miracles, and resurrection of Jesus, and presents compelling evidence for the traditional biblical teachings. Combining accessibility with scholarly depth, Jesus Under Fire helps readers judge for themselves whether the Jesus of the Bible is the Jesus of history, and whether the gospels’ claim is valid that he is the only way to God.

The Matthew Commentary Collection: An All-In-One Commentary Collection for Studying the Book of Matthew

This all-in-one commentary bundle on the book of Matthew features volumes from the NIV Application Commentary Series, Zondervan Exegetical Commentary Series, and Story of God Bible Commentary Series. Each volume provides new and unique insights from leading biblical scholars Michael Wilkins, Grant Osborne, and Scot McKnight. The unique features from each volume along with the diverse insights provided by the authors gives you all the tools you need to study and master the book of Matthew.

Women and Men in Ministry: A Complementary Perspective

Are we working together as well as we could be? The role of women in the church is an ongoing debate within the church. On one side are those who say there is no difference between men and women. On the other side are those who severely limit women who want to offer ministry to the church. Judith TenElshof and Robert Saucy take the middle approach. Believing that the modern views have denied the distinctions between men and women, TenElshof and Saucy take the complementarian approach. They argue that while men and women are equal, God has given different roles to each, and that these roles rely on each other to be fully effective.

Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary, 5 Volumes: New Testament

View the New Testament through the eyes of a first-century reader! Based on relevant papyri, inscriptions, archaeological discoveries, and the latest research on Judaism, Roman culture, Hellenism, and other sources, this accessible reference offers a verse-by-verse look at the NT, putting it in its ancient context. The Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary Set includes hundreds of color photographs, illustrations, maps, charts, and more. The set includes Matthew, Mark, Luke (Volume 1); John (Volume 2A); Acts (Volume 2B); Romans to Philemon (Volume 3); and Hebrews to Revelation (Volume 4).