Ryan Peterson

Ryan Peterson’s research interests lie in the areas of theological anthropology and theological method. He teaches systematic and historical theology, and particularly enjoys working with students on the doctrines of God, humanity, sin, Christology, and the atonement. He is deeply interested in the growth of his students in the knowledge and love of God and the way such growth motivates Christian worship, wisdom, friendship, and stewardship.

Affiliation Faculty, Alumnus
Position Associate Professor, Department of Theology
Position Co-Chair, Department of Theology
Degree M.A., Biola University

Author's books

For Us, but Not to Us: Essays on Creation, Covenant, and Context in Honor of John H. Walton

John H. Walton is a significant voice in Old Testament studies, who has influenced many scholars in this field as well as others. This volume is an acknowledgment from his students of Walton’s role as a teacher, scholar, and mentor. Each essay is offered by scholars (and former students) working in a range of fields—from Old and New Testament studies to archaeology and theology. They are offered as a testimony and tribute to Walton’s prolific career.”

The Imago Dei as Human Identity: A Theological Interpretation

How do we best read Genesis 1 in its literary, historical, and cultural contexts? How should it be read theologically? How should we read Genesis 1 as a canonical text? This book charts a path through these disagreements by offering a dogmatically coherent and exegetically sound canonical interpretation of the image of God. Peterson argues that the fundamental claim of Genesis 1:26–28 is that humanity is created to image God actively in the world. “Made in the image of God” is an identity claim. As such, it tells us about humanity’s relationship with God and the rest of creation, what humanity does in the world, and what humanity is to become. Understanding the imago Dei as human identity has the further advantage of illuminating humanity’s ontology.