OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas and Co-Provost Dr. Matthew Emerson Earn Prestigious Book of the Year Honors

December 5, 2025

Reflecting OBU’s commitment to shaping thoughtful Christian scholars, the Southwestern Journal of Theology has recognized two books, each co-authored separately by OBU President Dr. Heath A. Thomas and Co-Provost Dr. Matthew Emerson, as the top books of 2025 in biblical studies and Baptist studies.

The annual Book of the Year awards, selected by scholars across multiple academic disciplines, represent many of the best Christian books published in 2025.

“Reading the Old Testament as Christian Scripture,” co-authored by Thomas with Mark S. Gignilliat, was recognized as the top selection in biblical studies. The honor affirms the depth of OBU’s academic community and Thomas’ ongoing influence as both a biblical scholar and a president committed to cultivating rigorous, faithful engagement with Scripture.

“The Baptist Vision: Faith and Practice for a Believers’ Church,” co-authored by Emerson and R. Lucas Stamps, received the top award in the Baptist studies category. This recognition reflects Emerson’s leadership as a theologian and the commitment of OBU’s faculty to providing Christ-centered, academically grounded scholarship. Through his teaching and research, Emerson equips students and church leaders to approach their faith with wisdom, clarity and confidence.

Thomas, a 1998 OBU graduate, became the university’s 16th president in 2020 after joining the faculty in 2015. His earlier service includes directing Ph.D. studies and teaching Old Testament and Hebrew at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. At OBU, he previously led the Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry and held other academic leadership roles. With advanced degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and the University of Gloucestershire (UK), he has written extensively on biblical theology. His work embodies the deep engagement with Scripture that anchors OBU’s academic mission.

Emerson joined OBU in 2015 following service at California Baptist University, where he chaired the arts and sciences department. He holds degrees from Auburn University and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and has authored or contributed to more than 20 publications. His ongoing involvement in national scholarly organizations—including co-editing the Journal of Baptist Studies and co-directing the Center for Baptist Renewal—reflects the historically rooted, theologically faithful approach to faith and learning that shapes the student experience at OBU.

Together, their achievements exemplify the scholarship and Christ-centered leadership that define OBU’s academic community.