Andrew Koperski (Ph.D., M.A.)
Dr. Koperski graduated with a double-major in Latin and History from Hillsdale College in 2015. At Ohio University, he earned a Master’s degree in Ancient History in 2018, with a thesis researching early Christian traditions about the Virgin Mary. He completed his doctorate in History at Ohio State University, which focused on ancient history broadly, with areas of specialization in late antiquity, early Christianity, and the later Roman Empire. Specifically, his dissertation considered the evolution in ancient notions of textual authenticity and their effect on early Christian conceptions of scriptural authority, especially as these categories were regulated by bishops.
He describes his background as “evangelical,” Over the course of his life, he attended churches of varying traditions: everything from megachurches to small Anglican parishes. In the last several years especially, he has settled into the Baptist tradition by conviction on several notable issues (e.g., credobaptism).
Foundational influences on his thinking include standard recent lights such as C.S. Lewis and N.T. Wright. He also admires much of Dallas Williard’s larger project, and J. R. R. Tolkien’s stories have shaped much of his moral thinking. From among the church fathers, he appreciates much in Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Eusebius. In general, he is a fervent believer in Lewis’s notion of mere Christianity. That is, Christians really ought to master fundamental beliefs and disciplines before turning attention to disputable issues, which should then be handled irenically. For that reason, he is able to work well with students of varying theological backgrounds.