"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." Romans 1:16, NIV
Dr. David S. Ritsema serves as Dean and Assistant Professor of New Testament at B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University. He earned a B.A. in Christian Ministry from ETBU, an M.Div. from George W. Truett Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in New Testament from B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary. His doctoral dissertation, The Divine Messiah: A Portrait of Jesus in the Johannine Literature, explored the Christological witness of the Gospel and Letters of John.
His research focuses on Johannine literature, New Testament Christology, and biblical theology, with particular interest in how scholarship shapes the church’s preaching, discipleship, and mission. He has presented research at regional, national, and international gatherings, including Regent’s Park College at the University of Oxford, the St. Andrews Symposium on the Divine Son in Scotland, and the Society of Biblical Literature International Meeting in Berlin. He has authored more than 15 books and commentaries, along with scholarly articles, reviews, essays, and digital resources for church and academic audiences.
Dr. Ritsema has more than 25 years of pastoral ministry experience, including 13 years at First Baptist Church of Waxahachie and five years at Woodlawn Baptist Church in Austin. His leadership helped congregations experience growth and renewal through expanded ministries, staff development, capital campaigns, debt reduction, construction projects, and campus relocation.
He has participated in organizations including the Society of Biblical Literature, Evangelical Theological Society, Institute for Biblical Research, American Schools of Oriental Research, and National Association of Baptist Professors of Religion.
He and his wife, Kristin, have five children. His life and work reflect a commitment to the gospel, the local church, and preparing disciples for faithful service in God’s kingdom.