Rate My Professor Don Moffat

Dr Don Moffat is the Sir Paul Reeves Lecturer in Biblical Studies at the College of St John the Evangelist in Auckland, New Zealand, and has been a visiting lecturer in the Theology Programme at the University of Otago since 2015. He holds a PhD from the University of Otago, with his doctoral thesis titled "Ezra's Social Drama: The Mixed Marriage Controversy in Ezra 9 and 10 as Social Conflict." This research examines identity formation, marriage policies, and social conflict in post-exilic Judah, drawing on social drama theory. The thesis formed the basis for his monograph, Ezra’s Social Drama: Identity Formation, Marriage, and Social Conflict in Ezra 9-10, published by T&T Clark in 2014. Prior to these roles, Moffat served as regional Dean of Studies at the Bible College of New Zealand (now Laidlaw College), where he contributed to theological education in the Waikato region.

At the University of Otago, Moffat teaches advanced Biblical Studies papers, including BIBS221 The Gospels, which covers the nature of the Gospels, themes from Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, critical issues, and exegesis of selected passages; BIBS321 The Gospels (Advanced), providing deeper analysis; BIBS224 Special Topic: The Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, focusing on theological themes and narrative unity; and BIBS315 Special Topic: Israel’s Return from Exile, addressing Ezra-Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, temple reconstruction, and penitential prayer traditions. These courses emphasize critical evaluation of scholarly views, historical contexts, and interpretive methods for lifelong learning. Moffat’s research specializations include social dynamics in Old Testament texts, particularly Ezra 9-10, Gospel studies, and contemporary applications such as living with multiple allegiances. He edited Te Korowai o Te Rangimārie (2022), exploring peace, treaty, partnership, and covenant theology. He delivered the public lecture "Living Faithfully with Multiple Allegiances: Learning from Ezra and Nehemiah" in the University of Otago Theology Programme’s online seminar series in 2020. Through teaching, publications, and presentations, Moffat influences biblical scholarship and theological formation in Aotearoa New Zealand.