David Zachariah Flanagin, Ph.D., is Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at Saint Mary’s College of California, where he teaches courses in the development of Christian thought and in biblical studies. His teaching has earned him recognition by the student body as Faculty Member of the Year. Prof. Flanagin received his doctorate in the History of Christianity from the Divinity School at the University of Chicago. He is the author of a number of articles on late-medieval ecclesiology and biblical interpretation. He is the co-editor (with Christopher M. Bellitto) of Reassessing Reform: A Historical Investigation into Church Renewal, published by Catholic University of America Press. In addition to his academic duties, he lectures frequently at churches on topics in the Bible and theology.
Praise for Zach Flanagin
“Zach Flanagin is an outstanding historian… thoroughly grounded in his material, but with special gifts as a lecturer. His works in late medieval spirituality are top-notch and I commend him for searching out the origins of this spirituality in its very beginnings.”– Gerald Christianson, Professor Emeritus of Church History, Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary
“Zach Flanagin enjoys the unique combination of deep learning and clear teaching, which is why I recommended him to Now You Know Media. He can communicate complicated subjects in an accessible manner that raises the level of conversation. You will leave his courses with greater insights into church history and the spirituality that drives it.” – Christopher Bellitto, Ph.D., History Department, Kean University
“He is an energetic, captivating and enthusiastic lecturer who speaks to both experienced and beginning Bible students. His knowledge and love of the Bible resonates with adults. He not only covers the history and message of each book, but always inspires his listener to find meaning and application for life today.” – Nora Petersen, Director of Adult Formation at St. John Vianney Parish, CA
“I have the privilege of working closely with Professor Flanagin, who is—and I do not exaggerate—one of the most gifted writers and verbal communicators I know. His scholarship in Christian history is influential, and his classroom teaching is masterful.” – Michael Barram, Ph.D., Saint Mary’s College of California
Joseph O., CA –
2015 Spring Survey
Flanagin’s Historical Jesus: his conversational yet very informational teaching style invites a type of “dialogue” response, plus (finally) the use of video enhancements – photos, summaries, glossaries – to go along with the mere filming of the instructor.
Edward –
Balanced study with good Theology.
Best analysis that I have come across. Balanced study with good Theology.
Joseph –
The selection and development of topics gives an excellent general overview, allowing one to go into more depth when desired.
Dr. Flanagin’s style of teaching, a sharing of information gleaned from his studies, reflection, and experience, in a conversational tone (rather than pedantic, academic) brings one (me) into “the class” more personally and vibrantly. His selection and development of topics gives an excellent general overview, allowing one to go into more depth when desired.
John D. –
His presentation is lucid and enthralling.
Zachariah Flanagin is thoroughly conversant with the subject matter and the contemporary scholarship about Jesus. His presentation is lucid and enthralling. I use it as a major resource in my course on Jesus.
William M., IA –
Fall Survey: October 2016
It is challenging, creative, and easy to understand.
Tom –
Very fair
A very fair, articulate introduction into the subject matter.
Kathleen –
Well-organized
Dr. Flanagin is exceptionally knowledgeable and scholarly, but his presentation style is accessible and he is easy to listen to. The course was well-organized and the content was presented in a logical sequence that made it easy to follow along. Dr. Flanagin covered an incredible amount of information in a concise and succinct manner, and made even challenging concepts and complex topics understandable. I would recommend this course without reservation.
John J S., PA –
Summer Survey: July 2017
The Historical Jesus: It provides accurate and scholarly information, but it is easily accessible to the educated non-theologian.
Gene K. H., FL –
Summer Survey: July 2017
The professor’s delivery and the content were excellent. He described the work of others, like the Jesus Seminar, but he expressed original thoughts and ideas as well. His view of Jesus as prophet, teacher, healer, social rebel, and messiah were thought provoking.