Lecturer at Senate of Serampore College (University) , India
Philip Puthuparambil Sam is an accomplished theologian and ordained minister with expertise in Biblical studies and Pentecostal spirituality. He has a deep commitment to both academic and ministry work. With a background in psychology and theology, he has pursued a range of academic degrees, including BSc in Applied Zoology and a Master of Theology. Philip has served as an ordained minister in Himachal Pradesh and Kerala for over a decade, contributing significantly to various religious and social causes. Since 2017, he has been a visiting lecturer at Bethel Bible College, Punalur, and India Bible College, Kumbanad, Kerala. Currently, he is a core faculty member at Bethel Bible College, furthering his research in Biblical interpretation and spirituality. He is also actively engaged in writing, editing, and presenting papers at national and international conferences.
Orcid
Educational Background šš
Philip Sam has an extensive academic background in both religious studies and psychology. He completed his BSc in Applied Zoology from Delhi University in 1999, achieving the Universityās 2nd Rank. He pursued his theological studies at Gospel for Asia Biblical Seminary, Kerala, and earned a Bachelor of Divinity in 2003 with First Class honors. In 2004, he completed an MSc in Psychology from Madras University, graduating with First Class honors. Further refining his expertise, he earned a Master of Theology from Gurukul Lutheran Theological College, Chennai, in 2006, where he was awarded the Masterās Prize. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Theology at FFRRC, Kottayam, under the Senate of Serampore. His academic journey reflects his commitment to advancing both his theological knowledge and his understanding of human psychology, which inform his teaching and ministry work.
Philip Samās ministry experience spans over a decade, with a strong foundation in both pastoral and academic roles. From 2006 to 2017, he served as an ordained minister of the Assemblies of God Church in Himachal Pradesh, where he was deeply involved in both spiritual leadership and community development. Since 2017, Philip has been a visiting lecturer at Bethel Bible College, Punalur, and India Bible College, Kumbanad, Kerala. He also worked as the Chief Editor of “Conviction: Journal of Bethel Bible College” from 2019 to 2020, playing a pivotal role in shaping theological discourse. Philip has served among migrant laborers in Kerala, addressing their social and spiritual needs. Since 2023, he has been a core faculty member at Bethel Bible College, where he contributes to the academic and spiritual development of future ministers. His work combines both hands-on ministry and scholarly teaching, enhancing his influence in religious education.
Throughout his academic and ministry journey, Philip Sam has received several notable accolades that reflect his exceptional commitment and scholarly achievements. His BSc in Applied Zoology from Delhi University earned him the prestigious University 2nd Rank. His academic excellence continued with his Master of Theology from Gurukul Lutheran Theological College, where he was awarded the Masterās Prize. His publications, including articles in academic journals and edited books, demonstrate his critical thinking and contribution to theological discourse. He also earned recognition for his leadership as the Chief Editor of “Conviction: Journal of Bethel Bible College,” where he facilitated the publication of insightful theological work. Philipās ability to bring fresh perspectives to Biblical interpretation and Pentecostal spirituality has garnered him respect in both academic and ministry circles. His scholarship and leadership have earned him recognition within the global Christian academic community.
Research Interests šš
Philip Samās research focuses on Biblical interpretation, Pentecostal spirituality, and the theological challenges faced in contemporary India. His work in Biblical studies delves into topics such as the intersection of exile and spiritual identity, as seen in his research on the books of Isaiah and Ezekiel. He explores the complex relationship between the Old Testament texts and their subversive themes, such as the hybrid figure in Isaiah 11, reflecting on how these ancient texts speak to modern contexts. His interest in Pentecostal spirituality, particularly in the Indian context, leads him to explore the roots of Pentecostal beliefs and their application to Indian social and religious realities. Additionally, Philip examines the political and social narratives influencing theology, demonstrated by his work on the Citizenship Amendment Act and its implications for the Indian Christian community. His research aims to integrate Biblical scholarship with pressing social issues, offering a unique voice in global theological discourse.
Conclusion :
Based on his distinguished academic credentials, impressive body of published work, and active participation in global academic discourses, Philip Puthuparambil Sam demonstrates all the qualities expected from a recipient of the “Best Researcher Award.” His research is not only academically rigorous but also contributes to the critical understanding of contemporary issues in theology and their broader socio-political implications, particularly in India. This combination of scholarly achievements and societal impact makes him an ideal candidate for the award.