Simmons Presents in Vienna
By Karen Chambless
Dr. William Simmons, professor of New Testament studies and Greek at Lee University, presented a paper at the International Meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature. The conference took place July 6-11 and was held at the University of Vienna.
Simmons’ paper was titled “Paul’s Χριστός (Christ) Ontology: The Theological Significance of Sun-, Sυg- and Sυm- Prefixes in Romans,” the thesis being that “the Apostle Paul envisions a new ‘state of being’ (or ontology) for those who have faith in Christ Jesus.”
“Throughout the book of Romans,” said Simmons, “Paul uses a number of ‘together prefixes’ to communicate this intimate spiritual connection, a connection that creates an entirely new way of existing for the believer.”
Simmons, a Lee alumnus, teaches a variety of New Testament classes, including “Inductive Study of James,” “New Testament Greek,” “Romans and Galatians,” and “People of the NT World,” among others.
He received his doctorate from University of St. Andrews/Scotland, his master of divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary, his master’s degree from Church of God Theological Seminary, and his bachelor’s degree from Lee College. He also did post-graduate work at the University of Heidelberg and with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.
Furthermore, the Evangelical Christian Publisher’s Association recognized Simmons’ book “Peoples of the New Testament World” as among the top five best books in the Bible Reference and Study Category. Simmons’ other books include “Philippians: A Path to Joy”; “James: A Path to Discipleship”; “A Pentecostal Approach to Bible Study: Leader’s Guide”; and “A Concise Background of the New Testament.”
Throughout his career at Lee, Simmons has presented papers at the national conferences of the Society of Biblical Literature, the Evangelical Theological Society, and the Society for Pentecostal Studies, among many others.
Simmons has taught and done mission work at the European Bible Seminary in Rudersburg, Germany. Additionally, he has taught in Korea, Honduras, the Philippines, Guatemala, Cuba and Peru.
He and his wife Lenae have two sons, David Andrew and Nathaniel Stewart, and one daughter, Laura Marie. Originally from Metairie, La., he enjoys reading early American history, landscaping and gardening.
