About

Tim Sensing is an experienced scholar, teacher, and administrator with over three decades of service in theological education and ministry. As Professor Emeritus of Practical Theology and Scholar in Residence at Abilene Christian University, he has taught across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels, directed the Doctor of Ministry program, and mentored students in preaching, biblical interpretation, and pastoral leadership. His research and publications focus on homiletics, hermeneutics, and theological interpretation, integrating rigorous scholarship with practical formation for ministry. In addition to books, peer-reviewed articles, and editorial leadership, he has served churches as a preacher and consultant, fostering the integration of faith, scholarship, and practice. Recognized for excellence in teaching and faculty service, he is committed to equipping the next generation of Christian leaders through innovative pedagogy, interdisciplinary research, and a deep commitment to the church’s witness in the world.

Education

• PhD, Curriculum and Instruction, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 1998. Minor: Rhetoric and Composition. Dissertation: Pedagogies of Preaching.
• ThM, Homiletics, Duke University, 1994. Minor: New Testament. Thesis: Preaching Paraenesis.
• DMin, Homiletics, Harding Graduate School of Religion, 1992. Thesis: Testing the Validity of Buttrick’s Homiletic: Preaching from Matthew 13.
• MTh [MDiv], Harding Graduate School of Religion, 1984.
• BS, Environmental Occupational Safety and Health, Purdue University, 1980.

Experience

• Scholar in Residence, Graduate School of Theology, Abilene Christian University (2026–2028)
• Professor Emeritus of Practical Theology (2026–present)
• Professor of Practical Theology (2010–2026)
• Doctor of Ministry Director (2025–2026)
• Associate Dean and Chief Academic Officer, Graduate School of Theology (2013–2022)
• Director of Academic Services (2009–2013)
• Associate Professor of Ministry and Homiletics (2005–2009)
• Assistant Professor of Ministry and Homiletics (1998–2004)
• Director of the Supervised Practice of Ministry (1998–2009)
• Full-time preaching minister in Tennessee, New Jersey, Indiana, North Carolina, and South Carolina (1982–1998)

Recognition

Outstanding Graduate Faculty, College of Biblical Studies, Abilene Christian University, 2021–2022.