(re)Introducing the IVP Publishing Board: Seidel Abel Boanerges

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself – what you do day to day.

Currently, I work as the Dean of Ministerial Formation at Spurgeon’s College, London. It is a senior executive role, and it encompasses the strategic supervision and management of ministerial formation activities across multiple locations (London, Birmingham and Cambridge). I have the responsibility for three distinct categories of ministers at Spurgeon’s College: Ministers in Training (MiTs in the Baptist Union of Great Britain and wider Christian church), Newly Accredited Ministers (NAMs), and Recognised Local Ministers (RLMs). As a practical theologian, I teach ministerial practice, mission, evangelism, apologetics, preaching and world religions. I’m also the Moderator of the National Baptist Union Council, a critical role in facilitating the strategic direction of the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

2. What is something you wished more people knew about you? 

Despite being a practical theologian, educator, moderator, etc., I’m a passionate evangelist! I love sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and seeing lives being transformed.

3. Tell us about a Christian book (not the Bible) that has been influential upon your faith.

Oh, it is so difficult to choose one book! A book that had the most significant impact on my life is The Imitation of Christ by Thomas Kempis. I started reading this book in my early teens and since then it had a profound impact on my life.

4. Why is your role within IVP and why it is important?

I am one of the members of the IVP Publishing Board. The Board has the responsibility to ensure that all books published are in line with its statement of faith. I firmly believe and commend each of the eleven points of the statement of faith. As a member of the Board, I add my voice in offering theological and practical advice to the editorial team.

 5. How are you uniquely equipped to support IVP?

Throughout my journey in Christian ministry, I have been blessed with diverse experiences that have shaped my understanding and equipped me to serve in various capacities. From theological and ministerial education to pastoral ministry, evangelism and mission, youth work, and racial justice etc. In addition, I have also delved into developing partnerships, fundraising, marketing, advertising, data analysis, statistics, senior management, and administration. This extensive background enables me to offer theological and practical insights to the editorial team. Another uniqueness is my perspective as a GEM (Global Ethnic Majority) academic. This perspective allows me to bring a nuanced and balanced approach to theology and ministry, embracing the richness of diverse cultures and voices within the body of Christ.

6. What excites you most about IVP’s work / What are your hopes for the future of IVP?

IVP plays a vital and indispensable role in shaping and nurturing the local church today. Its unwavering commitment to evangelical principles aligns perfectly with my own deeply held theological beliefs. Through its diverse range of series, authors and the two main imprints, IVP successfully disseminates sound theological materials to cater to the diverse needs of different groups within the church. My desire is for IVP to continue to bless the church and academia with books and resources that are firmly rooted in biblical truth, theological depth, and an unwavering commitment to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.