Faculty Feature: Dr. Brant M. Himes - Faith, Scholarship, and Innovation in Action

At Los Angeles Pacific University, our faculty play an essential role in shaping the academic, spiritual, and professional journeys of our students. This season, we are honored to spotlight the work of Dr. Brant M. Himes, Senior Lecturer and Professor in Humanities, whose scholarship, global engagement, and innovative contributions represent the heart of LAPU’s mission.

Dr. Himes’ work this year spans international research, film consultancy, AI-powered theological education, and a deep ongoing commitment to helping students discover who God is and who He is calling them to be. His story reflects the blend of academic excellence and spiritual devotion that defines the LAPU community.

A Global Perspective: Presenting Research in São Paulo, Brazil

This spring, Dr. Himes traveled to São Paulo, Brazil to present a research paper titled “Dietrich Bonhoeffer as a Neo-Calvinist Pathway to Evangelical Engagement.” His work was featured at A Public Gospel: Evangelicals, Neo-Calvinists, and Society, an international conference held at Mackenzie University.

The event brought together theologians, ministers, and scholars from across Latin America, North America, and Europe, creating a rich opportunity to explore how theology is influencing the development of the church in Brazil and beyond.

“Conferences like this encourage my research and writing,” Dr. Himes shared. “I enjoy connecting with friends and colleagues from all over the world.”

His time in São Paulo reflects LAPU’s emphasis on globally informed Christian scholarship work rooted in tradition, yet deeply engaged with the challenges and questions of today.

Bringing Bonhoeffer to Life: Consulting for the New Angel Studios Film

One of Dr. Himes’ most meaningful projects this year was his collaboration with Angel Studios on their recent Bonhoeffer film. Drawing from nearly two decades of scholarship on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and theology, Dr. Himes helped create resources that would make Bonhoeffer’s story accessible to a wider audience.

He collaborated on:

• An online Bonhoeffer course for individuals and churches

• A 30-day devotional titled When Christ Calls: A Journey with Dietrich Bonhoeffer

• Several podcast interviews discussing the film and its themes

The work offered Dr. Himes a new appreciation for the complexities of translating a theologian’s life into film.

“When I first watched a preview copy of the film, I was nervous about how Bonhoeffer would be portrayed,” he said. “After spending almost 20 years studying him, I was amazed at how closely the film aligned with the Bonhoeffer I pictured in my mind’s eye.”

His contributions not only shaped the resources surrounding the film but also enriched an international conversation about discipleship, conviction, and courage.

Innovating Faith Instruction: Developing an AI-Powered Bible Study Assistant

In partnership with the American Bible Society, Dr. Himes and a cross-disciplinary LAPU team are developing an AI-powered Bible study assistant designed to support students in inductive Bible study. The tool will guide readers through observing, interpreting, and applying Scripture, helping them engage in deeper and more personalized study.

The project reflects a unique intersection of technology, faith, and education, an area where LAPU continues to lead.

This innovation is supported by:

• Jacob Hanshaw, Data Scientist

• George Hanshaw, Director of DLS

• Belen McDaniel, Grants Office

• The Faith, Life, and Learning Committee

• Reg Codrington, Instructor & LAPU Chaplain

The assistant will be piloted in select BIBL 230 courses beginning Spring 2026.

“Our hope is that students will discover how studying the Bible can become more accessible, engaging, and meaningful for their lives,” Dr. Himes noted.

Teaching With Purpose: Helping Students Discover Their Calling

Ultimately, Dr. Himes’ work is rooted in his passion for integrating faith, scholarship, and calling. Whether he is teaching in the classroom, writing, or participating in global theological conversations, his goal remains consistent: to help students understand what it means to trust and follow Jesus with their whole lives.“God works in and through all of life’s opportunities, challenges, hopes, and tragedies,” he shared. “I want my students to know that God is big enough to walk with them through whatever life brings.”

For Dr. Himes, teaching is a privilege — an opportunity to walk alongside students from diverse backgrounds and help them grow academically, spiritually, and personally.

A Lasting Impact at LAPU

Dr. Brant Himes exemplifies what it means to be a scholar, a teacher, and a servant leader. His work this year reflects LAPU’s mission to integrate faith, learning, and purpose in ways that meaningfully impact the world.

From international research to innovative digital tools, and from film consultancy to student mentorship, his contributions continue to strengthen and inspire the LAPU community.