Stephen O. Presley is Director of Education and Engagement at the CRCD as well as a Senior Fellow for Religion and Public Life. Presley leads the CRCD’s initiatives that offer a positive vision of religion for the public square.
He has a history of research and teaching in historical theology and the intersection between the great thinkers of the Christian tradition (especially the early church) and the Christian spiritual life. Presley is the author of numerous books, articles, and essays, including Cultural Sanctification (Eerdmans) and Biblical Theology in the Life of the Early Church (Baker Academic, 2025). He earned his undergraduate degree at Baylor University, a Th.M from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.
In addition to his work at CRCD, Presley serves as Associate Professor of Church History at Southern Seminary and previously served the seminary as the Director of Research Doctoral Studies. He is active in local church ministry and has served the church in various positions.