Dr. Lane E. Davis brings a diverse background in religious studies, teaching experience, and scholarly contributions to his role as Assistant Professor of Church History and United Methodist Studies and Director of United Methodist Studies at Christian Theological Seminary. Holding a PhD in History of the Christian Tradition from Southern Methodist University, Dr. Davis has dedicated his academic career to exploring the intersections of theology, history, and religious practice. He also holds a Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School (Cambridge, MA) and a BA in Religion and Philosophy from Huntingdon College (Montgomery, AL).
As Director of United Methodist Studies, Dr. Davis oversees the education and preparation of students affiliated with the United Methodist Church, while also providing theological support to UMC pastors in the Indiana Conference
Prior to joining CTS, Dr. Davis served as an Assistant Professor of Religion at Huntingdon College, where he taught courses ranging from Introduction to Old Testament to American Church History. His commitment to pedagogical excellence is evident in his extensive teaching experience at various institutions, including Southern Methodist University and Vanderbilt Divinity School.
Dr. Davis’s scholarly work encompasses peer-reviewed articles, essays, book reviews, and forthcoming publications, reflecting his expertise in Methodist history, theology, and polity. He is a respected member of professional organizations including the American Academy of Religion and the Wesleyan Theological Society, contributing to the broader academic discourse in religious studies.
In addition to his academic role, Dr. Davis is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and a member of the Tennessee Annual Conference. He has served in a variety of pastoral and leadership roles in congregations in Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, and Alabama.
Dr. Davis’s appointment to the faculty at CTS reflects his deep commitment to theological education and his desire to prepare future leaders within the United Methodist tradition. His interdisciplinary approach, teaching excellence, and scholarly contributions make him a valuable addition to the CTS community.
