Jesse Wheeler is projects manager at the Institute of Middle East Studies, based in Mansourieh, Lebanon, at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary.
Jesse’s articles that have appeared on EthicsDaily.com are available here.
1. Where did you grow up?
I grew up on the central coast of California, approximately halfway between Los Angeles and the Bay Area in the unknown town of Nipomo.
2. What is your favorite Bible verse, book or story? Why?
Isaiah 58.
This text was paradigm shifting for me as a result of the way it reveals so much about the heart of our God, in that he would actively reject his own worship until the needs of those most vulnerable had been addressed, and also the manner by which it convicts us, as the community of faith, of our own hypocrisy.
3. What is your favorite movie? Why?
I’m not sure I have a favorite movie, but “Doctor Who” takes the trophy for favorite television show.
High quality television has taken a dark, cynical turn in recent years, yet “Doctor Who” is consistently life affirming.
4. Who are three of the people you admire?
William Wilberforce, Martin Luther King Jr. and J. Dudley Woodberry (professor of Islamic studies and dean emeritus of the School of Intercultural Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary).
5. What is one little known fact about yourself?
I just might cut off my left foot for a plate of chicken tikka masala.