Derek Thomas

Originally from Wales, Derek Thomas is an Alliance Council member and the John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi. After pastoring for 17 years in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Dr. Thomas came to the USA in 1996 where, in addition to his work at the seminary, he serves as the minister of teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson.

In addition to serving in the pastorate, Derek has served as editor of the Evangelical Presbyterian, a monthly denominational magazine. A graduate of RTS in 1978, he gained a Ph.D. from the University of Wales, Lampeter in Calvin's preaching on the book of Job. He has written or edited 15 books, including Calvin's Teaching on Job: Proclaiming the Incomprehensible God (Mentor), Making the Most of Your Devotional Life (Evangelical Press, based on the Ascent Psalms), and Praying the Saviors Way, (Christian Focus, based on the Lords Prayer). He has contributed commentaries to a variety of series, including Lets Study Revelation (Banner of Truth) and Lets Study Galatians (Banner of Truth), God Delivers: Isaiah Simply Explained (Evangelical Press), The Storm Breaks: Job Simply Explained (Evangelical Press), and God Strengthens: Ezekiel Simply Explained (Evangelical Press). He also co-edited, Give Praise to God: A Vision for Reforming Worship (P&R).

His interests include the music of Richard Wagner, Anton Bruckner and Gustav Mahler as well as a passion for good coffee. He has been married to his wife, Rosemary, for almost 30 years. They have two adult children, Ellen and Owen.