Phillip W. Sell, PhD

Phillip W. Sell is associate professor of Pastoral Theology and the director of Supervised Ministries at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and has been a faculty member since 1998.

Dr. Sell was a pastor for almost two decades prior to coming to Trinity. He has been a director of Christian Education in Iowa, an executive pastor in Southern California and a senior pastor in Texas. This exposure to the life of the local church informs and enriches all that he teaches.

Dr. Sell earned his PhD at the University of Iowa in educational philosophy and a ThM at Dallas Theological Seminary, focusing on biblical and systematic theology. His undergraduate degree is from Wheaton College, focusing primarily on sociology, psychology, and philosophy.

His current academic interests primarily focus on philosophy and strategy in ministry, small group ministry, pastoral leadership, discipleship and mentoring, assessment for ministry, and adult ministry. He has contributed articles to journals such as the Christian Education Journal and Christian Educator Today. Dr. Sell is also on advisory boards for various ministries.

Dr. Sell is married to Judy, who grew up in Haiti as a missionary kid. They reside in Wildwood and have two children. Dr. Sell loves outdoor activities such as gardening and hiking, but he is especially passionate about bird-watching.