Out of all the things in Dr. Jacob Shatzer’s unique office, the thing that stands out the most is the boat. Slightly hidden in the upper right hand corner of an office flooded with books and an old, wooden stand-up desk is a miniature crafted boat.
“I won that for being the top scoring student in Iowa at the 2003 United States Academic Decathlon,” Shatzer said through a sheepish grin. He stares at the boat for a second and laughs at himself. It’s easily the nerdiest thing in the room but by far the most interesting due to its intricate pieces and white frame.
“It’s probably my favorite piece of office decor,” he said, affirming to me that he is just as cool as I thought he’d be.
Shatzer is the associate dean of theology and missions at Union, and his calm, witty nature is praised in the department. But despite his infamous success in 2003 that earned him a glorious piece of art to display in the office, Shatzer has something else to share with the community around him: a book.
His newest book Transhumanism and The Image of God was officially released on April 25. The book discusses how transhumanism, the belief that humanity can evolve beyond its current physical limitations through technology and science, is something to be carefully considered by Christians.
Writing has always been enjoyable for Shatzer, and he talks nostalgically about where it all began, specifically when we was younger.
“I guess my earliest memories of enjoying writing were in high school,” he said, stroking his scruffy black beard. “I had AP English class that had timed essays, and I actually enjoyed those.”
It’s fascinating to hear someone so brilliant talk about his career with such poise and humility. It’s obvious that Shatzer does everything out of love for the community around him. Union is better for it. Yet writing a book with so much depth and implication for our generation weighs heavily on Shatzer still. He remarks that there must be intentional reasoning behind his writing.
“For someone like me, as I continue through graduate work and teaching, I’ve always felt a responsibility to take what I’ve learned and work on it in a way that’s faithful to the Lord and that serves the church,” said Shatzer.
From high school to Union, Shatzer has imparted godly wisdom to countless students. His newest book hopes to take a serious look at our future and the theological impact of it.
“These are issues Christians need to think more about. This book hopefully helps serve that end.”
Feature Photo by Kristi McMurry Woody
