Dr Phillip Porter Lecturer in New Testament

  • Henderson Campus


Phillip lectures in New Testament Studies, within the School of Theology, teaching across the full range of New Testament literature. Phillip was a Teaching Fellow in New Testament at the University of Otago (2023-2024). He brings extensive pastoral practice to the role, together with missionary experience in Vietnam. Phillip studied New Testment (undergraduate and post-graduate), at the University of Otago, completing a PhD in the parables of Jesus under the supervision of Prof Paul Trebilco (University of Otago) and Prof Klyne Snodgrass (Northpark Seminary, Chicago).


Summary of key research

Phillip’s research is focused on the parables of Jesus, and more generally on the use of metaphorical and indeterminate speech forms, whether in the OT prophets, the NT gospels, or elsewhere. He is particularly interested in the rhetorical strategies Jesus employs in his parables to appeal to enemies and to transform the thinking of his followers.

Most recent publications

  • “The Parable of the Talents (Matt 25:14–30): Preparing Jesus’ Disciples to Lead the Worldwide Expansion of the Mission of Jesus.” Novum Testamentum 63 (2021): 159–176.


Personal Bio

Phillip began work in the world of corporate finance, before moving into pastoral ministry (Prebyterian and Baptist churches), and missionary service (YWAM). His ministry passions include teaching, preaching, and helping people find their way into God's calling on their lives. He is passionate about theological study as a means to bring depth and integrity to Christian life, leadership and ministry. He is excited to be lecturing at Laidlaw College, helping equip people to preach from the full breadth of Scripture, and helping to raise up another generation of church leaders and planters, evangelists and missionaries. Phillip is married to Siobhan and has five children.


Research areas of specialisation

  • Parables of Jesus
  • Symbol, imagery and metaphor in the New Testament
  • Rhetorical strategies in the teaching of Jesus


Qualifications & Awards

  • PhD (New Testament), University of Otago, 2019.
  • PGDipTheol - Postgraduate Diploma in Theology with Distinction, University of Otago, 2016.
  • BTh - Bachelor of Theology (New Testament), University of Otago, 2008.
  • GradDip - Diploma in Banking Studies with Distinction, Massey University, 1993.
  • BBS- Bachelor of Business Studies (Finance), Massey University, 1990.