Library / The Convergence Conference…

Shepherd of the Addict (Plenary Session 1)

Our host, Milyce Pipkin, welcomes Davi C. Ribeiro Lin and Timothy Allen as they offer theological and medical perspectives on how we can best pastor and guide those struggling with addiction.

In "Shepherd of the Addict," we will remind ourselves of the reality that every individual, regardless of their struggles, is created in the image of God and therefore retains an inherent dignity even amidst the shadows of addiction. This session beckons us to acknowledge that addiction, in its myriad of forms, is not a far-off affliction but a mirror reflecting our collective vulnerabilities. We are each entangles in our own dependencies, visible or hidden, reminding us of our shared humanity. In embracing this humanity, we recognize that the person grappling with addiction is not defined by their struggle but is worthy of our most profound compassion and understanding. By adopting the role of shepherd, we commit to empathetically guiding anyone in a season of addiction, honoring the sacred worth of every individual as they navigate their path to healing.

Darrell L. Bock

Dr. Bock has earned recognition as a Humboldt Scholar (Tübingen University in Germany), is the author or editor of over 45 books, including well-regarded commentaries on Luke and Acts and studies of the historical Jesus, and works in cultural engagement as host of the seminary’s Table Podcast. He was president of the Evangelical Theological Society (ETS) from 2000–2001, has served as a consulting editor for Christianity Today, and serves on the boards of Wheaton College, Chosen People Ministries, the Hope Center, Christians in Public Service, and the Institute for Global Engagement. His articles appear in leading publications, and he often is an expert for the media on NT issues. Dr. Bock has been a New York Times best-selling author in nonfiction; serves as a staff consultant for Bent Tree Fellowship Church in Carrollton, TX; and is elder emeritus at Trinity Fellowship Church in Dallas. When traveling overseas, he will tune into the current game involving his favorite teams from Houston—live—even in the wee hours of the morning. Married for 49 years to Sally, he is a proud father of two daughters and a son and is also a grandfather of five.

Davi C. Ribeiro Lin

Dr. Davi C. Ribeiro Lin is currently Assistant Professor of Pastoral Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Hamilton, Massachusetts. He is trained in practical theology, counseling psychology, and the pastoral perspective of Augustine of Hippo. While pastoring, he intentionally journeyed with and provided care and counseling to men addicted to pornography. Dr. Ribeiro Lin’s publications and presentations, both in English and Portuguese, have also included theology-psychology dialogue, theological anthropology, spirituality, theological therapy in Augustine’s Confessions, and Latin American perspectives. Dr. Ribeiro Lin, a Taiwanese-Brazilian, is married to Aline, whom he met in music school when they were children, and has a son named Bernardo.

Timothy Allen

Dr. Timothy Allen is board-certified in Family Medicine and Addiction Medicine and completed a fellowship in Primary Care Psychiatry. He and his wife (Nikki Allen, MD) own an independent medical practice in Cudahy, Wisconsin, that focuses on the underserved. They have four children and three grandchildren.  In 2020, they planted a church in Cudahy, where Timothy serves as senior pastor.

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