Member Reviews

A consideration of matters of racial division in Christianity primarily in terms of who lives where and how that influences how the faith is practices.

The author speaks of his own experiences and story as a person of color. As might be expected he speaks regarding the segregation of churches and understands it in terms of its geographical expression. He attempts to establish a theology of place as well as a desire to understand a local context so as to minister within it. He then explores the various issues which come up in an urban context and how Christians and the church can respond: divisions, gentrification, a sense of calling in the city, etc. He then points the way forward in terms of how Christians and churches can reconcile with each other as well as with their communities. He often focuses on the practical side of things.

There is much good here. It is important for anyone who wishes to work in a given environment to understand that environment, how it got to be where it is, and to find a way to minister within that environment so as to reflect its diversity in a way which honors the Lord Jesus.

The author is a bit too high on the strength of cities; the Scriptures have special commendation for the pastoral life and looks a bit askance at the city and "civilization." The book likely has too many buzzwords and buzz concepts for the liking of some people. Nevertheless, if you are at all interested in ministry in an urban context, or regarding racial reconciliation in the church, a book worth exploring.

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