Member Reviews
This was a really good book. So much information to dwell in. Basically the gist of it is that marginalized Christians have a unique role in Christianity. Christian people of color have a unique relationship with God because of the obstacles we face. The book also exposes the problems of white Christianity. The author uses Scripture, personal stories, and other mediums to support his thoughts. This book couldn’t have come at a perfect time when this country is facing its own race issues.
A good, quick read for those wanting to dip their toes into how racial reconciliation and restoration within Christianity can look. Edwards writes in an accessible manner, drawing on both his personal experience and historical examples to make his point. He makes his theological points easy to understand, not requiring a seminarian's understanding of the Bible to follow the points he makes. It's a good overview and introduction to how racism affects Christian communities, particular American Evangelicals. He relies heavily on turning MLK's white-washed history on his head, but rarely lifts up other revolutionary voices and points. He also critiques communism at one point, but the evils of capitalism and its incompatibility with Christianity were not mentioned. For someone who wants to understand how Christians have a mandate to fight for social justice, this is a great book to start with.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a powerful read!
Edwards highlights how social justice, particularly regarding race and class, are highlighted in the Bible but lacking in many churches. Using verses and anecdotes Edwards talks about how the Bible calls for Christians to push the status quo and protect those with less power, whether they're immigrants or people of color or those who are not as wealthy.
There is not a lot of how to be more inclusive included in this book, but it lays the case for why churches in particular should be standing up to injustice and marginalization. Similarly sexuality is notably absent in this book that talks about the importance of building up communities that have traditionally be marginalized even within the church.
Overall it's a thought provoking read that explains why any Christian should be doing their part to change power dynamics and support movements like Black Lives Matter.