Straight White Male is a collection of essays from contributing writers who lack various types of privilege, including straight, Black man William J. Barber II, straight, white woman Melissa Florer-Bixler, queer, nonbinary Latinx Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, and gay, white man Matthias Roberts. The essays offer insights into how particular types and combinations of privilege (and the lack thereof) shape the way we move through the world.

The book aims to help Christian men who identify as straight and white to examine their privilege and power in society, and to use them for good. The book is divided into three parts: the first part explores the concepts of privilege, oppression, and intersectionality; the second part examines how privilege affects various aspects of life, such as relationships, work, church, and culture; and the third part offers practical steps and resources for deconstructing privilege and living with integrity. The book is written in a conversational and accessible style, with personal stories, biblical references, and discussion questions. The author acknowledges his own journey of learning and unlearning and invites the readers to join him in the process.

The book is a valuable resource for straight white male Christians who want to grow in their awareness and understanding of social justice issues, and to align their lives with God's vision of justice and love. The book challenges the readers to confront their biases, assumptions, and blind spots, and to take responsibility for their actions and choices. The book also encourages the readers to listen to and learn from the experiences and perspectives of marginalized groups, such as women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, and people with disabilities. The book does not offer easy answers or quick fixes but rather invites the readers to embark on a lifelong journey of transformation and solidarity.

While I believe this book had good intentions and had good points. I found parts difficult to read because the author was making theoretical arguments that was over my head.

Straight White Male is written from diverse perspectives focusing on white male privilege from personal experiences. The writing is honest and transparent giving a glimpse into the lives, and struggles of each contributor.
Since this is written first by a pastor, I paid particular attention to the interpretation of scripture, and Jesus’s intent toward those marginalized during his life.
I agree confession and transformation are key to any person’s growth as a Christian and as a person in general. In order to do this a person must examine themselves honestly, remove mindsets that hinder growth, and as a Christian choose to change those things that don’t align with Jesus’s teaching and example.
Do LGBTQ+ people need to be treated with love and dignity? Yes. Do BIPOC deserve to be treated with love and dignity? Yes. However, don’t all people despite their label deserve the same? I believe they do. Labeling people, even straight white males can lead us down a slippery slope. The key is found in relationship with each other.
Jesus was clear that scripture was authoritative and there for guidance, instruction, and catalyst for change. However, we must be careful not to change scripture to fit the narrative, or use it to make others feel good in a way not in line with its intent.
If a Christian believes all scripture is God given, then in context all scripture must be viewed in the same way no matter who becomes uncomfortable. In that uncomfortableness we begin to see the things within ourselves we are called to change. Change requires accountability, not just to one another but more importantly to God himself.
I believe that people cannot be forced by legislation, political, or social pressure to change, but can only truly be changed individually by the transformative power of Christ alone.
Do I agree with everything in this book? No, but I do believe it is a book that challenges us to examine ourselves and apply a standard we alone cannot achieve. If nothing else it is a conversation starter and points us toward relationship with people we might not normally come to know. Knowledge brings understanding, which might bring us to a place of reconciliation and healing.
I was given a copy courtesy of Westminster John Knox Press without obligation.

I am a Christian straight white male. And this book is for me and everyone like me.

Chris Furr writes an honest look at what it means to be a SWM (my term, not his), and what Christians should and can do about it. He includes a Straight section, a White section, and a Male section, each one ending with a story from a person who doesn't share that identity (and one essay from a person who doesn't share any of them). Furr provides detailed research and thoughtful Bible study, but most importantly, he provides stories - his own and those of other people.

Following in Furr's footsteps, I'm not going to critique this book or point out its theological or Biblical flaws. (Although IMHO, there are very few of them). Because the main point for us SWMs is to listen. To hear those stories and those facts without walking away and without being defensive or globalizing. I'm skeptical, but I really, really hope the men who need to read this book the most will do exactly that kind of listening. Because all of us, no matter what identity God gave us (or we claimed), need that kind of world.