The Divided Mind of the Black Church
Theology, Piety, and Public Witness
By Raphael G. Warnock | Publisher: NYU Press
About the book
A revealing look at the identity and mission of the Black church
What is the true nature and mission of the church? Is its proper Christian purpose to save souls, or to transform the social order? This question is especially fraught when the church is one built by an enslaved people and formed, from its beginning, at the center of an oppressed community’s fight for personhood and freedom. Such is the central tension in the identity and mission of the Black church in the United States.
For decades the Black church and Black theology have held each other at arm’s length. Black theology has emphasized the role of Christian faith in addressing racism and other forms of oppression, arguing that Jesus urged his disciples to seek the freedom of all peoples. Meanwhile, the Black church, even when focused on social concerns, has often emphasized personal piety rather than social protest. With the rising influence of white evangelicalism, biblical fundamentalism, and the prosperity gospel, the divide has become even more pronounced.
In The Divided Mind of the Black Church, Raphael G. Warnock, Senior Pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., traces the historical significance of the rise and development of Black theology as an important conversation partner for the Black church. Calling for honest dialogue between Black and womanist theologians and Black pastors, this fresh theological treatment demands a new look at the church’s essential mission.
Editions of The Divided Mind of the Black Church
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781479806003
- AltFormat
- ISBN 9780814794463
Read an Excerpt
A revealing look at the identity and mission of the Black church
What is the true nature and mission of the church? Is its proper Christian purpose to save souls, or to transform the social order? This question is especially fraught when the church is one built by an enslaved people and formed, from its beginning, at the center of an oppressed community’s fight for personhood and freedom. Such is the central tension in the identity and mission of the Black church in the United States.
For decades the Black church and Black theology have held each other at arm’s length. Black theology has emphasized the role of Christian faith in addressing racism and other forms of oppression, arguing that Jesus urged his disciples to seek the freedom of all peoples. Meanwhile, the Black church, even when focused on social concerns, has often emphasized personal piety rather than social protest. With the rising influence of white evangelicalism, biblical fundamentalism, and the prosperity gospel, the divide has become even more pronounced.
In The Divided Mind of the Black Church, Raphael G. Warnock, Senior Pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., traces the historical significance of the rise and development of Black theology as an important conversation partner for the Black church. Calling for honest dialogue between Black and womanist theologians and Black pastors, this fresh theological treatment demands a new look at the church’s essential mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Divided Mind of the Black Church about?
A revealing look at the identity and mission of the Black church
What is the true nature and mission of the church? Is its proper Christian purpose to save souls, or to transform the social order? This question is especially fraught when the church is one built by an enslaved people and formed, from its beginning, at the center of an oppressed community’s fight for personhood and freedom. Such is the central tension in the identity and mission of the Black church in the United States.
For decades the Black church and Black theology have held each other at arm’s length. Black theology has emphasized the role of Christian faith in addressing racism and other forms of oppression, arguing that Jesus urged his disciples to seek the freedom of all peoples. Meanwhile, the Black church, even when focused on social concerns, has often emphasized personal piety rather than social protest. With the rising influence of white evangelicalism, biblical fundamentalism, and the prosperity gospel, the divide has become even more pronounced.
In The Divided Mind of the Black Church, Raphael G. Warnock, Senior Pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., traces the historical significance of the rise and development of Black theology as an important conversation partner for the Black church. Calling for honest dialogue between Black and womanist theologians and Black pastors, this fresh theological treatment demands a new look at the church’s essential mission.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Divided Mind of the Black Church?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Christianity > Christian Churches, denominations, groups
Where can I read a sample of The Divided Mind of the Black Church?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781479806003
How long is The Divided Mind of the Black Church and how many pages does it have?
The Divided Mind of the Black Church has 276 page(s)
Is The Divided Mind of the Black Church part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series Religion, Race, and Ethnicity
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Divided Mind of the Black Church?
Raphael G. Warnock
Who is the Publisher of the book The Divided Mind of the Black Church?
NYU Press
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Divided Mind of the Black Church is available as paperback(ISBN 9781479806003) and altformat(ISBN 9780814794463)
Where can I buy The Divided Mind of the Black Church online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy The Divided Mind of the Black Church?