Bringing Black Voices in the Church to Light

Evangelicalism needs the wisdom and experience of African American Christians. Seeking out theological dialogue partners of different races and ethnic backgrounds is a challenge, but it’s necessary work. Too often voices from these diverse contexts are suppressed or excluded in favor of voices from the dominant culture. With these voices speaking loudly, a full picture of God and his Kingdom becomes clear.

In 2017, Walter R. Strickland II and Lexham Press brought Plain Theology for Plain People by Charles Octavius Boothe back into print for the first time since its original publication in 1890. By reading Plain Theology for Plain People we receive a glimpse into late-nineteenth-century black life, rooted in Scripture and divine wisdom.

In this new interview with Strickland, he discusses who Charles Octavius Boothe was and why he was important.

By engaging with a historically muted perspective, Christian perspectives will be illuminated with timeless wisdom.

Strickland also discusses a few more influential thought-leaders in the African American church tradition.

We want to read more widely and to help you read more widely, too. This week, Faithlife has worked with Lexham Press and other publisher partners to give away or heavily reduce the prices on resources by African American pastors, teachers, and authors for readers who want to encounter a different perspective or see through another’s eyes.

It is our prayer that all of our users will find in these resources biblical wisdom, encouragement, conviction, and a powerful reminder that in our great and beautiful diversity we are together brothers and sisters and the very family of God.