The Esau McCaulley Podcast Black and Evangelical?
Aug 7, 2025
Dr. Vince Bacote, a theologian and director at Wheaton College, joins to explore what it means to be Black and evangelical. He discusses the complexities and historical challenges that shape this identity, including the struggle of integrating into predominantly white evangelical spaces. The conversation highlights the silenced experiences of Black voices within these communities, the impact of racial issues, and the need for a deeper understanding of faith informed by cultural identity. Bacote's documentary sheds light on this often-overlooked narrative.
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Episode notes
Black Church And Evangelical Overlap
- The documentary argues Black Christians often fit evangelical commitments even if they don't use the label.
- Black church theology shares core evangelical beliefs while adding social concern born from history.
Primitive Baptist Formation
- Esau McCaulley describes growing up in a Primitive Baptist Black church with unique practices like monthly foot washing.
- He emphasizes that his black church formation shapes his identity more than the evangelical label would.
The Four D's Of Engagement
- Vince Bacote outlines four emotional phases Black Christians can experience in evangelical spaces: delight, dissonance, distress, and decision.
- These phases progress from initial excitement to a choice about continued engagement or leaving.
