A History of the Black Church in America: Dr. Walter Strickland
Nov 4, 2024
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In this discussion, Dr. Walter R. Strickland II, a theologian and pastor, delves into the intricate history of Black Christianity in America. He explores the transformative power of spirituality amidst oppression, highlighting the influence of Martin Luther King Sr. and the emergence of the Black social gospel. The conversation touches on the Black church's vital role in social justice and community empowerment, as well as the historical struggles of race and gender within this context. Strickland also reflects on the evolution of the Black church and its educational impact on future generations.
Dr. Walter Strickland emphasizes the significance of understanding the theological roots of African-American Christianity to address gaps in theological education.
The conversation challenges the narrative that African Christianity was solely imposed by slave masters, highlighting its pre-existing presence in African culture.
The evolution of the Black church post-emancipation fostered independence, dignity, and agency, laying the groundwork for future social justice movements.
Deep dives
Overview of the Exiles in Babylon Conference
The Exiles in Babylon conference will be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from April 3rd to 5th, 2025. It will cover crucial topics such as the intersection of the gospel and race in light of events like George Floyd's murder, and the inclusion of transgender individuals in church communities. The conference will also feature discussions on social justice within the gospel context, presenting varying perspectives in a dialogical format regarding the evangelical church's societal impact. Attendees can look forward to engaging breakout sessions and events surrounding the conference, including a pre-conference and an after-party, emphasizing an opportunity for community fellowship and exploration.
Dr. Walter Strickland's Insights
Dr. Walter Strickland, an assistant professor at the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and an author, discusses his recently released two-volume series titled 'Swing Low: A History of Black Christianity in the United States.' He began the project years ago when his dissertation's short introduction expanded significantly due to his growing interest in documenting the Black Church’s history. Strickland aims to fill gaps in theological education concerning Black figures often overlooked in evangelical narratives, underscoring the importance of understanding the theological roots of African-American Christianity.
Five Theological Anchors of the Black Church
Strickland introduces five theological concepts he considers essential for understanding the evolution of theology in the African-American church. These anchors include 'Big God,' emphasizing God's sovereignty; 'Jesus,' focusing on Christ as central to faith; and the dual emphasis on both 'conversion' and 'walking in the spirit.' Additionally, the concepts of 'the good book' referring to the Bible and 'deliverance' highlight the historic struggles and hopes of the Black community. Strickland suggests that these elements shaped a unique theological narrative that has evolved through time, connected deeply to the lived experiences of its practitioners.
The Historical Perspective on Slavery and Faith
Strickland addresses the origins of Christianity among African slaves, arguing they brought some understanding of faith with them, rather than it solely being imposed by slave masters. He references the Ethiopian eunuch in the Bible and historical accounts of Africans practicing their faith prior to enslavement. This perspective challenges the narrative that African Christianity emerged only as a tool of oppression, asserting that faith was a pre-existing aspect of African culture. Strickland contends that many slaves interacted with the Bible and its messages of deliverance, forging a faith that spoke to their circumstances and aspirations for freedom.
Impact of the Black Church in the Era of Jim Crow
The conversation highlights how, post-emancipation, the Black church evolved significantly with the establishment of independent denominations, enabling African Americans to worship with dignity and agency. Following the end of Reconstruction, the rise of Jim Crow laws forced a separation from white church communities, leading to a flourishing of Black denominations and educational institutions. Leaders of the Black church during this time, such as Charles Octavius Booth, actively engaged in theological writing that addressed spiritual and social challenges faced by their communities. These developments laid the groundwork for the vigorous social justice movements that emerged mid-20th century, drawing from the resilience and faith rooted in the experiences of African Americans.
Dr. Walter R. Strickland II (PhD, University of Aberdeen) assistant professor of systematic and contextual theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and is the author of several books including Swing Low volume 1 & volume 2. Dr. Strickland is a pastor at Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, NC and is also a co-host of White Horse Inn. He lives in the Raleigh area with his wife and children.
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