Truth Over Tribe: Christian Takes on Culture, News & Politics The Evangelical Legacy of Slavery with Sean McGever
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Mar 5, 2025 Sean McGever, historian and author of "Ownership: The Evangelical Legacy of Slavery," discusses the uncomfortable truths about evangelical founders like Jonathan Edwards, John Wesley, and George Whitefield. He explores their blind spots regarding slavery, the justification of their actions in the context of the 18th century, and the evolving church perspectives on moral issues. McGever emphasizes the need for self-reflection on historical moral failures and encourages a nuanced understanding of church leaders, their legacies, and ongoing cultural blind spots.
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Shifting Views on Slavery
- In the 18th century, societal and religious views on slavery underwent a huge shift.
- The church and society at large initially accepted slavery as a norm, but questions and challenges arose by the end of the century.
Enslaved People's Perspective
- While those in power within the church accepted slavery, enslaved individuals, especially Christians, did not.
- Their perspective is crucial to understand the full historical context.
Edwards and Slavery
- Jonathan Edwards, a prominent theologian, grew up in a slave-owning family and continued the practice as an adult.
- He purchased an enslaved woman named Venus with a significant portion of his pastoral salary.
