Book: Liberating Black Theology: The Bible and the Black Experience in America

Just published: Anthony B. Bradley's new book "Liberating Black Theology: The Bible and the Black Experience in America" (Crossway, February 2010):

www.crossway.org/product/9781433511479

Publisher's description: "When the beliefs of Barack Obama's former pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, assumed the spotlight during the 2008 presidential campaign, the influence of black liberation theology became hotly debated not just within theological circles but across cultural lines. How many of today's African-American congregations – and how many Americans in general – have been shaped by its view of blacks as perpetual victims of white oppression?

"In this interdisciplinary, biblical critique of the black experience in America, Anthony Bradley introduces audiences to black liberation theology and its spiritual and social impact. He starts with James Cone's proposition that the 'victim' mind-set is inherent within black consciousness. Bradley then explores how such biblical misinterpretation has historically hindered black churches in addressing the diverse issues of their communities and prevented adherents from experiencing the freedoms of the gospel. Yet Liberating Black Theology does more than consider the ramifications of this belief system; it suggests an alternate approach to the black experience that can truly liberate all Christ-followers."

Endorsements: "Anthony Bradley's analysis of black liberation theology is by far the best thing that I have read on the subject. [...] By covering such figures as James Cone, Cornell West, and Jeremiah Wright, we see all of the nuances involved with their approaches to the subject. His explanation of victimology, Marxism, and aberrant Christian doctrine make a noxious mix of ideas that would make any true Christian wary of anything even approaching black liberation theology." (Craig Vincent Mitchell, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary)

"I have read a number of books which purport to explain, define, or critique black liberation theology, but Liberating Black Theology is the easiest to understand. This is because Dr. Bradley unapologetically maintains a biblical, orthodox perspective while being sympathetic to the issues and concerns of black liberation theologians." (Wy Plummer, African American Ministries Coordinator, Mission to North America, Presbyterian Church in America)

Anthony B. Bradley is Visiting Professor of Theology at The King's College, New York, and a Research Fellow at the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty.