Oneness Embraced: Through the Eyes of Tony Evans

by Tony Evans

Black/white relations in the culture at large and in the church in particular continue to be a stain on America's respectable reputation. The church has clearly failed and must seek to function by God's kingdom perspective. In this legacy message, Tony Evans seeks to promote a biblical understanding of the kingdom foundation of oneness by detailing why we don't have it, what we need to do to get it, and what it will look like when we live it. Fully encompassing areas of unity, history, culture, the church and social justice, Evans looks to the scriptures for the balance between righteousness and justice that is crucial for applying in this generation and in training the next.  A full section on black church history provides a background and understanding that has often been neglected. Recalling experiences in his own evangelical journey, Evans shares kingdom minded approaches for biblical justice and social restoration. To better glorify God and help heal the persistent racial divide, all church members would do well to read and learn from Oneness Embraced .

Genres: Race, Nonfiction, Christian, Faith, Social Issues, Theology, Religion

352 pages, Hardcover

First published January 27, 2011

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Anthony Tyrone "Tony" Evans Sr. is an American evangelical pastor, speaker, author, and widely syndicated radio and television broadcaster in the United States. Between 1976 and 2024, Evans served as senior pastor at the over-9,500-member Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas.

Reviews

[Linda Leigh Hargrove · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover of Oneness Embraced positions the book as a fresh look at reconciliation, the kingdom, and justice. The book, written by Dr. Tony Evans senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, is indeed a fresh look at these topics but it is so much more. Within its pages, Dr. Evans has produced a book true to his customary hard-hitting, deep-thinking style.

In the mid 1990s I heard Dr. Evans speak on racial reconciliation to a standing-room-only crowd in Raleigh, North Carolina. That was back when racial reconciliation was all church folks could talk about. What Dr. Evans shared that night was inspirational and radical. Standing shoulder to shoulder with thousands of others, I knew that God had used this man to speak directly to me about my role in bridge building and social justice. Oneness Embraced skillfully presents yet another layer of the message he delivered that night so many years ago.

Read the rest of my review on 17Seeds.

[Ernesto Alaniz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good read for me. It confronted me, educated me, inspired me. Some may say "why the emphasis on the Black Church's experience?" I found it to humanize the issue. The history gives a context and a way. Not an excuse, but a reason. As a Mexican male, this book helped me to see the black experience and to be more caring and sensitive to it. Thanks for the work, Mr. Evans.

[Moody Publicity]

"Adopting God's kingdom agenda for the unity, purity, mission, and ministry of the church by necessity drives a child of God to embrace the essential oneness of mutual righteousness God has achieved for every believer through Christ. Our obedience is tested in our responsibility to experience and maintain that unity. Oneness Embraced will both convict and encourage you in the how to's as you seek to shrink the distance between righteousness and justice."

-Dr. Mark L. Bailey, president, Dallas Theological Seminary

"When I think of the ministry of Tony Evans three things come to mind. I think of balance, impact, and unashamedly biblically rooted. That is Oneness Embraced. Dr. Evans shows balance between the gospel and social justice in an evangelical world that often forces us to choose between them. His writing is clear and has impact through powerful exposition and illustration. Unashamedly biblically rooted because he challenges us to think afresh about race and reconciliation. This is a needed word and a crucial book.

-Darrell Bock, research professor of NT Studies, Dallas Theological Seminary

"As police chief of the City of Dallas, the challenges I face reducing crime and public disorder have, in many cases, the lack of personal responsibility at their root . . . Biblical justice, as described in this fascinating book clearly is the prescription for many societal ills that play themselves out in numerous communities in the country and the world.

-David O. Brown, police chief, city of Dallas

Tony Evans is well known as one of the most prominent speakers for evangelical Christianity anywhere in the world. What many people do not know is that he is one of the foremost theologians and thinkers when it comes to interpreting what is happening in our society from a biblical perspective. In this book, he addresses one of the most important concerns of contemporary Christendom-reconciliation of people in Christ Jesus. Tony's own personal story will do much to bolster his claim to be an authority on this subject. Tony Evans is worth reading. I give him thumbs-up!

-Tony Campolo, PhD, professor emeritus, Eastern University

Kingdom-minded churches are those that hold the gospel of Jesus Christ in the highest esteem, while pursuing justice, restoration, and reconciliation. I know of no person better qualified to write about kingdom-minded churches than Dr. Tony Evans.

-Jim Daly, president, Focus on the Family

For the last thirteen years I've not only been a student of Dr. Evans but also a spiritual son. Once again the revelation of the teacher takes the pupil into a deeper understanding of why the battle continues. May God use this book to help us become the solution and no longer the problem.

-Kirk Franklin, recording artist

Unity in the body of Christ is an essential biblical principle given by Jesus Himself. Dr. Tony Evans writes powerfully and convincingly in bringing us all together to advance the kingdom of Christ. This is a must read for Christians who desire to live in obedience to the heart of the gospel, which is to love unconditionally in the power of His cross and resurrection.

-Jack Graham, pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church

Dr. Evans's book caused me to reflect on how much we have allowed the world to dictate how Christians should embrace one another-in oneness. Oneness Embraced is a must read for those who desire to have a kingdom approach to restoration and reconciliation of our distorted social order. I personally encourage all serious-minded Christians to place this book as a top priority for understanding the dynamics of Oneness in Christ.

-Dr. Martin E. Hawkins, president, Southern Bible Institute

One of the blind spots in the history of the American church is the area of race relations. In Oneness Embraced Tony Evans reminds us that the church cannot remain silent about the racial injustices in our country.-Richard Stearns, president World Vision, U.S., and author of The Hole in Our GospelI am a raving fan of Christ's work in our world and have a lot of confidence in the words of my friend Jesus who promised that He will build His church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it! Unfortunately, we tend to complicate the path to victory by speedbumping the forward progress of the kingdom with our fallen ways and perspectives. Bravo for my friend Tony Evans who has taken the biblical bulldozer to the obstacles and smoothed the way for us. Since being "one" is the unanswered prayer on Jesus' heart, this is a very important read!-Joe Stowell, president, Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids,MichiganI believe history will record that Dr. Tony Evans is one of the most prolific and significant theologians of the 21st Century. In a rare synthesis of the black experience,white evangelicalism, and biblical exposition Dr. Evans confronts and challenges one of the most pervasive and recurring multidimensional issues of contemporary society: racism. Dr. Evans brings the reader to the intersection of intellectual stimulation, spiritual revelation, and personal examination.-Kenneth C. Ulmer, DMin, PhD, president, The King's University and Presiding Bishop, Macedonia International Bible FellowshipFor the past thirty years I have had a passion for promoting biblical reconciliation among the people of God. Diversity and unity discussions among the people of God often are based upon secular tolerance, which lacks biblical moral discernment, or a blind denial of our lack of biblical diversity among us. Dr. Evans makes a great contribution to the church by laying a theological foundation and challenging the church to a faith versus feeling discussion of biblical oneness. Addressing the African-American church history is brilliant decision in Dr. Evans' call for oneness within the evangelical community. He lifts truth above ethnic, denominational and political groups and seeks to deal honestly with historical failures and current blindness present among each group. Dr. Evans call the church to action in embracing oneness from the perspective that Christ is not taking sides but taking over. A timely contribution to a national dilemma.-Dr. A. CharlesWare, president, Crossroads Bible CollegeIn many parts of our country it is difficult to tell the difference between Christians and non-Christians when it comes to the issue of race. Thank you, Tony, for your clear understanding that the body of Christ should act and think differently.-Dolphus Weary, Mission MississippiThis well-researched and biblically sound book unashamedly examines the issue of black/white relations in the culture at large and the church in particular. Tony Evans helps us see that if we are going to have victory over sin in our world and redeem our culture, we must be about reconciliation and unity. This book is a must read for individuals both inside and outside the church.-Bryant Wright, president of the Southern Baptist Convention and senior pastor, Johnson Ferry Baptist Church, Marietta, GAIf ever there were a topic lost in the mists of misunderstanding and miscommunication, it is racial reconciliation. Tony Evans argues powerfully that a biblical view of reconciliation must have as its end and aim the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom. Writing with clarity and passion,Tony calls the people of God to a new commitment that will enable a more fruitful and powerful witness before a watching world.-Frank Wright, PhD, president and CEO, National Religious Broadcasters
Rarely have I read a book with which I so deeply identify. I found myself filled with hope and at the same time broken and ashamed at the inability of the church to draw upon the power of the gospel to transcend our cultural and racial barriers. Tony paints a compelling picture of the kingdom and a kingdom agenda that reflects the supernatural unity of the body of Christ. Oneness Embraced is a must read!-Dr. Crawford W. Loritts, Jr., Author, Speaker, Radio Host, Senior pastor, Fellowship Bible Church, Roswell, GAThis book is a real gift to the whole church, a compelling call for racial reconciliation centered in the truths of the gospel. No one is more qualified to write on this topic than Tony Evans, reared in the "Black Church," but also connected to the "White Church." Given Tony's personal journey and deep commitment to the church of Jesus Christ, you hold in your hands a readable book that probes how we can better understand one another and celebrate the unity Jesus prayed for. Do yourself and your church a favor and read this book!-Dr. ErwinW. Lutzer, senior pastor, The Moody ChurchDr. Evans has chosen to frankly and theologically engage the racial issue at a sociopolitical fermenting kairotic moment in the church and society. We of the African-American evangelical community applaud and stand with him in his proclamation for the transformation and reconciliation of America's racial equation along the lines of biblical justice and social restoration through the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ.-Rev. Dr.Walter Arthur McCray, president, National Black Evangelical AssociationIt is sad, yet true, that race among many evangelicals inAmerica is the structural underpinning of policy regarding justice for the hungry, the naked, the imprisoned, and the sick.The church needs to address this issue. By dealing with the ideology of blacks and whites in depth,Dr. Evans concludes with the necessity of both sides working toward unification. He brings both correction and direction, and provides action steps to bring about healing in both the church and the community. I highly recommend this book as an instructional resource for the body of Christ, especially pastors and leaders.-Pastor Ray McMillian, president, Race to UnityOneness Embraced strikes a chord at the heart of one of the preeminent themes of Scripture. Dr. Evans in his usual style makes God's truth clear to everyone no matter what age or stage of life. This compelling reading could be used by God to help us reflect the heart of God in our relationships.-Dr. Larry Mercer, president, Capital Bible SeminaryThis book awakens many of the experiences I encountered as an African-American male growing-up in Birmingham,Alabama, in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, and Dr. Evans challenges the reader to recognize the realities both past and present in our nation, culture, and church. Truly, we are at an un-restful gap in Christendom in regards to racial reconciliation that has hindered our progressive appeal to advance God's kingdom agenda. The eyes of the future are looking back on us. What will be their verdict?-Dr.Maxie Miller Jr., director, African-American Ministries Division, Florida Baptist ConventionThe church needs bridge-builders.At a time when our nation is facing division on all fronts, this new work on unity from Dr.Tony Evans has the potential of transforming communities. It provides a strong biblical basis for oneness by addressing the causes and cures for our cultural divide.Oneness Embraced is must reading for all who are serious about bringing people together. I can't think of anyone who is more equipped to lead the charge than my friend Dr. Evans.-James Robison, president, LIFE Outreach International, FortWorth, TexasMy siblings and I have had the privilege of watching our father promote, encourage, and develop a philosophy of ministry that has impacted people from all walks of life. As his children, our view of the global community of faith has been expanded primarily because of his cross-cultural delivery of a gospel that knows no racial boundaries. Our families, our friendships, and our ministries are better because of it.-Priscilla Shirer, Bible teacher and authorTony Evans is biblically based, historically accurate, intellectually integral, and personally inspiring. It is an analysis of our past problems and a prescription for our future endeavors concerning race. If the American church embraces this book, race relations will be transformed in the twenty-first century.-Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries Jr., senior pastor, First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, NJ

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oneness Embraced is the book I had been looking for regarding how the church can find a balance between the Gospel and Social Justice. Dr. Tony Evans demonstrates how these two are not mutually exclusive. As a Christian who believes the Gospel and eternity is preeminent, I never want to neglect the here-and-now. This book gives you practical teaching on how to stay true to the Gospel while still working towards community transformation through concrete actions. Oneness Embraced has given me a framework to simultaneously exalt Christ and improve the community.

Additionally, Dr. Evans' presentation of Racial Reconcilation is comprehensive, balanced, and practical. I love how he debunks the myth of Black inferiority and demonstrates how Black people have always been in the plan of God. Also, Dr. Evans gives practical ideas of how Blacks and Whites in America can be reconciled. His teaching on this topic has blessed me tremendously.

If you want to learn how Race, Culture, Reconcilation, and Biblical Justice are integrated in Christ, get this book!

[David Squires · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this in advance of an online church bookclub, that is exploring the topics and themes of this book; we hope to explore the sin of racism in the American evangelical church. I was happy to find the book both on several library sites that I belong to and also on the audio-book app Chirp. It took me only a few days to listen to it but I may go back to read more carefully those passages that cite Biblical references that I was not sure of. The chapters in which Dr. Evans was somewhat auto-biographical were the most sobering for me. As someone who has straddled the high fence of race, for more than 50 years, I was encouraged that at least some Americans are reading and thinking about this book and others like it.

[William "Spig" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid book that asks great questions and looks at solutions to race issues not from a political or even individual level but a faith community level. Exposed a lot of hypocrisy for me and evangelical white church. I’ve seen and I lived in the Navy the beauty of being blessed by others experiences and cultures. I need to bring up the hard discussions. Swept under the rug or paying lip service weakens the church’s impact. Highly recommended.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent read for anyone interested in racial reconciliation from a Christian perspective. I think it would be especially helpful for those who are on the more conservative end of the spectrum both politically and religiously. The middle section on a historical view of the Black church was especially helpful and informative for me.

[Mike Mears · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony Evans lays out the case for reconciliation for all through this book. He concentrates on the African American experience which he knows well, but this book can be translated to all. He’s not easy on the White Culture in America nor does he leave out criticism for others. The last three chapters alone are worth this book. Hope others will read it.

[Jacob Frantz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read for all Christians especially white evangelicals
Tony lays out black church history and so many relevant topics for racial reconciliation especially is these fractious times we need true healing that can only come from God Through Jesus Christ.

[Stephanie Moore]

As much as I enjoyed reading this book I think I would prefer it as an audio book. Would recommend to those already interested in the subject.

[Tunde · Rating 5 out of 5]

No book and i say it again, no book has done proper justice to fallen race relation like this book. The best on race and what the church needs to do.

[Jason Keel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Combining history, theology, missiology, social science, and praxis "Oneness Embraced" is an excellent beginning for a thoughtful exploration of how to bring about racial reconciliation in our day.

[Peter Reynolds · Rating 3 out of 5]

a solid staple

[LMG · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be a compelling book on race and Christianity. I so appreciated Dr Evans perspective on the history of slavery and religion in America, as well as his personal experiences. He did an outstanding job of explaining both the underlying issues that continue to cause a divide in both black and white evangelical congregations.

This is an important, balanced and moving book.

[Ben Zajdel]

Tony Evans wears many hats in his latest book--historian, theologian, and psychologist. Evans weaves together all these aspects of thought in order to discuss one of our nation's most complex subjects: racial reconciliation.

The book is divided into three sections. First, Evans takes a look at how the Bible defines unity, or oneness. His examples are clear and concise, a display of theology from a master of the craft. The second section consists of a history of the black church in America. Students of history won't be disappointed. Finally, Evans presents a plan to put the idea of oneness into action in local communities.
Of interesting note is Evans' personal journey that is discussed in the book. This book is a thoughtful discourse on racial issues, with plenty of relatable stories.

The book is a high level theological work, but written on a level that anyone can understand. It's a rare author who can talk about high ideas but not speak over people's heads. This a much needed book on a volatile topic, and Tony Evans was the perfect man to write it.

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book on "racial" reconciliation (I hate the word "race" as it implies that there are multiple races outside of the human race), and equally good on biblical justice. Especially appreciative that Evans' approach is not merely an individual approach, but one that sees the local church as the locus of mission/kingdom activity. His personal testimony in the book was really great to hear.

[Dustin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tony Evans is definitely a man of God. He speaks the truth, holds others accountable and has a passion for helping us become Christ-like. We need way more Tony Evans' & Bill Cosbys and way less Sharptons & Jacksons.

[Stephen Matlock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just started reading this.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really, really thorough and helpful. A must-read in understanding the history, current state, and future of race & Christianity.

[Rita Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've just started reading this book and I love it. I don't want to skim through this work.

[Yaa Mens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!