Free Indeed: Heroes of Black Christian History

by Mark Sidwell

Free Indeed by Mark Sidwell is a history of black American church leaders. In addition to the challenges that normally confront heralds of the gospel, African American Christians also faced slavery and racial discrimination. Their deep love for Christ and their fellow believers and their passion for the lost made them dauntless soldiers for the Lord, proclaiming the way of salvation and the equality of all men and women in God’s sight. This tribute to these heroes of black Christian history resonates with faith and heroism from the Great Awakening to the Civil War and its aftermath to the early Civil Rights Movement.

Genres: Biography, History

Paperback

First published January 7, 1995

Reviews

[Chuck Bonadies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sidwell presents fourteen short biographies on Black American church leaders. I found the book to be both challenging and encouraging.

CB

[David Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Free Indeed contains 14 mini-biographies on heroes of Black Chrisitan history. I appreciated the read because I knew only one of two of these brothers prior to reading this book. My historical knowledge of Christian development with the US was widened. Each chapter provides you with additional resources if you want to gain more insight into the life of one of the individuals. Reading about some of the experiences these men had to go through due to slavery and segregation was saddening and disheartening. And yet, these men were persistent, courageous, and demonstrative of what it means to be a faithful disciple for Christ through thick and thin. I also appreciated that the book covers a wide range of Christian traditions and denominations: Baptist, Methodist, AME, Presbyterian, Holiness Movement.

It is a rather simple read. Most chapters are 10-15 pages and are written for young readers. I believe it would be a beneficial read for your children as a way to engage history, race, and Christianity.

[Gprugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. A good quick summary of the lives of 14 important black Christian figures. I appreciate how Sidwell focuses on men of faith, who cared deeply about the souls of others and not only social reform (as important as social reform was). I found some of these bios more encouraging and challenging than others.

[Daniel Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that I highly recommend!

[W. Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book. Learn things you had no idea about. God greatly using black men

[Doug Payne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sidwell writes 14 biographical surveys of leaders in black Christian history. Inspiring stories of faith and courage from those who faced challenges I will never have to experience.