Introducing Black Theology: Three Crucial Questions for the Evangelical Church

by Bruce L. Fields

What is black theology and what does it have to say to the evangelical church, both now and in the future? These are the questions addressed by Bruce Fields, a well-respected African American theologian, in this newest addition to the 3 Crucial Questions series. Black theology developed as a response to racism in the church. As such, it seeks to make sense of the sociohistorical experience of African Americans in light of their Christian confession, validating the conviction that their struggle for justice is consistent with the gospel. Beginning with a statement that defines black theology as a theology of liberation, Fields discusses the sources, hermeneutics, and tasks of the black theologian. He then challenges the church to allow its theology to be formed by black theology’s confrontational ministry, believing this will lead to forgiveness and reconciliation for both the oppressed and the oppressor. He also encourages black theologians to remain within certain biblical and traditional parameters in order to maintain their influence. This short, accessible introduction to black theology draws upon history, hermeneutics, culture, and Scripture to create a dialogue of respect and reconciliation between blacks and whites within the evangelical church.

Genres: Theology, Christian, Nonfiction

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2001

About the author

Bruce Fields (PhD, Marquette University) is Professor of Faith and Culture at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

Prior to coming to Trinity, Dr. Fields was on staff for six years with Campus Crusade for Christ. There he served in a variety of roles including Athletes in Action, the Indian ministry in Colorado, and the staff of the University of Michigan. He has also taught courses on New Testament and theology at Trinity College. His areas of expertise include the Epistle to the Philippians and liberation and black theology.

Dr. Fields and his wife, Mary Ellen, live with their four children in Chicago. In his spare time, he enjoys playing basketball, tennis, and the guitar. He also coaches basketball and baseball.

Reviews

[Sylvia Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thought provoking book for all and a crucial book for those who consider themselves part of the black theological community or the white evangelical community with an acute aim to gain knowledge of and respect for the other with a joint end goal of reconciliation

[Claude · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short in length but long on insight, this book is a good starting place for people looking to understand Black Theology, glean from the movement's strengths, and think honestly about its weaknesses. Fields does an admirable job condensing the unified yet various approaches and hermeneutics of Black Theology (Cone, Ray, Roberts, etc.) and its constructs. Field is honest yet charitable in his assessment of Black Theology and the insights Black Theology offers the evangelical church. I think in the hands of a less humble and thoughtful writer, this book would have easily been a theological-polemical throw down -- which would rob those in differing theological camps the opportunity to learn from Black Theology's best insights. With Fields, it's all respectful and helpful overview and assessment. The sections on racism and the social contexts of theological formulation are especially money. Highly recommend this, though it may be best to read alongside the source material he engages with if you have the time for that.

[Smooth Via · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Introducing Black Theology" serves as a decent enough primer on black and liberation theology. The book provides a basic overview of key concepts and historical contexts, making it accessible for those new to the subject. However, it becomes apparent that Fields has a clear agenda to protect evangelical theology throughout the text. This bias somewhat undermines the exploration of black theology's more radical and transformative aspects.

The book's tone and approach left me questioning who the intended audience might be. It feels like it could have been required reading for one of Fields' classes at Trinity, rather than a comprehensive resource for a broader audience. Overall, while it offers some valuable insights, the book's limitations and evident bias make it less impactful than it could have been.

[Brandon Caples · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bruce L. Fields successfully distills complex theological concepts while weaving in compelling historical narratives. One key strength of this book is its potential to serve as a bridge between Black and white evangelical communities. Fields' balanced approach avoids demonizing evangelicalism while firmly holding it accountable for past and present failures to address systemic racism.

[Josh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A helpful introduction to Black theology, though short enough that its treatment of many subjects felt brief. It was also hard to distinguish between descriptive and evaluative stances in the text.

[Josh · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read! Highly recommended!

[Colin Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here lays an very interesting development that builds on classical black theology... I hear you ask, what is Black Theology? This book certainly falls back on, yes wait for it, James Cone's writings.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

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