The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity

by Shai Linne

In the sixteenth century, the church faced a doctrinal crisis. Today, the crisis is race. We all know that racial unity is important. But what’s the right way to approach it? How can Christians of different ethnicities pursue unity in an environment that is so highly charged and full of landmines on all sides? In The New Reformation , Christian hip-hop artist Shai Linne shows how the gospel applies to the pursuit of ethnic unity. When it comes to ethnicity, Christians today have to fight against two idolatry and apathy. Idolatry makes ethnicity ultimate, while apathy tends to ignore it altogether. But there is a third way, the way of the Bible. Shai explains how ethnicity—the biblical word for what we mean by “race”—exists for God’s glory. Drawing from his experience as an artist-theologian, church planter, and pastor, Shai will help you chart a new way forward in addressing the critical question of what it means for people of all ethnicities to be the one people of God.

Genres: Christian, Race, Theology, Nonfiction, Christian Non Fiction, Christian Living, Biography

240 pages, Paperback

Published May 18, 2021

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A breath of fresh air. This book will challenge folks on both “sides” of the race conversation. I also suspect it will be tricky to critique, since it is so thoroughly scriptural. Lots of Bible interaction. While the subject matter is pretty meat-and-potatoes, the storytelling sparkles with Shai’s personal touch.

I hope “The New Reformation” will have a consensus-building effect, returning us to first principles and charting a vision that transcends partisan divides. Honestly, if Reformed evangelicals can’t rally around this book—not to resolve all our differences, but to clarify our starting points—then the gig is up.

[Todd Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian, you should read this book. If you have not read a book on racial reconciliation then definitely begin with this one. Here is why:
1. Shai Linne is very theological. He roots his responses and applications in the gospel.
2. Linne is very generous with those with whom he disagrees. He has had feet planted in both the black church and the Reformed white church. He understands the responses of people in both. If you are thinking it as you read his book, he has heard it - and he understands what and why you are thinking it.
3. Linne tells his own story and puts flesh on what for some can feel very abstract and distant. You will empathize with him as you read and I think that will go a long way toward understanding the issues better.
Look for a Food Trucks in Babylon interview with Shai Linne when the book releases.

[Glenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly biblical, Christ-exalting, poignant, convicting, and hopeful. I finished with tears in my eyes. If you're looking for a book on racial reconciliation within the church, this is the one I will recommend over and over again.

[Jared · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linne’s writing, like his music, consistently speaks to both the intellect and the affections.

I deeply appreciated his chapter that takes time to define ethnic and racial sin biblically.

As I read about his friend Ben, I was convicted about ways I’ve been a poor listener.

[Jeremy Mueller · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the subtitle indicates, Shai’s book is an exercise rooted in hope. His aim is not to throw fuel on the fire of conversations surrounding race, critical race theory, and social justice, but rather to help Christians put humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearance in love into practice in these conversations….to mix charity with fierce biblical convictions….to marry gentleness with strong defense of the truth. In Shai’s words, “We don’t have the right to cast off the fruit of the Spirit in the name of standing for truth” (193-4). Why does the tone and tenor of our conversations on race matter? Because “the unity of the church is one of the means that God uses to convince unbelievers that the God of the Bible is real” (162). Our unity as brothers and sisters in Christ is not arbitrary; it is a necessary consequence of those who belong to Christ and it displays the power of the gospel to a watching world. Paul reminds the Ephesian believers that they need to *be eager* to maintain the unity that the Holy Spirit created for them (Eph 4:3) because he knows that Satan loves to threaten the unity of Christ’s church by causing Christians to bite and devour one another. If you’re looking to Shai’s book as a resource for understanding all of the nuances surrounding the race conversation, you won’t find it there (though you will find some). But if you’re looking for a resource to equip you with the Christ-like means by which you can begin the conversation about race and issues of justice with other Christians, Shai’s book will be an invaluable resource. It is bathed in Scripture, it is dripping with charity, and it is highly pastoral. Read this book before you bite and devour others over issues that you feel so strongly about. Not only will you be benefited, the witness of Christ’s church will be benefited.

[Brian Pate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down. Part memoir, part theology of ethnicity, this book was riveting from start to finish. Shai Linne raises an uncomfortable question: Why are ethnic sins a blindspot among Reformed theologians? Is it the theology itself? No, but it might have something to do with the social class of its adherents throughout the centuries. The author imagines a NEW Reformation where a diverse group of believers apply the principles of the Reformation to the issue of ethnicity and ethnic sins. “The key to addressing ethnic disunity in the church is the proper application of the doctrine of justification by faith alone” (p. 138).

[Leah Batchelor · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is incredible how many angles SL takes in this book while maintaining flow and cohesion. He weaves scripture in so helpfully and provides helpful examples. Also, 10/10 recommend going the audiobook route when the author/narrator is a musician.

[Caleb Batchelor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good. Shai doesn’t say everything (and I don’t know how anyone could), but if we applied everything he does say, think it’d feel like revival.

[Bryce Beale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, yes, yes, yes. And also, yes.

This is the book on race (or to use Shai's preferred term, "ethnicity") in the local church among Reformed evangelicals in the year 2021. It is reasonable, peaceable, full of good fruits (James 3:17). And it is supported thoroughly by Scripture, rich theology, and the experience of a man who has navigated and is today navigating unity in a multiethnic church.

Shai begins with his own story, including one unpleasant run-in with the police in Philly. But the bulk of Shai's story is about how he encountered Christ (through a female Christian friend in his partying friend group), how he encountered Reformed theology (partly through First Presbyterian under the preaching of Boice and Ryken), and how his love for hip hop carried over into the rich theological expression of Christian hip hop. Shai then addresses the tensions he has felt as a black Reformed Christian. How is it that he still reads and enjoys Jonathan Edwards, for example, despite the fact that he owned black slaves? Or why is it that Reformed theology has addressed racism so little in its history? He concludes that these blindspots among the Reformed are not the natural product of Reformed theology, but are likely due to certain social factors.

In part three of the book, Shai presents a kind of biblical theology of ethnicity, tracing it from the Fall, to Abraham, to the gospel and justification. And in the last part of the book, he concludes by relating ethnicity and current ethnic and political tensions to the church today.

I could almost weep with gratitude for what God has provided the church through this simple, humble book. For a long time, the heated discussions about ethnicity in Reformed evangelicalism have happened via blog articles, YouTube videos, and brief social media posts. I am thankful we are moving now into book-length treatments of the subject. And I am more thankful than I can say that our brother Shai has contributed one such treatment, with a humble firmness and biblical mindedness worthy of the subject matter. Soli Deo gloria.

[Imani · Rating 5 out of 5]

I heard Shai speak on race*and the church and it was one of the most helpful talks ever. It was so great to read the book because parts of his talk we're like exact sounds bytes from the book. I can tell he's thought about how ethnicity plays a role in the church today and he's had to deal with a lot of real things as a black man in America and in the church. I'm thankful for his words and hope more people read it!

[Billy Osei · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get the audio. Amazing listen through. Shai linne - so inspirational. The new reformation - old and young, black and white, sitting together and unpacking the Bible, loving one another and agreeing in the Lord.

[Ian Woodall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read that focuses exclusively on the topic of ethnic unity.

From my understanding, there are many who draw lines in the sand and label others as heretics for their stance (or lack there-of) on the issue of race. It can be exciting to read and side with those people. There may even be a place for a firm line when the gospel is distorted. Shai Linne's book is not that. He gives his perspective on the issue (though he does not tackle CRT directly) and calls believers to fight for unity around the gospel.

Shai Linne shares his experience as an African American and includes his testimony of when he became a believer and what he experienced in the church. He gives an overview of racial injustice in America's past (specifically police brutality since Martin Luther King, Jr.), and he addresses the semitism of Luther and the fact that Jonathan Edwards owned slaves. He then walked through the storyline of Scripture and the gospel. He argues that a right understanding of justification is the key to ethnic unity. In the last section of the book he walks through multiple Scripture passages in which the church is commanded to maintain the unity they have in Christ. From the examples we see that Christians do at times disagree, but they are to fight for unity. The title of the book is discussed at the end. Shai is not arguing for a change in the content of the reformation. Instead, he is arguing more people must be included. The doctrines of the reformation must be embraced by people of all ethnicities for God-honoring unity will come from holding firmly to the gospel and living it out. Part of his application of the argument means truth is devoured by believers of all ethnicities regardless of the ethnicity of the author.

It was helpful to hear Shai's story. He loves Jesus and knows the gospel is the solution, but he knows the unity is difficult to obtain. He encourages believers to bear one another's burdens in these areas and to not give up on the fight. He keeps the gospel central and continually calls for patience and endurance.

Some favorite quotes:
1. Regarding assuming the best - "For Black Christians, that may mean fighting against the impulse to assume that the White brother or sister who disagrees with you does so only because of their 'racism.' For White Christians, it may mean fighting against the impulse to assume that Black brothers and sisters who are concerned about ethnic justice have abandoned the gospel." (194)
2. "Ethnic diversity is not virtuous in and of itself. Hell is also a very diverse place. The most glorious expression of ethnic diversity is a redeemed humanity united around the beauty of Jesus Christ, whose blood ransomed people for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation." (210)

[Cap · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a dearth of material within Reformed circles on the topic of ethnic unity. As such, The New Reformation is a timely and welcome resource to fill the void. Rooted in Scripture and the rich traditions of the Reformation, Shai Linne’s book calls the church back to the core tenets of our faith in order to properly address the racial issues of our day.

Linne’s two primary concerns are “the unity of the church and the church’s witness to the world” (15). Linne also explains the genesis of his book’s title: “[T]he Protestant Reformation wasn’t an end, but a crucial point in a continuing journey. As our forebears put it, ‘the church is always in need of being reformed according to the Word of God.’ . . . As I look over both the historical and present-day landscape regarding ethnic unity in the church, it’s plain as day to see. We need a new Reformation” (98, 99).

The book is divided into four sections:

1. MY STORY: This first section is largely autobiographical, detailing Linne’s conversion to Christianity and subsequent involvement in “lyrical theology”—what he has described elsewhere as “using artful lyricism to provoke the study and knowledge of God, particularly in the context of hip-hop culture.”

2. BACKSTORY: Here, Linne walks his readers through snippets of church history, with a particular emphasis on the Reformation, evaluating how our understanding of the past can help us better understand and address a topic like racism.

3. HIS STORY: The third section develops a Scriptural understanding of “race,” tracing instances of ethnic disunity through the pages of Scripture, as well as the gospel implications for resolving ethnic sins.

4. OUR STORY: This fourth and final section examines some Scriptural principles and practices that can lead us toward greater unity, even if and when we don’t fully agree with each other.

Every time Linne mentions “race” or “racism” in the book, he puts those terms in quotation marks, emphasizing that he prefers the more Biblically-accurate term “ethnicity.” “As Christians,” he says, “it’s important for us to avoid allowing the world to dictate our agenda and how we talk about things” (107). Rather than using current terminology and categorizations, he organizes racial issues into six Scripturally-defined ethnic sins. (I would argue that two of his categories overlap, but that’s a minor quibble.)

The New Reformation studiously avoids the tendency to elevate racial issues to a level of equal importance with the gospel itself—what we might call a paradigm of “the gospel AND…” The danger in such an approach, simply put, is legalism: adding to the simplicity and sufficiency of the gospel. In contrast, Linne makes a case for “the gospel, THEREFORE…” (even though he doesn’t use that specific phraseology). This paradigm doesn’t mean ethnic unity is a minor issue—on the contrary, it flows directly out of the gospel itself—but we cannot question another’s right standing with God simply because they don’t fight racism like we think they should.

If it isn’t apparent yet, I should note that Linne’s work is primarily theological, not political. There’s nothing inherently wrong with writing a political book, even a blatantly controversial one. But Linne’s doctrinal approach does, I think, better position his book to enhance ecclesiastical unity.

Of course, a book on a topic like this can’t not be controversial—to a degree, at least. And as the member of a minority culture in the United States, Linne has experiences and presuppositions that some readers might find objectionable. Nevertheless, he bends over backwards to avoid petty controversies and uncharitable assumptions about those who may disagree with him on peripherals.

There is no denying the soundness of Linne’s Scriptural exegesis. Because of his book’s strong Scriptural foundation, charitable tone, and humble posture, The New Reformation is poised to benefit a large demographic. Sometimes that benefit might not feel good; it might feel more uncomfortable than anything else. Indeed, it challenges us in our preconceptions. It challenges us to bear with others in patience and love. It challenges us with gospel-infused exhortations and admonitions. Ultimately, it points us to the King of all nations and ethnicities—he in whose presence we all are laid bare, to whom we all must give an account, and through whom we all can find hope in the fight for ethnic unity.

UPDATE: apologist Neil Shenvi has posted a short review of the book, in which he says he “strongly appreciate[s]” what Linne has done: “In recent years, innumerable books have been written by evangelical Christians on issues of race, racism, and diversity. Few that I’ve read are as solidly biblical, gracious, and unifying as Shai Linne’s The New Reformation. . . . I suspect that Linne and I do indeed differ on several issues... [but] I emphatically do not want the church’s unity to be grounded on political consensus rather than on shared doctrinal commitments.”

[Ashley Hoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most biblical book I have ever read on race, racism, and the church. Shai Linne constantly points to the gospel and is just so faithful and wise. Absolute must read.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Highly recommend.

[Michael Stilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a cross-cultural worker, I rejoice in the good news that Christ died for all ethnic groups without distinction and therefore he has a gloriously multi-ethnic people. At the same time, Shai helped me see the ugliness of ethnic-pride and favoritism in my heart.

[Jason · Rating 1 out of 5]

Is it Justification by Faith or is the church still reformed by all Five Solas?

I love this brother. I read this book and spent over a month considering its contents. It is curious to me that the solution of ethnic disunity is a proper application of Justification by faith alone, without the additional Solas of the Reformation.

For instance, Justification by Grace through Faith brings instant unity to all who stand equally guilty before the Lord (Rom 3:23; Gal 3:10), prohibits anyone from achieving God's favor in any way (Rom 9:16; Titus 3:5), and imputes our wicked lives to Christ who bore the full penalty due us (2 Cor 5:21). It is Justification by grace through Faith that levels the playing field, making us all equal -since "there is none who seeks for God" (Rom 3:11).

Shai says the solution is "a proper application of justification by faith alone." The book is titled The New Reformation. Curious to me that he leaves out the other 4 Solas, which as a whole, continues to reform the church. When I say the church, I mean scripture recognizes that not everyone who identifies externally or associates themself with the church is a true believer (Matt 7:21-23; 13:24-30; Jude 4). There are false teachers who deliberately seek to threaten the church from within (Matt 7:15; Mark 13:22; 2 Pet 2:1; 1 Jn 4:1; Jude 3-4; Acts 20:29-30; Gal 1:6-9; Titus 1:16).

The churches that tolerate false teaching are "apostate" (Rev 2:20-24; 3:1-4). By contrast, the true church submits to the authority of God's word and upholds the truth of His gospel. This is the church that is still being reformed today by Sola Scriptura. But, leave out Sola Scriptura from the anecdote to any problem and the church is subject to an adding to, subtraction from, or an editing of the only source that holds the key to helping us with our deepest problems, and opens the church up to critical academics.

Sola Gratia is a big one to leave out because justification is not exclusively through faith alone (as Shai stipulated), but by divine grace alone. The implications of which destroy all finger-pointing and shaming, and manipulation to earn favor with man, since that person has been cloaked in the flawless righteousness of Christ. It's really hard to find fault with the church as a whole when the infinitely perfect righteousness of Christ has been imputed to the account of each true believer.
By leaving out Sola Gloria it's easier to focus in on self-preoccupation and the repeated failures of others.

Shai doesn't exclude Sola Fide which keeps the church from introducing a requirement for (or can let slip in) works that negates salvation -the means by which anyone has ever been made right with God. His solution, after all, is a "proper application" of justification by faith alone. But, unlike the Sola Fide of the biblical Reformation, Shai includes "an exhortation for us to acknowledge our own ethnic sins," (pg 147) with lots of quotes by Tim Keller, and, a call for us "to call out the ethnic sins of our own group" (pg 149).

Neither is it the heart of the gospel to embrace guilt of a group's sins, it is also in the opposite direction of salvation by faith. It's the soul that sins that shall die (Ezekiel 18:4). For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast (Eph 2:8-9).

He explains what "The New Reformation" should look like anecdotally on page 212-214. Some of the things he mentions are Christians that "should be as familiar with Jackie-Hill-Perry" (who holds the same position on sexuality as Revoice) "as Isaac Watts." Shai explains that The new Reformation should look like "gospel-saturated, theologically astute women...building up the body of Christ." I had to ask myself, is this not already happening? Or is he speaking about women pastors?? He doesn't clarify, but it's something he envisions. "The New Reformation," he says, "is systematic and biblical theologies by African and Asian pastors and scholars included in the curriculums of seminaries and Bible colleges in the US and the UK." Does he mean they should include Cone, or, should they be included by academic merit? He doesn't say. It's "caring for the...marginalized without regard to how the surrounding secular society categorizes those particular concerns politically," which Shai explains he learned to articulate from reading Tim Keller. The New Reformation "is diverse," he says, "...Republican and Democrat..." (pg 214)

At some point in the book Shai explains how he used to be part of a predominantly White church but is now part of a church where he goes on to give specific percentages of how many blacks, whites, and brown people are in the congregation. Someone did a headcount. The black category is dominant. But, so unhelpful, as, we're all shades of brown. He refers to blacks, whites, and brown people as different ethnicities, which is almost often not the case -most of us are Americans. Which leads to an over-arching error of the whole book. For Christians, our unity reaches past cultural differences. Our unity is not something we manufacture, but something that exists supernaturally as we are indwelt by the same Spirit. We ARE ONE in Christ, which is just as mind-blowing today as it would have been for the church at Ephesus, Jew and Gentile standing side by side before God IN Jesus. Just making distinctions among us by the shade of our skin can't exist in a mind that embraces Colossians 3:5-17. One thought will reject the other, both cannot exist simultaneously in the same mind.

As Christians, we don't have unique struggles, we share the same struggles (1 Cor 10:13) and are able to carry each other’s burdens as we journey through this life; by which we are also comforted by one Savior (2 Cor 1:3-5). The church’s unity is spiritual - it can't be manufactured by people -it's the supernatural result of the creative work of the Holy Spirit. Where there are real and legitimate complaints like the Colossians experienced with Barbarian and Scythian (the worst of the worst), now IN Christ, in the same church, love is the perfect bond. Why have a lesser solution when we have the complete or perfect bond?

Their solution is our solution is God's solution -not a Third solution --not a "Third Way" --but God's way is, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful." (Col. 3:12-16).

[Will Imfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shai killed this joint.

Through a combination of story telling, history, statistics and Biblical exegesis, Shai presents the difficulties and dangers of ethnic disunity for the church.

Shai’s speech around this difficult topic is so gracious, that this book was a delight to read.

He reminds the reader of the power of rich christian doctrines to address disunity such as justification by faith, and union with Christ…

He reminds the reader Euodia and Syntyche in Philippians, and Paul’s appeal to their unity in Christ over and against their earthly disunity….

He reminds in Philippians 2 of the humility and patience of Christ who, transcending the monumental chasm between divinity and humanity (larger than any ethnic divide), reconciled humanity to himself in the incarnation…

He also reminded me of power of stories to humanize and grow empathy…

Overall I felt this to be a really helpful read for Christians from all walks of life.

[Drake Osborn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winsome. Shai writes like a friend. He gets on your level, he reasons calmly and cooly, and his advice is geared to last more than the cultural moment. The arguments are grounded and simple interpretation of scripture according towards Christ and Shai even shows his interest in historical material as well answering questions that some may have had about past Christians experiences with slavery. Plenty of the book is spent detailing his story of conversion and his experience as a black Christian, which is helpful again not because he sees his story as having some sort of relevatory authority, but because he wants you to see through his lens, as a friend would.

There doesn't seem to be anything in this book that is earth-shattering or groundbreaking or aimed at making a lot of enemies. Well, besides the gospel clarity that he brings. But, for that reason, it was very refreshing and encouraging, while still being challenging. I think this will be my first recommendation for a new Christian who's struggling to understand some of the landscape and the biblical Theological arguments about ethnicity situated in the American context.

[Evan]

Skimmed, so I won't rate. Good. Helpful distinctions on ethnic sins. I'm encouraged by the work that has already been done in the church on this issue, and I look forward to, Lord willing, more of this to come. And this book has more Bible in it than most pop Christian living books.

I do wish secular culture wasn't so loudly obnoxious about this. It would be much easier to accomplish unity if we weren't programmed to either automatically hate "wokeism" or think it's got to be done in the obnoxious secular way of fragmented identities.

One might say that living in the deep south just "doesn't help," but honestly I think it's productive for us to be in spaces where it is not happening as much and ask if it should happen.

[Lance Crandall · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO GOOD!

In a heated and at times tiring current landscape on conversations of race and ethnicity, this book was a balm to the soul. Refreshing and encouraging, challenging and convicting.

Shai exudes humility, gentleness, and gospel-centrality.

Take up and read this book!

* It also makes a good audiobook, in that he narrates it and it has his and Beautiful Eulogy’s music in the background.

[Scott Bielinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent book.

It doesn't answer every question (nor does it set out to). Instead, it helps us to remember what it is that we ought to bring to the conversation (namely, the hope that we have because of God's great mercy in the gospel). The hard work of application is left up to the reader in his/her local church--but Shai Linne does invaluable work in helping us to see *how* the gospel helps us have those conversations.

This book reminds us that the Christian call amid difficulty is towards loving and bearing with one another. He doesn't pretend this is easy--but he doesn't allow us the easy, cynical way out by simply giving up on one another. We don't simply throw one another into fabricated (and, frankly, unloving and unhelpful) categories. Rather, we, like God, forebear. He writes, "Is it not the case that we're more likely to see pejorative labels, name calling, and distortions of the viewpoints of those with whom we disagree? It's far easier to dismiss someone as a 'racist' than it is to love them enough to consider their genuine concerns. It takes far less effort to write someone off as a Marxist than it does to pray from the heart that God would comfort them in their grief, even if we can't understand it" (180-81). How different would the race conversation be if this shaped our interactions?

The hope of this book is that there would be unity around a contentious issue. Shai Linne reminds us of the great hope that Christians have in Jesus Christ. To Shai's credit--and to this book's great success--he reminds us of this on every page.

[Pedro Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book by Shai Linne.

Shai does not hesitate or pull punches when touching on the topic of ethnic unity and the problems surrounding it. If you know a little bit about Shai then you know that his music has been highly influenced and shaped by the gospel of Christ. His lyrics and works are saturated in Scripture and lyrically teach reformed theology.

In this work Shai gives a brief autobiography of his life, testimony and career that is very insightful to understanding his character and reason behind his work. He touches on several topics such as slavery, facing the reality of puritans owning slaves, discrimination, racism, reformed theology, Christian hip hop, Scripture, biblical peace and unity, and so much more. The golden thread in all that he writes is his conviction to glorify God and his love for the church.

A key piece to his argument in this book is the doctrine of justification by faith alone. In his words and eyes “race” is not a helpful term but “ethnicity” is. The doctrine of justification helps to see the heinous sin racism/discrimination is and the root issue. It also provides the key for transforming our perspectives and outlooks on the issue and it’s effects.

The fight for ethnic unity is an ongoing one and there is much work to be done. The gospel of Christ should transform and impact the way we view this issue, those affected, our role, and how to respond.

As Shai always says, Soli Deo Gloria.

[Josh Rosentreter · Rating 5 out of 5]

So helpful, real, and hopeful. Orthodox to the core and a great help to any looking to think hard about racial reconciliation.

[Richard Lawrence · Rating 3 out of 5]

A plea for unity and grace amongst christians across ethnic and political divides

When I reviewed Voddie Baucham's "Faultlines" I remarked that it was like pizza without sauce - good ingredients but missing something - this book could be the sauce - the two would go very well together to help shape a balanced approach to ethnic divisions in America. I agreed with ~90% of the content of both of these books; there is clear disagreement between them but I think there's more common ground than difference.

What is this book?
To those looking for a "Woke" book or an "anti-Woke" book this will be a disappointment - it's neither or at least not exactly, it does critique some woke concepts like "microagressions" and "generational guilt", though it avoids the terminology.

The aim of this book is to call for christians who hold to the great truths of the reformation to unite, and to handle differences (ethnic, political, experiential, social etc.) with mercy and sympathy; being quicker to listen instead of quicker to argue AND taking a long time with one another rather than writing someone off over one disagreement.

A few pervasive points stand out:
- Shai avoids speaking positively OR negatively of both republicans and democrats
- Shai avoids asserting directly whether or not various police shootings that have been so divisive were due to racism and whether or not they were injust/wrong
- Shai avoids almost all the terminology of critical theory and social justice (whilst clearly interacting with some of its tenants he does this very gently and almost indirectly)
- Shai has some strong criticism for both the "woke" crowd and the "anti-woke" crowd though it's done quite indirectly/gently.

Overview of the book
Chapters 1-3 are autobiographical, Shai tells of his rough, non-christian childhood; his unexpected conversion, and the cultural tensions this entailed alongside the positives. He also talks about the founding of Lamp Mode Recordings and the incredible work done through the reformed hip hop movement, and its links with the Young Restless and Reformed movement.

Chapters 4 and 5 introduce the cracks - how the unity this movement had seen did not last well with discussions over:
- the reformed use of material written by slave owners - which felt painful to many;
- the response to high profile police shootings, black men from the culture Shai grew up in found these horrifying and disturbing - rightly or wrongly they couldn't help thinking "it could have been me", most white christians didn't seem to understand - or realise that there was anything for them to understand
- the fact that historically, reformed theologians in america have said very little about racism

Chapter 4 included a brief discussion of Jonathan Edwards and the fact that Shai still reads his work (but at least one of his friends won't). Shai says he's had to wrestle with this considering that Edwards owned slaves but has concluded that the godly knowledge that Edwards' had is worth learning from and he doesn't know the context of Edwards' slave owning- Shai posits that a "good" slave owner could exist (he gives a fictitious example of someone treating slaves like family members, knowing that freeing them would expose them to abuse and worse harm) - this discussion felt a little lacking, I think there is some historical documents showing more on Edwards' views which could have helped; but it's mere presence was insightful - there is something to think on here about how our use historical sources from imperfect authors can cause upset - should we be careful in our references?

Chapter 5 concludes with the question of why we're bad at understanding each other on these topics and why we're bad at listening to each other on this.

Chapter 6 asks if there's anything wrong with the reformed tradition that could lead to the failure to listen to one another/understand one another raised in chapter 5. Shai does a review of the key doctrines of the reformation and concludes that there is nothing wrong and these are wonderful biblical truths and that they ought to lead to unity.

In this chapter Shai also briefly discusses Martin Luther's anti-semitism noting that his work was quoted by the nazis and that it is far out of line with Luther's other teaching, he did not mention Luther's earlier pro-jewish work "Jesus Christ was born a Jew", he largely left the issue of this inconsistency unexplained. (I think Carl Trueman's work on this and putting it in its historical context can be helpful.)

Shai posits/speculates that perhaps there's an issue that so much of the work in reformed theology has historically been done by the better educated and the better off and this may have led to insufficient listening/understanding of others this may be the case in some contexts, though certainly not all so I don't know if it's the most useful speculation.

Chapters 7-9 present a theology of ethnicity this is rock solid. Shai is clear that we need to ground our understanding of this in scripture not culture, he goes from Eden to the New Creation via Babel and Pentecost. He concludes that all ethnicities are equal before God whilst acknowledging that there are differences to be celebrated variety in God's artwork in creation; he asserts that salvation is the same for all of us and unity must be grounded in the gospel - or like all other unities in history since Babel it will fail and fall.

Chapters 10-12 ask the question of how to address the divides Shai explains how when several high profile police killings took place, he and others with his ethnic and cultural background were emotionally effected in a significant way rightly or wrongly they couldn't help seeing themselves and their friends as potential victims of such; but the white members of his church had no context to understand this - he felt like he had no one to confide in/discuss it with.

Shai explains how different christians with different backgrounds can react completely differently to the same events and can be left feeling out of place or even unwelcome amongst other christians.

He challenges to follow the teaching in the book Philippians in how we handle this - to learn to listen to one another, to be patient and sympathetic when we disagree or don't understand; to be forgiving with each other when we think (or know) another christians has got it wrong etc. And ultimately to seek unity in the gospel even if we can't fully agree on some matters.

Strengths
- the solid theology
- the insistence that we must go to the Bible rather than culture for our answers (whilst he doesn't mention it this is a direct attack on the standard "woke" approach)
- the note (can't remember where in the book it was) that the media often inflames tensions/seeks to make matters worse and shouldn't be trust
- the insight into the way that christians with different cultural backgrounds can be affected differently by cultural issues
- the call to unity with those who share our belief in the gospel
- the condemnation of abortion (comes up in passing a couple of times)
- the call to practise forgiveness particularly when misunderstandings take place/potentially unintentional offences occur (the word "microaggression" is not used but the concept is clearly being condemned)
- the call to pursue friendships with christians of different backgrounds and treat each other as christians

Weaknesses
- the reasons christians may form different conclusions on political and social are not explored, as this book is trying to call for unity it is likely by design that it avoids calling either side wrong and yet there are things to work through here
- the handling of Edwards and Luther was rather perfunctory - with the briefness of the book that may have been unavoidable
- some may consider this a strength... this book does not name those it's criticising
- in the short term I'm not sure how practical a unity project like this is - though perhaps this depends how broad the target audience is

Conclusion
A fascinating insight into how someone's background can lead to them thinking very differently/reacting very differently to cultural issues BUT a reminder that ultimately the Bible needs to be our authority in all these things and the gospel the answer.

When there are differences, divisions or upsets in the church let's all seek to listen to each other and practise grace, mercy and sympathy; let's seek to heal divides whenever we can do so without compromising the gospel.

Whilst Shai endeavours to set a neutral tone this book does come over as politically left of centre BUT it's a charitable left that welcomes fellowship with all who hold to the gospel and desires to seriously discuss and understand rather than dismiss and mock. There is no call for reparations here nor is there any call for repentance of generational guilt or anything like that.

Historic American racism and the way it has been talked about has created a festering wound, many modern attempts to heal that wound (CRT, CSJ etc.) only make it worse (I think Thaddeus Williams' "Confronting injustice without compromising on truth" is the best single book to read on this point, though many people prefer Voddie Baucham's "Faultlines") BUT when responding to these damaging attempts at healing we should remember that there is a wound in the first place - this book is very helpful for highlighting that, and whilst I may disagree with some of Shai's implied (though normally unstated) views, I can certainly recognise him as a brother in the Lord and an excellent biblical teacher.

Ultimately Shai's "dream" that he outlines at the end is illustrated by talking about multi-ethnic groups studying John Owen and Thomas Watson together - which I imagine we can all get behind.

[Chrys Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

American Christians are embroiled in a controversy right now. Some leaders are likening this to the threat of liberalism in the days of J. Gresham Machen. Others argue that this is a time to get “woke” and fight the supremacy and powers behind the social injustice in our society as well as the church. Though Christian books on CRT, racism, and social justice are beginning to slowly trickle down to the popular level, labels and accusations are being speedily hurled at outspoken leaders and organizations. The labels are broad—you’re either supporting white supremacy or you’re woke partners in the Critical Social Justice movement.

There seems to be no middle ground.

Some leaders in this discussion have decided to draw lines in the sand, stating that their opponents’ views compromise the gospel. Others have urged that we abandon such either/or thinking on these matters in favor of a more nuanced approach. Rather than opting for a position on either side of the political spectrum, they are calling for a more biblical approach that seeks unity with our brothers and sisters when there is disagreement on the extent of racism in America today.

Winsome Dialogue
In The New Reformation (Chicago: Moody, 2021), Shai Linne does this with excellence. Rather than toe party lines, he strikes a balance of being both biblical and sociological in a way that is convicting, encouraging, and winsome. Shai knows the weightiness of words and aims to guard against any unnecessary association with social justice buzzwords, like the word “race.” He says:

Another thing you’ll notice is that when I speak of race and racism, I put them in quotation marks. This is not because I don’t believe racism exists, but rather because those terms are loaded with unbiblical assumptions about anthropology. This may seem audacious, but I believe that a big step in addressing this issue is changing how we talk about it. Words matter. The terminology we choose can either be helpful or harmful to promoting understanding and effective communication. (16)

Another strength of The New Reformation is that Shai goes back into history to show the wicked and unbiblical stances on race some in the church have held. He mentions the failures of men like Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, James P. Boyce, the founders of the Southern Baptist Convention, and others. Yet he refuses to write off men like Edwards because he finds his heart warmed at the magnificence of Christ in his writings and service to the church. He strives to hope and believe all things (1 Corinthians 13:7).

Humility Throughout
From the beginning of the book, Shai humbly admits, “I’m not writing as a scholar, and I don’t consider myself to be an expert on this topic. I’m a fellow learner sharing some of my observations” (16). As he shares his life story in the early chapters, we get a glimpse of a man impacted by secular black intellectuals, and he honestly discusses his own temptation of placing his identity more in his blackness than his Christ-ness. He’s clear that in these moments, he’s getting things “terribly backward.” (192).

Shai doesn’t claim to have all the answers or get everything right. He doesn’t give the sense that only he and those who agree with him are on solid ground while all others are standing on a fault line destined to fall through. He makes it clear that there is a benefit from believers past and present who not only disagree with him but have failed tremendously in the specific area of racism (or ethnic partiality).

He further exudes humility in reliance on Scripture and church history to guide the way in understanding and calling Christians to partake in a new reformation. He’s not arguing against the Reformation of the sixteenth century, but he is hearkening back to Martin Luther as he calls for an re-emphasis on the five Solas in this conversation. Shai is no renegade maverick trying to peddle Critical Social Justice in the church. Rather, he’s the Soli Deo Gloria Fella calling us back to the principles of the Protestant Reformation that he has rapped about for nearly 20 years. He’s standing on the shoulders of those who came before him.

We should expect nothing less from the lowercase emcee.

Undeniably Biblical
Like all of his music, Shai’s vision and purpose for The New Reformation stems from Scripture. Rather than combing the “new canon” of social justice books, he starts with Jesus’ High Priestly prayer in John 17:21–23 and ends with the glorious vision of a united and diverse church found in Revelation 7:9–10.

From Scripture—through a short biblical theology of ethnicity—Shai explains a lot. He shows us that:
● “Ethnicity” is a more appropriate term than “race” in this conversation because we actually find ethnos in the Greek New Testament and Septuagint. In contrast, race isn’t a biblical category, and it is often defined with unbiblical assumptions in mind.
● Instead of racism, then, we actually see ethnic hatred, ethnic pride, ethnic partiality, ethnic oppression, ethnic idolatry, and ethnic neglect all condemned in various passages of Scripture. In other words, we don’t have to go outside of the Bible to discuss these matters because Scripture clearly addresses them.
● Christ-centered unity must be our focus because “any unity that is not of God will ultimately be thwarted by God. Unity that is of God will be blessed by God” (120). Jesus didn’t die for only one ethnic group, and it’s through HIs radical life and death that we pursue unity.
● Ethnicity is truly meaningful, but it must neither supersede our gospel identity nor be ignored. We shouldn’t profess or aim to be colorblind, either. God fearfully and wonderfully made us in our skin tones and ethnicities, and we shouldn’t downplay that. We must guard again exalting our skin tone—or lack thereof—over and against those who differ from us.
● Justification by grace through faith should draw us to address ethnic sin in the church, acknowledge it in our lives, forgive others for their ethnic sin, call out ethnic sin in our camp, and find our ultimate identity in Christ.

Personally Practical
Practically, Shai calls for the unity Christ prayed for in John 17. This oneness is not based on skin color, political interest, denominational affiliation, or any other earthly category. It is ultimately rooted in our union with the triune God, and our gospel union with Christ carries with it an evangelistic zeal to reach a lost and dying world around us with the gospel that unites us.

Using numerous Scriptures and practical examples, Shai gives us practical and tangible ways to pursue biblical unity across ethnic lines. The last section of the book is precisely what we need in this cultural moment. He points out the reality of conflict in Scripture while showing us how to handle it biblically. There are clear exhortations on how to:
● Pursue biblical affection and sympathy
● Display the fruit of the Spirit
● Keep the gospel central
● Pursue unity with those who disagree with us
● Assume the best in others
● Enter others’ worlds
● Deal graciously with the faults of others
● Persevere in the fight for unity
● Remember Jesus

The Right Book at the Right Time
This book came at just the right time. Though controversy sells, living in light of Scripture will prove to be of greater value. In a day when pressures from every direction call us to choose a side, Shai calls us to look at God’s Word and live out the two greatest commandments—love God and love your neighbor. We can’t do this without the gospel. This doesn’t mean finding racism in every situation, nor does it require leaving white evangelical spaces. It also doesn’t mean denying that there are genuine ethnic sins presently in America or downplaying our brothers’ and sisters’ experiences. It means taking an honest look at God and His word, searching ourselves to see if we have a plank in our eyes, and graciously helping our brothers and sisters remove the specks they may have in their own eyes. Ultimately, our unity is focused the glory of God, and The New Reformation aims to point believers and unbelievers to our glorious God and Savior.

[Jon Pentecost · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shai Linne combines personal experience, social observation, historical reflection all under the scrutiny of Scripture to great effect. This book helpfully introduces the realities of racial prejudice in modern America. Linne also graciously holds up our responses (to those for whom this is news, and for those weary of this reality) to the light of Scripture. Here is a wonderful example of someone striving for the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace by treating one another Christianly. But I would say the main goal of the book is to show that rich, robust, historic Reformation doctrine is true and biblical and for all Christians--in the context of our day and age that questions whether that even _can_ be true given the historic 'whiteness' of Reformed theologians. This is a timely book, a sort of giving a defense for the hope that is in us, even as it presses Christians to live according to those convictions even more clearly than our forebears did. Linne also writes simply and clearly. He defines his terms carefully, so that you don't need a lot of historic background or technical theological training to engage him.

I'd recommend this to anyone struggling with that question, _and_ those struggling with how to respond to folks struggling with that question. The appendix in particular is a wonderful example of lament that isn't simply giving full vent to one's spirit, but also letting scripture inform and correct fleshly inclinations that crop up in the midst of genuine sorrow.

[Renee Masterson Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a hot second, getting on social media was like tiptoeing through land mines with very little willpower to make it through unscathed. I wish we could say the people purchased by the blood of Christ were exempt from this war, but if you were on social media at all in 2020, you know that the division was magnified when brothers and sisters in Christ sharply divided over “racial” tensions. Here in Richmond, the tension and hostility was palpable, fear seemed to rule, and local churches divided. It was a grievous time indeed, on all fronts. The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity by Shai Linne should really be the Christian’s number one book when it comes to pursing unity within the church’s diversity.

Shai Linne writes with poetic ease, full of grace and compassion while remaining patient in attempting to understand differing viewpoints points within the church. There are many things that make this book stand out. Let me list them:

1. With such an emotionally and politically charged subject both inside and outside of the church, Shai winsomely does not use aggressive, belittling, hurtful, hateful, or disingenuous tones in his writing. You can tell that unity in Christ is his utmost concern and he has his eye on Revelation 7:9 where all nations will worship Christ as one. He compels the reader to pause and he does not ruffle feathers for the sake of getting a rise. Nor does he write with a tone of shame or revenge.

2. This book is broken down into 4 mini books which keeps the pages turning. He starts by telling his upbringing and how he came to know Christ as Lord and then moves into sharing of his love for the doctrines of grace while helping Christians rightly think through Puritanical theology. After this he elaborates on what same call “race” and “racism” and instead provides a biblical framework for using terms like “ethnicity” and “ethnic sins” while also proposing the “how to” for ending said ethnic sins. The last part deals solely with the believer’s unity with Christ and a charge to be unified with other believers.

3. This might be one of the most hope-filled, eternally-focused, gospel-saturated books I have ever read. It is rich in theology and though it tugs on the heart strings, it is not emotionally-driven. There is a real sense of trust in the Holy Spirit to unify believers and a golden thread of God’s faithfulness is woven from cover to cover.

4. When you finish the book, you will think, “Wow. Well, that was not what I expected it to be. It was infinitely better.”

5. The gospel remains of first importance without minimizing the reality of ethnic division in the American church. There are moments of discomfort and conviction. There are moments of pain and empathy. There are pages of tears and heaviness. But in all, there is so much hope. This book points you upward to the surpassing worth of Christ and takes the focus off of me-me-me.

6. Though I believe this book is primarily written to white Christians, Christians of all ethnicities will be theologically, relationally, and practically helped by this book as it doesn’t “take sides” but keeps the true plumb line of Jesus Christ himself.

7. I loved not only the emphasis on the 5 solas, reformed theology, and well-known Puritan/ish theologians and pastors, but also the needed separation that Shai gives between a pastor/theologian/teacher and the said teachings.

Overall, this is an essential book for the Christian life. I feel that I am better able to recognize the sin tendencies of my own heart, the reservations and doubt I have about the church, and where I still need to be sanctified. I am left wanting to walk in holiness after reading this book, and for that reason alone, you should read this book. But I hope you see that this book is worth every bit of time you spend with it. 10 stars out of 5.

[Spencer Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

If the title had you thinking, "yet another book on race", then, friend, I couldn't recommend this book more: yes, it's about race (or really, ethnicity), and Christianity, but it's really about Christlikeness, and ethnic unity is a symptom of what getting that right would look like, if we could do it.

Similarly, if it sounds like a book that will "lay waste" to the errors in the modern American church, then I'd recommend this book to you: rather than an assault on all that's wrong with American Christians (you know, those ones over there), it gives instead a diagnosis and treatment for how we as individual Christians can grow in Christlikeness (and yes, that includes overcoming the tendency to look and think like our surrounding culture).

Shai writes with a clear, instructive style, soaked in Scripture at every turn, that avoids both didactic condescension and trite obviousness. He challenges readers to check how their attitudes and actions line up with Christ's vision for the church (painting a realistic, but gracious view of its failings both current and historical), while practicing and advocating the gracious "along-side-ness" of a fellow sinner saved by Jesus's mercy. As much as each principle in the book is explicitly rooted in Biblical references, the book as a whole is an exemplar of what it looks like to take 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 to heart.

The orthodoxical-and-orthopraxical "third way" Shai lays out (the titular "New Reformation") is first of all humble, gracious, and fixated on what God would have us to do and be in order to mimic our Savior, and not at all distracted by what that implies about political or social affiliations. It's believers who are quick to be peacemakers both by confessing our own sins and repenting of them, and by letting love cover over a multitude of sins and offenses from others.

This baseline humility and grace-oriented-ness shines through in the book, in Shai's interactions in his public life, and in the imitation of Christ that Shai points to over and over again in this book.

I'd recommend this book to any believer, anyone interested in overcoming (or even just understanding) ethnic divisions in the US, anyone curious what Christianity is about, or really just anyone. It's excellent.

[Peter Vik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally! This summarizes my reaction to Shai Linne’s wonderful book. With so much of the talk about racial unity coming in the form of polarizing sound bites, Linne gives us a breath of fresh air. He is painfully aware of the continuing problem of racial injustice, but rather than looking to the world for answers, he directs us to God’s word in his call for ethnic unity.
After sharing his powerful, personal testimony, he explains how the Lord brought him into Reformed theology, having been taught early on by giants like James Boice and Phillip Ryken, and having been influenced by writers such as J. I. Packer, R. C. Sproul, John Piper and Jerry Bridges. He revels in his love for Reformed theology, and the way it brought him in contact with the glory of God. He also speaks honestly about some of the dark history of the Reformed tradition, and other Christian traditions, with regard to racial injustice and slavery.
Ironically, He argues that the very theology he loves provides the answers to the sins of many Christian teachers of the past.
Speaking to a climate where many Christians are divided on their views of racial injustice (or the lack thereof), he does not vacillate on the reality of it being a tragic ongoing problem. But, in calling us to unity, he does not address the reader from the perspective of Marxism, critical race theory, or any of the vapid tools the world has to offer. No! He roots his call to ethnic unity in the most basic Christian doctrines. Coming at the issues from the perspective of biblical inerrancy, he focuses on the doctrine of justification by faith alone, and the new life that only Christ provides. He sees this doctrine as the means by which believers can be truly united.
Some will, no doubt, dismiss Shai Linne out of hand with the use of one label or another because he makes them uncomfortable. But anyone who genuinely takes the time to read his arguments and understand them will realize that he is a gifted Christian theologian and exegete, who values nothing more than the centrality of Christ as He is revealed in the Bible. His background and testimony make him an ideal person to address this issue using the truths of God’s Word. I pray that God will give believers of every ethnicity ears to hear and hearts to understand the important message of this book. Again I say, finally!