Lecture on Critical Race Theory in Evangelicalism

Introduction

• The session focuses on the presence of critical race theory (CRT) in contemporary evangelicalism.
• CRT is appearing in various evangelical circles, including seminaries, denominational statements, and interdenominational websites.

Examples of CRT in Evangelicalism

Outside Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)

• The Gospel Coalition:
  • Articles reflecting CRT, such as Pastor Thabiti’s article on societal responsibility for MLK’s assassination.
  • Mika Edmondson's article on the diversity of the Reformation.
• Christianity Today:
  • Articles like Amy Julia Becker's on solidarity between white and black Christians.
• CRU (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ):
  • Emphasis on discussions of racism, influenced by CRT concepts.

Within Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)

• Southeastern Seminary:
  • Courses and materials influenced by CRT.
  • A piece by Matt Mullins questioning if CRT is un-Christian.
• Southern Baptist Leaders:
  • Statements by leaders like Matt Chandler and David Platt containing CRT ideas.
  • Matthew Hall’s confession of benefitting from structural racism.

Themes and Concepts

• Historical and Systemic Racism:
  • The legacy of systemic issues like slavery, segregation, and the Indian Removal Act.
  • Discussion on the perpetuation of racial hierarchy and white supremacy.
• Social Justice in Christianity:
  • Equity in housing and education as gospel issues.
  • The need for political diversity and recognizing racial inequities.
• Cultural and Theological Reflection:
  • The Pilgrim and Indigenous Principles in gospel contextualization.
  • The influence of American Christianity on racial issues.

Reconciliation and Justice

• Holistic Gospel:
  • The gospel encompasses spiritual, emotional, economic, and social restoration.
  • Importance of addressing social justice as part of gospel work.
• Role of the Black Church:
  • Integration of orthodoxy and orthopraxy in addressing justice issues.
  • The church's role in advocating for justice and righteousness in public life.

Challenges and Solutions

• Systemic Injustice:
  • Misunderstandings about what constitutes systemic racism.
  • The need for awareness and reform in systems like law enforcement and education.
• Engagement Across Communities:
  • Encouraging dialogue about race and justice within evangelical circles.
  • The importance of reading diverse voices in theology and church history.

Conclusion

• The ongoing challenge of addressing racism and justice in evangelicalism.
• Encouragement for continued dialogue and reform to align with gospel principles.
• Recognition of historical injustices and the need for repentance and reconciliation.