In this article Billy talks about the reported dissatisfaction that many blacks are experiencing as members of churches in this season of social unrest and pandemic. In response he offers the ministry of Jesus as a grassroots organizer as a way to help churches find their voice and better serve their communities.
Read MoreA Tribute to Dr. Randall Bailey: Biblical Scholar, Intellectual Freedom Fighter and Committed Contrarian
This blog is a repost of a tribute Billy wrote in 2015 in honor of distinguished Biblical Scholar Dr. Randall Bailey. As a former student and teaching assistant of Dr. Bailey, Billy writes about the history of their friendship, Dr. Bailey’s scholarship and his contributions to Church and Society. He writes about the need to have other scholars rise up and take up the work of one of the most legendary black religious scholars of our time.
Read MoreRacial Reconciliation Hustlers and my Progressive Christian Case for Reparations
In this provocative piece Billy writes about the current industry of Christian based racial reconciliation and failure to address the work of restorative justice. Billy lays out how theologies of reconciliation too often fall short and provides a way forward for progressive minded Christians who support reparations as an important step of reconciliation.
Read MoreDismantling Theologies that make Blacks "Niggers" and Dalits "Untouchables"
The World Communion of Reformed Churches convened a group of Black and Indian theologians and scholars to consider how churches can resist the rise of authoritarianism, nationalism and racism. Specifically in the context of the oppressed Dalit Christian community in India. At this convening that took place in Bangalore, India and Bangkok, Thailand, Billy gave a presentation on how theology is often used as a tool further cultural domination. This post is a full text of his remarks.
Read More9 Ways to Save Thanksgiving from False Narratives & White Supremacy
In this timely and insightful post Billy writes about the mixed moral history of thanksgiving and how we can make it better by using it as an opportunity to consider how we might be more giving and fight the systems of white supremacy. Check it out and share it with others who need to read it.
Read MoreKatie Cannon, Race in Theological Schools and 60 years of the Interdenominational Theological Center
In this insightful and heartfelt post Billy writes about racial disparity in theological schools and the importance of the Interdenominational Theological Center. Billy also talks about the legacy of the recently departed Dr. Katie Geneva Cannon and he is personally thankful for her work and witness. If you are someone who cares about theological education and/or the contributions of black women scholars you need to read and share this!
Read MoreThe People Deserve Better: An Open Letter to the Pastors who met with Trump about Prison Reform
In response to the outcry over several black pastors participating in a White House meeting about prison reform. Billy writes an open letter asking pastors who support Trump’s so-called reform measures to give explanation for their support. He also challenges them to give account for the support in light of the fact that Trump’s administration has a pro-prison agenda. Read and share this provocative letter of challenge.
Read MoreMy Critical and (somewhat) Gracious view of the Legacy of Billy Graham
The news of the passing of renowned evangelist Billy Graham has brought about a massive stream of effusive praise from his fans and admirers. This public is understandable but merits critical interrogation especially from African Americans familiar with Graham's checkered past as it relates civil rights and race relations. For this reason, Billy has written a courageous reflection on the legacy of Graham that shows why his theology and social views make it difficult for some to celebrate him even in death. Check it out and please share.
Read MoreWhy I'm Done Talking To White Christians about Racial Reconciliation
Christian based conversations about race relations and reconciliation has become an industry in contemporary Christianity, especially among the so-called evangelical wing. There are conferences, books, speaking tours and sermons produced continually talking about how the church can overcome the challenges of race and come together for the sake of Jesus. But despite the popularity of racial reconciliation ministry Billy is not impressed and is speaking his mind about why. Check out what he has to say.
Read MoreBlack Churches and the Neglected Public Pastor-Theologian
In this insightful post Billy lifts up the importance of the public pastoral model of ministry. He also shows how this model of ministry has been neglected in contemporary life because it's not as sexy as some other models. In addition, Billy shows how the public minister tradition, though marginal, has always been an important part of American social life and then he concludes by offering a clarion call for the rise of more public pastor-theologians.
Read MoreMy Top 5 MLK Books and the Danger of Co-opting his Legacy
As the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King approaches Billy provides a list of books that will be helpful in understanding the true legacy, life and mission of MLK. A list such as this is even more important today because there are those who seek to co-opt and in some cases sanitize the legacy of MLK for their own personal agenda and gain. This is unacceptable. All the more reason to read and share Billy's list of MLK books.
Read MorePreaching with Sanctified Imagination
In this blog post Billy gives an insightful and illustrative overview of what it means to preach with sacred imagination. Pulling from his over 20 years of preaching experience Billy shares some tools for effective communication in the 21st century. If you are a preacher, religious educator, public speaker or just someone interested in the art of preaching you need to read this! Check it out! #TruthOnTheLoose
Read MoreWaiting for the Woke White Church to Show Up
In this post Billy makes the bold proclamation that if White supremacy is ever going to end White people will have to take the lead in defeating it. Therefore, he sends a prophetic call to White Christians everywhere to stand up in the name of justice and equality and begin to mobilize among themselves. All those concerned about God, love and justice should read and share this post. #TruthOnTheLoose
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