How Would Jesus Vote? Black Liberation Theology

I certainly won't claim any expertise on the subject--or even a great amount of knowledge--but it's big news these days in light of Barack Obama's ties to Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago and its controversial former pastor, the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright Jr.

So, here's a piece from RedBlueChristian. I don't agree with all the suppositions or conclusions the blog makes--such as the assertion that liberation theology ceases to be Christian; I've long known it is, at best, presumptuous of me (a sinful but redeemed Christian) to make claims on others' relationship with Christ because/in spite of their theological bent and, at worst, it's arrogant to make such a claim. But this piece gives a good overview of the chatter among evangelicals in relation to the controversy.

I particularly like this statement, again, courtesy of RedBlueChristian:

"There have been numerous positive contributions by Black Liberation Theology of which Ron Rhodes of the Christian Research Institute highlights four.
(disclaimer: the Wikipedia entry for Black Liberation Theology contains no citations; take with a grain of salt, as its veracity cannot be independently verified)

1. It has served as a reminder that our theology must find practical expression in society if Christians are going to meet 21st century needs.
2. It reminds us that God is involved with His people in real life situations.
3. Focuses our attention on the need to reach out to others in the body of Christ who are suffering.
4. It has served as an indictment on racist views that have been all-too-present (but not always) among white people.

Note that the emphasis on the first point is mine: this is one of the key hallmarks of the emerging church movement, and I wholeheartedly agree with this missional focus on the 21st century Church in general and Christians in particular.

Also, I direct your attention to yesterday's "All Things Considered," which featured an interview with the new pastor of Trinity Evangelical Church of Christ, the Rev. Otis Moss III. It was, at times, an insightful interview. Give it a listen, and take a look at NPR's overview of Black Liberation Theology.

Grace and Peace...