I read most of James Cohn's book A Black Theology of Liberation. I say most of his book because the chapter headings changed, but the content started to repeat, so I didn't finish it. After reading about two-thirds, it became clear that the basic tenets of thought had been expressed. It has provided insight into why some in this community feel the way they do.
With out editorial of any kind, here are some of the basic principles:
- Liberation of blacks is God's work. It's not that His work is harmonious with, or consistent with black liberation--it is black liberation.
- God is black. (see above...)
- Overcoming oppression is justified by any means as it is God's work.
- Sin has not led to oppression; however, not doing your part to abolish oppression is sin.
- God is not the God of all--He is the God of the oppressed (blacks). If He is the God of all, He is a God of racism. Black liberationists cannot accept a God who allows the oppression of blacks, therefore He is not the God of all.
- America is a racist country. Its very foundation is racist. The founding fathers were racists--they are not revered or held in high regard. They are viewed as oppressors who founded an oppressive country. As such, the national structure should be challenged and changed.
- Liberation is the essence of divine activity. God's liberating of the oppressed is viewed as revelation. In other words, He makes himself known through his activities--liberating blacks.
- Blacks should never be told to accept their circumstances. They should never feel they should bear their afflictions with patience and long suffering. To the black liberationist, this breeds complacency. The docile black person is not doing his part to liberate the oppressed. There is no thought that challenges and trials are for our growth and perfection. They should be met with vigorous resistance, even violence if need be.
So, what do you think? Any thoughts on recent comments heard during the election in light of this theology? After all, it was preached to the Obamas by Rev. Wright for 20 yrs. What about Obama's comments about the restrictions of the constitution? What about Michelle Obama's comment that she'd never been proud of her country? It's no wonder change was the word of the year. I'm beginning to wonder what kind of change is really on the horizon...
*By the way, the picture is of Charles Barkley. It was taken for a Sports Illustrated cover years ago. Barkley discusses his feelings on race and breaking free from convention. He's a very candid, interesting, and conservative guy. Believe it or not.
3 comments:
Very interesting and disturbing. I'm thinking of the black people we have baptized here in Franklin. Melvin said he felt so welcomed and at home in our ward even though there are only a handful of blacks. I hope he realizes he is feeling the Holy Ghost. We try to make these things clear to new converts but you never know if it's a "take". (I'm a ward missionary.) I doubt if what they feel at these black liberation churches is the Holy Ghost.
Very interesting, and I must say enlightening. This really does (in my mind) shed a lot of light on some people I've met. Not to mention our next president (shudder).
Scary.
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