Eric Mason (1)

The force of the word "Woke" has changed since the 2 years that Dr. Mason wrote this book, which may cause closed-minded people to skip reading it; falsely assuming that within the pages are a compromised Christian message tied to a politically ideological movement. That would be a grave mistake, and only prove one of Dr. Mason's main points; that too often the Christian church turns dismissive to the history, the contributions, and the need to unite together within the American church by show more believing the larger narrative constructed by the culture rather than Scripture itself.

This would be a great introductory book to give to those who are simply asking the question of why Racial Reconciliation should be a topic that Christians should care about, as Dr. Mason roots all of his arguments first in the Bible, then in how the application could be used to love neighbor. Readable and accessible for the lay person and the pastor alike. show less

Rated: B+
A wake up call for those of us who call ourselves followers of Christ.
• Our Christ Consciousness elevates our awareness to our responsibility to care for and love our brothers – even those who don’t look like us.
• … legislation doesn’t change hearts … only the gospel does.
• Much of Christian history is painted white.
• Hope is the pillar of the faith that God gives His people so that they can envision change.
• Intervening justice calls us to get involved, to come show more alongside those who are hurting and make a difference.
• An injustice done to one human being is an injustice done to us all. show less

A good introductory work into matters of racism and injustice, particularly in Evangelical Christianity in America, as written by a person of color.

The author is in conversation with, and often dependent upon, other voices discussing similar matters, but also brings his own experience and views to bear upon the matter. The author addresses how the church ought to already be "woke," to speak out regarding the implicit racism of the day and matters of white supremacy, the nature of the Gospel show more and its inclusion, validation, and fundamental equality of all who would come to Jesus, things regarding which the church ought to lament, finding a voice to speak the truth to society, working toward change and what the church ought to look like in its work, and looking at everything in light of the resurrection and glory to come.

The author puts much emphasis on church related works which might be better served to be accomplished by individuals, but otherwise brings are more theologically conservative voice to the table on matters of race in Evangelicalism, and one of a person of color at that. It's written in a conversational tone and useful for the beginner who has not read up on much regarding the issue.

**--galley received as part of early review program show less

Overall an excellent book, but this is the part that has stuck with me for years now: "I pray that we would commune with God to the point that the thought of diminishing that communion would cause us the kind of grief Jesus felt in the garden that night and on the cross the next day."