Review of "Plantation Jesus"

Well written and engaging, timely and relevant, this book is a must-read for anyone who sees the racial problems we face currently. It is even more of a must-read for those who still question what problems, if any, still exist.
Beginning with a definition of “Plantation Jesus”, an idol we have created in our own (white) image, the authors skillfully cover the historical aspects of religiously acceptable racism. The focus on improper exegesis that allows us to arrive here is clear to a layperson who may not have considered such things before, and without leaving the main points, plants a seed that inspires exploration into what other areas of our lives we may be modeling on faulty understanding of scripture.
The section on supremacy and privilege is a powerful expose' of what this has looked like throughout our US history, and what it looks like today. The reader is made clearly aware that not all racism is overt or labeled. The subject is handled masterfully, without making individual accusation, but at the same time, pulling no punches concerning systemic and ingrained attitudes that led (and lead) to oppression.
An open-hearted reader may experience a major paradigm shift during the discussion of using the word “Christian” as an adjective rather than a noun. What is a “christian” home, family, bookstore, or nation? What happens when the value of “faith and family” leads to idolatry? This is a thoughtful and careful dissection of the idolatry of nationalism. The book continues with an eye-opening look at the economics of modern day slavery in the form of collegiate sports (!) and mass incarceration.
Far from leaving us staggering from this impressive exploration of racism within the the US Christian Church, the authors begin to explore real options, real solutions. Not a symbolic diversity for diversity's sake, but an introduction to True Jesus, and how we can learn to walk with him. Practical ideas and resources for what this may look like both individually and corporately; ways to begin purposefully practicing this within your own local faith community.
This book is not only a revelation of the problems, leading to individual epiphany; but a proclamation of solution, leading to the possibility of real progress.

Buy it here