Pastor Theologians, The Gospel, and the Ministry of Racial Conciliation by Benjamin D. Espinoza

Pastor Theologians, The Gospel, and the Ministry of Racial Conciliation

Benjamin D. Espinoza

Benjamin Espinoza (MA, Asbury Theological Seminary) is a PhD student
at Michigan State University. His research explores theological education,
leadership, vocation, and diversity in churches and seminaries. He is a fellow with the Center for Pastor Theologians and serves on the board of the Association of Youth Ministry Educators.

Abstract: Evangelicalism has a historically tenuous relationship with racial
conciliation. As our nation becomes increasingly diverse, we must rethink our approaches to racial conciliation. The purpose of this article is to give pastor theologians a vision and plan for developing a rich ministry of racial conciliation. The paper will situate racial conciliation as a gospel issue that demands a response. Next, the article will explore how scholars have reflected on the source, nature, and solutions to racism. Finally, I develop key practices and implications that will assist pastor theologians in being agents of racial conciliation in both ecclesial and academic spaces.
Key Words: Race, evangelicalism, pastor theologian, racial conciliation, social justice, gospel