Integration

“Southern Baptist history is as rich as it is complicated. Only by reckoning with our history can we fulfill the promises of a brighter future for the denomination. The work and witness of T. B. Maston is part of this history that needs to be recovered and remembered. Southern Baptists and the church as a whole have much to learn from Maston’s pioneering efforts in Christian ethics and racial reconciliation. His legacy is ours.”


—Karen Swallow Prior, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary





“In this masterfully written analysis of Maston’s theological project, Morrison provides much-needed insight into the theology and historical context of one of the most unsung heroes in Baptist life. Morrison . . . highlights how this towering figure shaped Southern Baptist views on race for generations to come. Morrison’s work here is a gift for the church, and one that should not be ignored in the present context.”


—Rhyne Putman, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary





“Through a critical analysis of Maston’s work, Morrison provides for us today a blueprint for tackling the issues that undergird racism, prejudice, and discrimination in Christian institutions. Those who have the courage, confidence, and commitment to aggressively and proactively confront the racial problems inherent in denominational, ecclesiastical, and personal spaces will benefit and be blessed by reading and implementing the strategies put forward in this book.”


—William Dwight Mckissic, author of Beyond Roots: In Search of Blacks in the Bible





“Those unfamiliar with T. B. Maston now have Paul Morrison to give us an insightful encounter with the theology and ethics of a brave leader who provides both an example and catalyst for our ongoing engagement on questions of race. This volume invites us to understand and utilize an approach to Christian ethics that is properly holistic and helps us think about what it means to be Christian. . . . This is a book for all Christians, not just Baptists.”


—Vincent Bacote, Wheaton College





“Paul Morrison joins T. B. Maston’s hope to go beyond desegregation to full integration—all races not only eating in the same restaurant but at the same table and in each other’s homes. Morrison argues for racial reconciliation within the framework of inerrancy. His excitement and expertise lend to a thoroughly readable commentary on Gen 1, Acts 17, and Maston’s ethics.”


—Katie Frugé, director, Center for Cultural Engagement and the Christian Life Commission