Book Recap: One Blood, Parting Words to the Church on Race and Love

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Today, I want to share a bit about a book I read this summer. This isn’t going to be a deep dive into a full review, as there are much more qualified people out there that have done just that, but just a quick take on the book from my opinion.

My friend Kathleen and I read Dr. John Perkins’ book “One Blood: Parting Words to the Church on Race and Love” this summer, and did the discussion questions from the back of the book. It took us most of the summer to read and discuss it, but I’m glad that we took it slowly.

The book contains a really interesting look at history, the personal experiences of Dr. Perkins on race, progress, reconciliation, and then wraps up with a heartfelt message from Dr. Perkins.

We chose this book because it’s more timely than ever, given all that is happening in our world this year, and we wanted to read something from the perspective of someone older, wiser, with a full life’s experience of yearning for reconciliation.

The discussion questions in the book prompted thoughtful discussion, exposing that Kathleen and I both have unique experiences to bring to this topic. It was convicting for me, personally, and left me feeling quietly thoughtful about where we are in the world today, and specifically within the church.

While I have just started to scratch the surface of learning about racism on a deeper level (both historically and what is current in our world), I’m glad to have this book as a foundation as I continue exploring this topic.

This quote was particularly meaningful to me:

“I don’t think it makes sense to go into a battle and not know who you’re fighting against. And if you’re in a battle and don’t even know there’s a battle going on, you’re going to be wiped out. This thing of reconciliation is one of the devil’s main battlegrounds. We need to know that in order to be ready to fight well.” -Dr. John Perkins.

I’d highly recommend this book, especially if you are a Christian and would find value in reading something from a fellow Christian as well.

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Stel says · 09.03.20

Sounds interesting and something that I will look out for. In South Africa, 26 years into a new democracy, reconciliation i something that is still not properly addressed and we’re still struggling. A resource I’ve been finding very helpful, is the Centre for Biblical Unity, addressing racial, reconciliation, transformation etc issue from a Biblical perspective. Interesting to find that Monique also worked in RSA for some years!

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Emily Kroodsma says · 09.03.20

Love this!!! Thank you for sharing. I love that it’s from a Christian perspective too since so many from the church have remained silent for too long. ❤️

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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says · 09.03.20

Okay, I need to give this a read! ❤️✨

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com

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Rachel says · 09.03.20

The quote reminds me of what a Bible study I’m doing called The Armor of God by Priscilla Shirer mentioned. We don’t fight against flesh and blood but against the authorities of the unseen world (Ephesians 6). Thank you for posting. I am reading a book by his son.

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Tara says · 09.03.20

Thank you for this review and mentioning this book! I’m looking forward to reading it soon.

Several years ago, Dr. Perkins came to speak at my alma mater and (at the time) place of employment. I was so thankful to meet him and honored to make his coffee! What a good and kind man.

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Thomas Newell says · 04.26.21

Thanks for this post!

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