I recently finished a fascinating book entitled, Intersectional Theology: An Introductory Guide, by Grace Ji-Sun Kim and Susan M. Shaw (Augsburg Fortress, Minneapolis, 2018). I found the book both enlightening and intriguing.
One of my favorite musical productions is the Christmas Eve service of Nine Lessons and Carols. I’m in full worship mode the moment the boy soprano starts to sing the carol, “Once in Royal David’s City.” As much as I love the sound of that solo soprano voice, though, if the carols were limited to only solos the service would lose its appeal. Boys and men’s choirs join the single voice in music that soars to the heavens. I understand, after reading Intersectional Theology, theology historically has been done in a similar fashion to that lone boy soprano.
In our attempts to understand and interpret scripture, we have gone to great extremes to understand the context in which it was written. We have then attempted to shape the insights that we have gained to fit the context in which we find ourselves. The problem, which the book points out, is that this has been done almost exclusively by white, males of European descent. Instead of having a diverse choir sing the message of scripture and theology, we have only listened to a solo.
The book is powerfully and persuasively written. Examples of new perspectives that are offered by people of different race, nationality, gender and sexual orientation are clearly given. A new path of experiencing the good news of Jesus and God’s love and grace is offered.
Though the book is not an easy read, it is an important read. I highly recommend it to all practical theologians (pastors) and anyone who has an interest in theology.