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Sep 27, 2013 Leigh Kramer rated it information technology was amazing

This should exist required reading. The play a joke on is to focus on the ways You lot contribute to disunity in the church, instead of coming upwardly with a list of other people who actually should read it. Nosotros're all guilty of othering just we don't accept to stay there. Cleveland offers personal stories, inquiry, and well-reasoned theology to back up her points. She lovingly urges us to remove our blinders and become part of the solution to the division and vitriol that seems to exist growing worse each yr. This should be required reading. The fob is to focus on the ways You contribute to disunity in the church building, instead of coming up with a list of other people who actually should read it. Nosotros're all guilty of othering just we don't have to stay in that location. Cleveland offers personal stories, research, and well-reasoned theology to back up her points. She lovingly urges the states to remove our blinders and become part of the solution to the sectionalization and vitriol that seems to be growing worse each year. ...more than

Feb 11, 2014 Jennifer rated information technology really liked it

I was all set to hear about why "those" people or institutions don't get information technology, and what's wrong with them. After all, I've been reading about this stuff since college, so I didn't figure that would be anything new here. I was wrong. I was disarmed from page one, realizing that I am every bit guilty of "us/them" thinking every bit anyone, and this message is for me. With a combination of personal story-telling and academic research, Dr. Cleveland communicates in a spirit of humility and grace, while be unapologe I was all set to hear nigh why "those" people or institutions don't go it, and what's wrong with them. Later on all, I've been reading about this stuff since higher, so I didn't figure that would exist anything new here. I was incorrect. I was disarmed from page ane, realizing that I am every bit guilty of "the states/them" thinking equally anyone, and this message is for me. With a combination of personal story-telling and bookish inquiry, Dr. Cleveland communicates in a spirit of humility and grace, while be unapologetically an expert in her field of social psychology. And most importantly, she offers promise for real modify. ...more

Writing from the perspective of the social psychologist, who too happens to be a adult female and person of color, Christena Cleveland, addresses the problem of disunity within the trunk of Christ. While virtually ecumenical conversations focus on doctrine and polity, seeking to discover pathways to unity amongst our diversity of church practices and theologies, Cleveland focuses on cultural and ethnic diversity and the dangers of homogeneity.

It is a very good book, raising of import questions and suggesting wa

Writing from the perspective of the social psychologist, who as well happens to be a woman and person of color, Christena Cleveland, addresses the problem of disunity within the body of Christ. While most ecumenical conversations focus on doctrine and polity, seeking to detect pathways to unity amongst our diverseness of church building practices and theologies, Cleveland focuses on cultural and ethnic diversity and the dangers of homogeneity.

It is a very good book, raising important questions and suggesting means in which the gap can be bridged. Most of the suggested solutions focus on building relationships and common identities that bridge our multifariousness. She does, notwithstanding, rightfully dispel the idea that "color-blindness" is the answer. Colour-blindness rather than helping build bridges by eliminating cultural and ethnic differences fosters them by ignoring or missing those places where privilege suppresses minorities in the proper noun of unity. Beingness more open and frank about our cultural differences tin provide the opportunity to forge a common identity that includes those differences.

Writing equally an evangelical Christian, Cleveland suggests that the key is to forge a common identity in Christ. Nosotros are, ane body in Christ.

Ane business concern or question that I detect it necessary to heighten is this: at what point exercise we find it besides difficult to forge a common identity in ane local torso? I raise this question because I find that there are conservative Christian communities that are very diverse ethnically, merely very narrow theologically. At the same time, I would say that a majority of liberal Protestant churches that let for a wide diversity in theological and political views tend to be fairly homogeneous. I continue to wonder why this is -- and it's non a question that Cleveland raises in her book. Indeed, she skirts theology for the most office. That'due south understandable since she writes as a psychologist and not as a theologian, but information technology is a question that we need to pursue.

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I found this book a mixed bag. On i hand, it presents many fascinating and thought-provoking arguments on our propensity, equally humans, to band together with people who are like us and exclude those who aren't like us, prejudiced confronting everything about them often simply because of their skin colour, beliefs, cultural background, or the simple fact that they disagree with u.s..
While this was presented with a cracking deal of evidence and in a disarming manner, I found that the case was almost overst I found this book a mixed bag. On i hand, it presents many fascinating and thought-provoking arguments on our propensity, equally humans, to band together with people who are like us and exclude those who aren't similar us, prejudiced against everything most them often simply considering of their skin colour, beliefs, cultural background, or the simple fact that they disagree with us.
While this was presented with a nifty bargain of evidence and in a convincing manner, I found that the example was almost overstated. I wish the author had spent a piddling less time establishing it and more on explaining how to overcome this tendency.
All the same, information technology's still a worthwhile and center-opening read.
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Sep 16, 2021 Charlotte rated it information technology was amazing

WOW WOW WOW. This is a GOOD book. Dr. Cleveland writes beautifully and hits the perfect sweet spot of articulating her wisdom every bit a researcher in an understandable and enjoyable manner, that the reader is able to digest and empathise. That is not an easy chore! The fact that this adult female has her Ph.D. in social psychology and I, the reader, accept never read so much as a unmarried article on social psychology, and I could understand and Savor her research is pretty mindblowing. Brava, Dr. Cleveland. Bes WOW WOW WOW. This is a GOOD book. Dr. Cleveland writes beautifully and hits the perfect sweetness spot of articulating her wisdom every bit a researcher in an understandable and enjoyable manner, that the reader is able to digest and understand. That is not an easy chore! The fact that this woman has her Ph.D. in social psychology and I, the reader, have never read so much as a single article on social psychology, and I could understand and ENJOY her enquiry is pretty mindblowing. Brava, Dr. Cleveland. Likewise existence an academic accomplishment, this book also hit the sweetness spot for being utterly convicting AND wildly encouraging. Dr. Cleveland writes with such warmth and wisdom, calling readers to reevaluate and act in response to our religion without Always sounding lecture-y or belittling. Chapter one had me do a SERIOUS vibe-check to myself and prejudices and I couldn't be more thankful. Seriously, a must-read for all who call themselves "Christian." An enjoyable and poignant read that I can guarantee you lot won't regret picking upwards! ...more

Jul 04, 2020 Jonathan rated information technology it was amazing

Relevant and needed. If x% of church leaders read this book, the church would look and act differently. This book is interesting, practical, challenging and funny. At first I wished the volume was more theological, but then I realised that perhaps many of our "theological" differences that forbid unity with other Christians and churches are actually shallow cover ups for the social psychological reasons that lie beneath. Very insightful cross-cultural helps that will aid reconciliation efforts for Relevant and needed. If 10% of church building leaders read this book, the church building would look and act differently. This book is interesting, practical, challenging and funny. At first I wished the book was more theological, but and then I realised that perchance many of our "theological" differences that prevent unity with other Christians and churches are really shallow cover ups for the social psychological reasons that lie beneath. Very insightful cross-cultural helps that will aid reconciliation efforts for those willing to try. Furthermore, Cleveland practices what she preaches. Can y'all retrieve of any other book that has endorsements from such varied Christians as Greg Boyd, Thabiti M. Anyabwile (of the Gospel Coalition), Sojourners and Rachel Held Evans?! ...more than

Sep 17, 2021 Pete rated it actually liked it

Really smashing book! I appreciated the fashion Christena unpacked this equally a social psychologist. When we find our identity in Christ, our other identities are right-sized in comparison. I've heard this for the individual Christian, only it is powerful to realize *our* identity equally the Church building is found in Christ. Actually peachy book! I appreciated the way Christena unpacked this every bit a social psychologist. When we find our identity in Christ, our other identities are right-sized in comparison. I've heard this for the private Christian, simply it is powerful to realize *our* identity as the Church is found in Christ. ...more

This may be the single almost attainable volume dealing with racial bug affecting the church that I take ever read. It is based in solid inquiry past an adept author who knows her field but knows how to communicate with those who don't. It is written in such an humble, approachable way that anyone tin can appreciate it. This would brand a peachy book for leadership groups, reconciliation groups, or general classes for churches and organizations who want to grow in cross-cultural skills and do. This may be the single about accessible book dealing with racial issues affecting the church that I have ever read. It is based in solid inquiry past an good writer who knows her field but knows how to communicate with those who don't. It is written in such an humble, approachable style that anyone tin appreciate it. This would brand a dandy volume for leadership groups, reconciliation groups, or general classes for churches and organizations who want to grow in cantankerous-cultural skills and practice. I'm very grateful to have constitute this resource. I will be recommending information technology widely and keeping copies effectually to give away. ...more than

Jul nineteen, 2021 Nubia rated it actually liked it

It took me forever to finish this book because of the challenging truths it contais. As the liberal Christian I consider myself to be this read challenged me from page one. Even tough I don't concord with everything the author says, because some opinions are harmful like in one she speaks well-nigh clearing and how we should respect all sides of the argument without taking into account how harmful a mindset of "bring them to Jesus and deport them" can be. It seems to come from a place of privilege, It took me forever to finish this book because of the challenging truths it contais. As the liberal Christian I consider myself to be this read challenged me from page i. Fifty-fifty tough I don't agree with everything the writer says, considering some opinions are harmful like in 1 she speaks nearly immigration and how we should respect all sides of the argument without taking into account how harmful a mindset of "bring them to Jesus and deport them" can exist. It seems to come up from a place of privilege, since the opinions the others might take volition not affect her. That is one of the few problems I had with it. I'll exit with the most impactful quote for me: "Non only is Jesus serious near crossing boundaries to pursue united states, simply he'south likewise equally serious about our crossing boundaries to pursue others. He has shown us how to do information technology" ...more

Cleveland weaves her areas of expertise of folklore and theology to look at the underlying bug of disunity and self segregation. She explains the natural tendency to create in-groups and out-groups so appeals to the reader the reasons nosotros have to fight against these tendencies. She gives applied ways to counter this trend backed upwards past sociological research. She closes with the entreatment to whomever is in the seat of power and privilege to await to have to give something up (fourth dimension, exp Cleveland weaves her areas of expertise of sociology and theology to look at the underlying issues of disunity and cocky segregation. She explains the natural tendency to create in-groups and out-groups and then appeals to the reader the reasons we accept to fight confronting these tendencies. She gives applied ways to counter this tendency backed upwards by sociological research. She closes with the appeal to whomever is in the seat of power and privilege to await to accept to give something up (time, expense, power) if they truly want to see alter. Cleveland writes in such a way that her research is easy to understand and her logical conclusions from that inquiry are easy to follow, leaving the states with the challenge to put information technology into practice. ...more than

I must note that ane of the weakness of this book is that it does not requite enough attending to the reality of theological differences. Cleveland presents wonderful research about our blind spots as humans that create unnecessary division between Christians. She also mentions that she does not diminish the importance of theological differences, simply the amount of pages that she devotes to addressing this issues speaks of the reverse. Although the insight into our flaws that keep us apart sounds west I must annotation that one of the weakness of this book is that it does non give enough attention to the reality of theological differences. Cleveland presents wonderful inquiry about our blind spots every bit humans that create unnecessary division betwixt Christians. She also mentions that she does not diminish the importance of theological differences, but the amount of pages that she devotes to addressing this issues speaks of the reverse. Although the insight into our flaws that keep united states of america apart sounds wonderful I am left with the impression that Cleveland thinks that if just Christians in the past two centuries would take read this volume, in that location would be no divisions. Divisions in the church are more circuitous than emotional and spiritual immaturity. Something that could accept been helpful to do in a book like this is to nowadays the top arguments that Christians present in separating from other Christians and then refuting them. Some other path would be to talk about why theological differences are non significant reason for segmentation. ...more

This volume. 🙌🏼 This was 1 I read and studied with a church modest group final autumn, which I think is the fashion it should be read. The discussions we had (every bit Black, white, Hispanic, male/female, varied age believers) were challenging and rich and catalytic. I'yard and so grateful for the fashion nosotros were able to use this wise and thoughtful book as a launching point into actually honest, sometimes hard, incredibly helpful and hopeful conversations.

I could quote you dozens and dozens of lines and passages, just in

This book. 🙌🏼 This was i I read and studied with a church small group concluding autumn, which I think is the manner it should exist read. The discussions nosotros had (every bit Blackness, white, Hispanic, male/female person, varied age believers) were challenging and rich and catalytic. I'm so grateful for the manner we were able to use this wise and thoughtful book as a launching betoken into really honest, sometimes difficult, incredibly helpful and hopeful conversations.

I could quote you dozens and dozens of lines and passages, but instead, I'll recommend you read it yourself (with others!!) if y'all're a person of faith wondering how we do this work of reconciliation and rebuilding every bit a trunk of Christ.

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Some good information here, and it was a good jumping off indicate for discussion in our small grouping. Simply the author appears to be a amend researcher than writer. Very repetitive, and a bit dry out at times, just worth reading.

For those looking to build sociological literacy simply have no idea where to search or are too intimidated by dense articles, become here; Cleveland curates well.

This is an audience-centered read, specially if the audience is new to formal learning on the sociological dynamics of gimmicky Christian communities. For that audience, this is a thoroughly attainable and readable intro. It is accessible considering it establishes a sociological foundation via basic vocabulary, categories, and studies. Information technology

For those looking to build sociological literacy but have no thought where to search or are too intimidated by dumbo articles, go here; Cleveland curates well.

This is an audience-centered read, peculiarly if the audience is new to formal learning on the sociological dynamics of gimmicky Christian communities. For that audience, this is a thoroughly accessible and readable intro. Information technology is accessible because it establishes a sociological foundation via basic vocabulary, categories, and studies. It is readable because it uses a articulate and whimsically-edgy manner for story-telling and statistics-citing alike. Even the repetition in latter capacity proves useful for readers that are just commencement to recall sociologically.

This is perfect for a small-scale group, book discussion, etc. For those looking for more formal interaction (case studies, models, bibliographies, etc.), try The Elusive Dream: The Power of Race in Interracial Churches.

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Mar 09, 2019 Steph rated it really liked information technology

I'one thousand giving this iv.5 stars because information technology quite was a fantastic read. I desire to see Christena and exist friends with her! Her book sheds lite on the social, and sometimes clinical, reasons we separate ourselves from others that don't think like the states. Because I'one thousand all about psychology I truly appreciated the perspective she gave and her approach to this issue. I wish in that location'd been a bit more relating to faith and the church building, simply at the aforementioned fourth dimension I retrieve she addressed it so well that it worked in her favor. I'thousand giving this 4.5 stars because it quite was a fantastic read. I want to meet Christena and be friends with her! Her book sheds light on the social, and sometimes clinical, reasons we dissever ourselves from others that don't recall like u.s.a.. Because I'm all about psychology I truly appreciated the perspective she gave and her approach to this issue. I wish there'd been a chip more relating to faith and the church, just at the same time I think she addressed it so well that it worked in her favor.

That being said, I highly recommend this to anyone in the church - members, elders, bishops, pastors, youth leaders, etc., and everyone struggling to reconcile these issues that the church faces today.

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Jul 26, 2017 Amy Hughes rated information technology information technology was amazing

Convincing, insightful, and immensely helpful. Cleveland pastors us through stages of potentially difficult self- and communal reflection nigh our overriding impulses to split the body of Christ into "u.s." and "them." With compassion and directness she exposes our ecclesiology for what it is - not for what we want to believe it is. Her piece of work equally a social psychologist melds perfectly with the ecclesiological frame and sheds calorie-free on the ramifications of the way we treat one another. A great instance Disarming, insightful, and immensely helpful. Cleveland pastors us through stages of potentially hard self- and communal reflection about our overriding impulses to carve up the trunk of Christ into "us" and "them." With compassion and directness she exposes our ecclesiology for what it is - non for what we want to believe information technology is. Her work as a social psychologist melds perfectly with the ecclesiological frame and sheds lite on the ramifications of the way we treat one some other. A great case of practical theology! ...more

A Helpful Read

I found this to exist a helpful, idea-provoking, convicting, and hopeful book. It took me a while to go used to the frequent references to different studies and experiments, but it grew on me and I appreciated the intersection she brings betwixt social psychology and theology. It seems like even since she wrote this book, people are treating each other worse than always. But I experience convicted to baby-sit my language (both in "existent life" and online) especially in regard to other believer

A Helpful Read

I institute this to exist a helpful, thought-provoking, convicting, and hopeful book. It took me a while to get used to the frequent references to different studies and experiments, merely information technology grew on me and I appreciated the intersection she brings between social psychology and theology. It seems like even since she wrote this book, people are treating each other worse than e'er. But I feel convicted to baby-sit my language (both in "real life" and online) peculiarly in regard to other believers, even if I perceive there to be big differences between us. These concepts feel really important for our current cultural climate!

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January 19, 2022 Brenna Swope rated it really liked information technology

3.5 stars. Removed half a star because it did feel a fleck repetitive. This was a good, quick read and I did really enjoy it. It was fascinating reading nigh enquiry from social psychology on how humans interact as grouping, why we tend to seek out community with people who are like to us, and how this manifests in Christianity and how nosotros view churches and other Christian'south with different viewpoints from us. There was definitely some good things to recollect on especially with all the divisiveness h iii.5 stars. Removed half a star because information technology did experience a flake repetitive. This was a skilful, quick read and I did really enjoy information technology. It was fascinating reading near research from social psychology on how humans interact equally grouping, why nosotros tend to seek out community with people who are similar to the states, and how this manifests in Christianity and how nosotros view churches and other Christian's with different viewpoints from us. There was definitely some good things to think on especially with all the divisiveness happening these days. ...more than

This is an important book that approaches the divides in the church building from a psychological standpoint, showing just how prejudice and bias infect our congregations through seemingly benign actions. Dr. Cleveland's insights are a useful and unique addition to the conversation virtually diversity in the church building. She has convicting words for people from both ends of the political and theological spectrum, and I appreciated the thoroughness and thoughtfulness with which she laid out the evidence. This is an important book that approaches the divides in the church from a psychological standpoint, showing just how prejudice and bias infect our congregations through seemingly benign actions. Dr. Cleveland's insights are a useful and unique improver to the conversation almost diversity in the church. She has convicting words for people from both ends of the political and theological spectrum, and I appreciated the thoroughness and thoughtfulness with which she laid out the evidence. ...more

This book gave me new categories for explaining ingroups and outgroups. I have oftentimes felt afar from "other" Christians and didn't recognize my own biases and tendencies to have a us/then distinction. Cleveland paints a difficult but rewarding pic of what until volition accept and actually looks like. I hope I can begin to step outside my comfort zone and take her words to heart. This volume gave me new categories for explaining ingroups and outgroups. I have oft felt distant from "other" Christians and didn't recognize my ain biases and tendencies to have a usa/then distinction. Cleveland paints a difficult but rewarding picture show of what until will take and actually looks like. I promise I can begin to step outside my comfort zone and take her words to heart. ...more

Information technology was adept. Helpful. Honest. Express joy out loud Funny at points. I learned a lot and it put my listen at ease that I don't have to find people exactly like me to be happy. Information technology was skilful. Helpful. Honest. Laugh out loud Funny at points. I learned a lot and it put my mind at ease that I don't have to discover people exactly similar me to be happy. ...more

May 17, 2018 Kimberly rated it actually liked it

I actually appreciate the writer and her non-condescending give-and-take of this topic. She answered some lifelong questions I had, such as "Should we be colorblind in terms of race?"

Big picture, this is a really good book. I loved the examples from sociological enquiry. In that location was plenty to put into exercise.

Two complaints. One pocket-sized. One major.

Minor: The book was a chip repetitive. Information technology boiled down to a few big ideas and could've been shorter.

Major: She does not explain where nosotros should draw the line between groups. Considering sometimes we must.

Cleveland's goal is obviously to promote unity between diverse groups within the trunk of Christ. Her principal idea is to come across others as pa

Large pic, this is a really good book. I loved the examples from sociological enquiry. There was enough to put into practice.

Ii complaints. One pocket-sized. One major.

Minor: The book was a bit repetitive. Information technology boiled downwardly to a few large ideas and could've been shorter.

Major: She does not explain where nosotros should draw the line between groups. Because sometimes we must.

Cleveland'southward goal is evidently to promote unity between diverse groups within the trunk of Christ. Her main thought is to see others every bit part of "we" rather than "they." She gave lots of different examples of the cultural divisions that tin be overcome this way, including ethnicity, historic period, gender, marital condition, political viewpoints, etc. This was mostly great, simply there were times when she included things in the greater "we" that I thought should be excluded.

The main example that came up several times was people who are pro-life and people who are pro-choice. I can sympathize trying to unite people across viewpoints that are both acceptable under the large umbrella of Christianity. But in that location are boundaries. A pro-choice person may exist a member of the trunk of Christ (i.e. saved, belonging to God and God's people), only that doesn't hateful at that place viewpoint needs to be affirmed as a valid Christian option. It isn't simply a cultural barrier when ane person says, "That's murder," and some other person says it is not. That'southward a massive gap in moral understanding with grave consequences.

My principal point is not about abortion here. That example merely highlighted for me the question that I wish she had addressed. How do you know when you lot must depict lines between groups and/or exclude certain views/behaviors from existence adequate within a group? I'm not talking nigh being hostile or unkind towards people, but not anybody/everything fits in the "in group." There is an "out group" somewhere. How exercise I know who they are?

The apostles seemed to brand these kinds of distinctions between who was in and out of the customs. I think we divide over besides many things (and I am in enthusiastic understanding with Cleveland's projection). But I think some division protects the church building. So, I desire to know how to think through when that makes sense to practise.

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I didn't detect out until I was almost done this book that Cleveland has "decolonized" (apostatized?) her faith since publishing this book. That surely inverse how I read the ending. Her analysis of the psychological motivations that fuel partition were very insightful, simply I found her solutions to be self-defeating in most cases.

Insights:
- The enquiry most the superiority of diverse leadership teams to homogeneous ones was very compelling.
- The inquiry concerning the bidirectional effects of

I didn't detect out until I was almost washed this book that Cleveland has "decolonized" (apostatized?) her faith since publishing this book. That surely inverse how I read the ending. Her assay of the psychological motivations that fuel partition were very insightful, but I establish her solutions to exist cocky-defeating in nearly cases.

Insights:
- The research about the superiority of various leadership teams to homogeneous ones was very compelling.
- The research concerning the bidirectional effects of prejudice and separation was eye-opening!
- Her description of the outgroup homogeneity upshot was really helpful to requite words to why "we" care for "them" with so little grace.
- Her analysis of BIRGing (basking in reflected glory) and CORFing (cut off reflected failure) gave sociological terminology to a very prevalent miracle in all social relationships.

Bug:
Cleveland moves fluidly across a multifariousness of divisions we see in the church (race, class, political affiliation, theological view). However, her assay and application does not change when the topic changes. I found most problematic when she shifted to divisions over theology. She argues that nosotros should not be dividing over beliefs, simply pressing into our unity as the body of Christ. I find this cocky-defeating since the doctrine of the body of Christ IS a Christian doctrine that must be properly defined. She chastises for calling each other 'heretics' (I agree this term is oft overused over pocket-size doctrinal points), when nosotros are part of the ane trunk. And however this term is a technical 1 designed to draw those who take departed from definitional Christian doctrine. Rather than pursuing doctrinal unity by more careful report of Scripture where nosotros motility closer to Christ and truth, and a house understanding of the creeds and confessions where we tin can distinguish between primary, secondary, and tertiary doctrines, it seems that Cleveland would rather united states telephone call anybody "us" regardless of what the Lord has said through his Word.

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Sep 07, 2020 Drew Fajen rated it it was amazing

Disunity in Christ is a must-read book for any Christian leader in today's USA. Christena Cleveland shows, chapter afterwards affiliate, the ways we divide ourselves from each other and so presents solutions to these divisions. She has research, clinical studies, and slap-up sources in each chapter. Once read, this book can too serve as a wonderful bibliography for further research. She quotes some of my favorite authors, Soong-Chan Rah, Scot McKnight, and Miroslav Volf all in the aforementioned chapter, so tha Disunity in Christ is a must-read volume for any Christian leader in today'southward United states of america. Christena Cleveland shows, chapter after chapter, the ways we split up ourselves from each other and then presents solutions to these divisions. She has research, clinical studies, and great sources in each chapter. Once read, this book tin can also serve as a wonderful bibliography for further research. She quotes some of my favorite authors, Soong-Chan Rah, Scot McKnight, and Miroslav Volf all in the same affiliate, so that'southward also a plus.
Cleveland teaches various psychological theories and ideas of exclusion and disunity. She does so with humor, relatability, and scripture. This book dips into academia in a very warm, welcoming, and like shooting fish in a barrel to read way. I have never read a volume both as studious and every bit easy to read. Cleveland is a chief.
Near of Dr. Cleveland's solutions are variations on the same crucial theme: followers of Jesus demand to develop a common identity rather than dividing over our lesser identities. Nosotros must encounter each other as members of the same family rather than as opposing smaller identities. Christians need not divide over ethnic, political, or even theological purlieus lines, but rather, see each other every bit family members because of the reconciling work Jesus has done and because of the in dwelling house Holy Spirit. I deeply appreciate and resonate with the work Cleveland has done here and am then grateful to put much of her education to practice in my community. A few quotes:

"Focusing on shared characteristics and taking the perspective of the other are small but powerful steps that will lead us toward unity." 77

"When we categorize, not only do nosotros draw a very clear line between those who are like usa and those who are not like usa, but we also tend to call up that all of the people who are not like u.s. are the aforementioned. Information technology'south not just that they are all different from us; they are all different in the same way." 51

"Rather than perceiving the body of Christ as i large group, we oftentimes perceive numerous singled-out groups within the torso of Christ... by focusing on smaller, distinct categories for church building groups, nosotros erect and fixate on divisions that are far less important than the larger, diverse group of members of the torso of Christ." 49

"If we want to know how to embody the household of God, we demand look no farther than to Jesus. While on earth, Jesus modeled this new reality by connecting with every type of person around— bourgeois theologians, liberal theologians, prostitutes, divorcees, children's, politicians, people who party difficult, military servicemen, women, lepers, ethnic minorities, celebrities and so forth— and inviting them to be role of his grouping and to work together to bring wholeness to their croaky and crumbling world." 37

"Jesus pursues is despite theological differences, his theology is more comprehensive and accurate than any of ours. He too pursued us despite cultural differences; he's holy, nosotros're sinful— that's a pretty significant 'cultural' difference. Finally, the incarnation is evidence that he pursues u.s.a. despite concrete differences. His actions and words suggest that he is serious about our connecting, in spite of physical, cultural, and theological differences." 36

"To the extend that I accept the work of the cross every bit my invitation to participate in the self-giving intimacy of the Trinity, I must be prepared to comprehend self-giving intimacy with the 'other.' To partake in the sacrificial beloved with all others, not just the ones who are part of my homogenous Christian group." 35

On grouping polarization, "In the absence of various influences, homogenous group members tend to adopt more farthermost and bigoted thinking as time passes." 27

"People can see God within their cultural context but in gild to follow God, they must cross into other cultures because that's what Jesus did in the incarnation and on the cross. Discipleship is cross-cultural." 21

"Rather than using his power to distance himself from usa, Jesus uses it to approach united states of america. " 16

"Jesus doesn't distance himself from me even though, allow'south face information technology, I'm non always proficient for PR. I can do the same for other Christians." 17

On social identity theory, "when it comes to group membership, nosotros practice iv things to maintain positive cocky-esteem: (1) we tend to gravitate toward and form groups with similar others; (two) once the grouping is formed we engage in group-serving biases that defend the group'south positive identity; (3) nosotros try to increase our status by associating with higher-status groups and distancing ourselves from lower-status groups; and (four) if all else fails nosotros literally disparage other groups because in doing and so, we elevate our own group." 84-85

"I call back that this picture of a good for you marriage is a great model of how the torso of Christ should work. Theoretically, married people can't quit a marriage. In the same way, theoretically, Christians can't quit the body of Christ. Our commitment to the other members of the body of Christ should grump our desire to CORF (cutting off reflected failure) when the going gets tough and it would be better for our self-esteem if nosotros just walked away— similar when nosotros disagree on an important event or when the other group's heart isn't in the right place and they hurt u.s., or when the other group speaks a different language. Our submission to God, irrevocable commitment to each other, and interdependence should hold united states together when nosotros want to distance ourselves from Christians who fail to live usa to our gold standards or who complicate our lives." 95

"We need to adopt the belief that to be a follower of Christ means to care deeply almost and pursue other followers of Christ, including the ones that nosotros don't instinctively value or like. We demand to adopt the belief that to be a follower of Christmeans to allow our identity as members of the trunk of Christ to trump all other identities. We need to adopt the belief that to be a follower of Chris means to put our commitment to the body of Christ above our own identity and self-esteem needs. We've coped with our divisions long enough. It's time for us to detect our true identities as members of the family of God. It's time for us to rally around this identity, overcome our divisions, and change the world. In sum, it's time for us to alter the way nosotros come across ourselves." 97-98

"When my identity is rooted in the right place, I'thou able to listen to opposing viewpoints equally a member of the body of Christ: with humility, with an eagerness to learn from a different point of view, with a want to connect across cultural lines, with conviction in my identity and without fear." 115

"Within the context of the larger body of Christ, when we interact with fellow Christians who possess a different cultural viewpoint or tradition, nosotros are often interacting with what we perceive to be black sheep. Due to the gold standard outcome, we believe that our culturally influenced beliefs and practices are the best ones and that our cultural group should be the standard against which all other cultural groups should exist measured. Every bit a effect of this thinking, anyone who disagrees with usa is perceived as someone who is declining to live upward to the cultural grouping's standards— a black sheep.
The mere being of these so-called blackness sheep threatens to blur what we perceive to exist the of import behavior and practices that differentiate Christians from everyone else. Rather than remaining cognitively open to our culturally different fellow followers of Christ who might offer a much-needed perspective, we dig out heels in and seek cognitive closure. In doing and so, we tell ourselves that these people are blackness sheep who deserve the black sheep treatment— and we are happy to oblige by calling them heretics." 131

"As nosotros brainstorm to modify the way nosotros see ourselves— through adopting more than inclusive linguistic communication, doing self-affirmation exercises that remind us of common membership in the torso of Christ, and overriding the furnishings of natural categorizing— nosotros will begin to meet that they are role of usa. One time they go us, they will no longer be threatening... nosotros volition be able to prepare aside our fearfulness of ambiguity, relax our competitive opinion, and prefer a promotion orientation that enables u.s. to lean in to hear from a culturally different viewpoint, rather than recoil in fear." 136-137

"Without (crosscultural) contact, our errors continue to go unchallenged and often begin to take on lives of their ain. As a bonus, contact reduces the feet that people might have nearly interacting with other groups... cross cultural contact works it's magic by (1) requiring people to meet different group members as individuals, rather than nameless, faceless members of a cultural grouping, and (2) creating a context in which the 2 different groups are encouraged to grade a common identity... individuals who engage in cross-cultural contact are much more probable to see members of different cultural groups in accurate, cognitively generous means and to expand their category of us to include those whom they used to consider outgroup members." 154-55

"I will lose my will to stay in the fight if I lose sight of the painful toll that Christ endured in order to reconcile himself to me. I will lose my will to stay in the fight if I lose sight of the face that fifty-fifty the about seemingly ineffective reconciliation work lives on in the ability of the resurrection and will one day have its intended impact. If our piece of work is not rooted in the power of the cross, nosotros will inevitably quit." 156-157

"Four elements are needed for positive cross-cultural interaction: (1) working toward a larger goal, (two) creating equal status, (three) engaging in personal interaction and (4) providing leadership." 158

"When nosotros enter crosscultural situations with the belief that our cultural group is holding one piece to the puzzle, nosotros can confidently brand our own contribution while besides looking for and valuing the contributions that other groups brand, and as a issue, the barriers between us and them begin to fall downwardly." 162

"Before 2 groups can enjoy renewed, good for you friendship, past wrongs must be made right through repentance, forgiveness, and the render of stolen commodities (such as power, land, condition, coin). This might exist the most difficult element to successfully pull off because it requires that both groups (especially the college-status group) recognize any power or status differences that exist between them, repent for them and make a unified, concerted endeavour to erase them in the context of the crosscultural situation and beyond." 166

"Mattering and marginality cost on opposite ends of a continuum, such that the more an private feels like she matters and is empowered, the less she feels marginalized and disempowered, and vice versa." 168

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Jun xiv, 2019 Tanner Militarist rated it actually liked it

I experience like this is a must-read for anyone who wants to appoint in reconciliation work. Honey the style Cleveland combines folklore, theology, and personal stories to lay out clear, simple only challenging steps to work toward unity. I besides just found the studies she discussed fascinating.

"Jesus talked sheep to shepherds, fish to fishermen, and bookish theology to academic theologians. He was all things to all people. I call back that our differences enable the states to speak richly and directly to the hearts o

I feel like this is a must-read for anyone who wants to engage in reconciliation work. Honey the way Cleveland combines sociology, theology, and personal stories to lay out clear, simple only challenging steps to work toward unity. I also only found the studies she discussed fascinating.

"Jesus talked sheep to shepherds, fish to fishermen, and academic theology to bookish theologians. He was all things to all people. I think that our differences enable united states of america to speak richly and straight to the hearts of all types of people...We often fail to make a stardom between evangelism and discipleship. People can MEET God within their cultural context merely in club to FOLLOW God, they must cross into other cultures because that's what Jesus did in the incarnation and on the cross. Discipleship is crosscultural" (p. 20-21).

"We must relentlessly set on inaccurate perceptions in everyday interactions, weekly sermons, denominational meetings and dinner table conversations...Nosotros need to turn off autopilot and take time to honestly examine our polluted perceptions...We must take active steps to expand our category of 'us' then that 'they' are at present included in 'usa'" (p. 61-62).

"Everyone wants diversity, but no i wants to actually be diverse...Churches and Christian organizations desire participants from diverse cultures but are too obsessed with their own civilisation to let diverse people to influence it. Rather, they crave diverse people to assimilate and bow downwardly to the ascendant civilisation" (p. 184).

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Apr 06, 2015 Sagely rated it liked information technology

In times of broad church disharmonize, returning to Jesus' control to love one another seems right. I've been dwelling house on what holds the states together. That and Paul's frequent, overflowing descriptions of the unity of the torso.

A friend recommended Christena Cleveland's Disunity in Christ to assistance me think through what drives us to interruption that unity. I'grand glad I read it, and I walk away with my understanding of grouping identity dynamics confirmed and even strengthened.

Cleveland opens DIC with a cleverly writte

In times of broad church conflict, returning to Jesus' command to love one some other seems right. I've been dwelling on what holds us together. That and Paul's frequent, overflowing descriptions of the unity of the body.

A friend recommended Christena Cleveland's Disunity in Christ to assistance me think through what drives u.s. to pause that unity. I'm glad I read information technology, and I walk away with my understanding of group identity dynamics confirmed and even strengthened.

Cleveland opens DIC with a cleverly written chapter. Unfortunately the quality of writing declines in the centre of the book. DIC references many social psychology studies (with the strangest endnote citation format I've always encountered!). These kind of studies make clever writing difficult, and Cleveland's writing in these chs reflects this challenge. It's readable and understandable, merely not delightful.

The very best part of DIC is the penultimate ch. Building on all of the social psychology of the chs 2-eight, Cleveland offers strategic how-to instruction for overcoming the forces that drive us autonomously. The book is worth the read if only for ch 9.

A useful book I'll folio through over again in coming days.

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Mar 08, 2016 Bob Wolniak rated it really liked it

This isn't nearly as negative equally the championship implies. In fact it is quite a positive and wonderful petty book which will make you express joy out loud at times and cringe at others when y'all meet yourself having made some of the typical mistakes nosotros apply to exclude and put downwards others. The writer is very easy to read and hard to put down. She applies some of the latest sociological research to explaining the factors that separate us and provides hopeful steps forrard in irresolute that dynamic. A must rea This isn't nearly as negative as the championship implies. In fact it is quite a positive and wonderful little book which volition make yous laugh out loud at times and blench at others when you see yourself having made some of the typical mistakes we utilise to exclude and put down others. The author is very easy to read and hard to put downwardly. She applies some of the latest sociological inquiry to explaining the factors that separate us and provides hopeful steps forward in changing that dynamic. A must read. I enjoyed having our new employees read and discuss information technology. In improver information technology is a pocket volume of cross-cultural and emotional IQ lessons as well. Very good discussion questions at the cease of each chapter forth with articulate and humble examples. ...more

Oct 29, 2013 Ryan Robinson rated it it was amazing

Probably the most important book I've read this year. Particularly every bit a Christian blogger, this was an absolutely vital reminder loaded with brilliant insight from the globe of social psychology. Christians take divided excessively and often look down on each other as inferior and possibly not actually Christians at all. Cleveland goes through a diverseness of psychological factors which contribute to this divisiveness. Most importantly, she offers physical communication - backed by research - on how to best over Probably the about important book I've read this yr. Especially as a Christian blogger, this was an absolutely vital reminder loaded with brilliant insight from the globe of social psychology. Christians have divided excessively and ofttimes look down on each other as inferior and maybe non really Christians at all. Cleveland goes through a diversity of psychological factors which contribute to this divisiveness. Most chiefly, she offers physical communication - backed by research - on how to best overcome these obstacles and so we can be the united body of Christ that God wants. ...more

Christena Cleveland is a social psychologist with a hopeful passion for reconciling across cultural divisions. She is the first Associate Professor of the Practice of Reconciliation at Duke University'south Divinity School where she is besides the faculty managing director of Duke's Centre for Reconciliation. Christena earned a B.A. from Dartmouth College and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barba Christena Cleveland is a social psychologist with a hopeful passion for reconciling across cultural divisions. She is the offset Associate Professor of the Practice of Reconciliation at Duke University'southward Divinity School where she is also the faculty manager of Duke's Center for Reconciliation. Christena earned a B.A. from Dartmouth College and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Her scholarly piece of work includes integrating social psychological perspectives on intergroup and intercultural processes with current reconciliation dilemmas inside the Christian church and the broader society. Her enquiry examines how culture influences theological/ideological approaches to peacemaking and reconciliation; how social processes, such as identity and self-esteem, impede a group's ability to reconcile with culturally-dissimilar groups; and how individual factors (east.m., professed theologies/ideologies) collaborate with social factors (e.1000., the status of i's social group) to allow certain individuals or groups to dominate others.

Christena has published her work in scholarly journals – such as Minor Grouping Research for which she received a 2011 Best Article award – as well as magazines – such every bit Christianity Today, which named her as 1 of 33 millennials leading the next generation of Christian faith.

In her volume, Disunity in Christ: Uncovering the Hidden Forces that Proceed United states Autonomously (Intervarsity Press, 2013), she examines and offers research-based strategies to overcome the nonconscious cerebral, emotional, and identity processes that pull Christians into homogeneous groups, fuel inaccurate perceptions of culturally-unlike others, contribute to an "Us vs. Them" mentality, stimulate intergroup prejudice and hostility, and ultimately inhibit reconciliation. The book received a 2013 Leadership Journal Volume Laurels. Christena is currently researching and writing The Priesthood of the Privileged, which investigates ability and inequality in the church, and proposes methods for addressing and reducing this equality as a pathway to reconciliation.

A 5th generation government minister, Christena comes from a long tradition of leadership in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) denomination, ranging from bishops to pastors to laypeople. She currently ministers in various ecumenical settings.

Christena is a lifelong Oakland A's fan and holds a quality cup of tea in high regard. She lives in Durham, North Carolina.

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"People tin can meet God within their cultural context but in social club to follow God, they must cross into other cultures because that'due south what Jesus did in the incarnation and on the cantankerous." — 8 likes

"The biases we hold confronting other groups have the ability to wreak havoc on our crosscultural interactions. Earlier we enter into such interactions, we must practise the difficult work of addressing our biases and blind spots." — 5 likes

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