Gracism

ECPA Christian Book Awards 'The parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor.' 1 Corinthians 12:23 When people deal with color, class or culture in a negative way, that's racism. But the answer is not to ignore these as if they don't matter. Instead, we can look at color, class and culture in a positive way. That's gracism. Pastor David Anderson responds to prejudice and injustice with the principle of gracism: radical inclusion for the marginalized and excluded. Building on the apostle Paul's exhortations in 1 Corinthians 12 to honor the weaker member, Anderson presents a biblical model for showing special grace to others on the basis of ethnicity, class or other social distinction. He offers seven sayings of the gracist with practical examples for building bridges and including others. A Christian alternative to secular models of affirmative action or colorblindness, gracism is an opportunity to extend God's grace to people of all backgrounds. Now in paper!

Dr. David A. Anderson is the founder and senior pastor of Bridgeway Community Church in Columbia, Maryland. He is also president of the BridgeLeader Network, a diversity consulting firm, and a radio talk-show host in the nation's capital. His books include Gracism: The Art of Inclusion and Multicultural Ministry Handbook.