Inspectional Reading (Fuller and Wallis)
Introduction
This week’s reading assignment is inspectional readings/review of the following books:
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- Dreaming In Black And White
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- High Ceilings: Women in Leadership
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- God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It
Dreaming in Black and White by Brett Fuller
I was curious about the graphics on the book cover. The title, ‘Dreaming in Black and White,’ represents the dual themes of race and faith, central to Brett Fuller’s message. Fuller explores the intersection of race and faith, emphasizing the importance of a faith-driven approach to addressing racial injustice. Fuller, drawing from his experiences as an African American pastor and leadership coach, argues that spiritual growth and racial reconciliation are deeply intertwined.
Key Takeaways
Dreaming in Black and White is about believing for creating and capturing iconic moments of resolve and healing.[1] He emphasizes the importance of believing in the process of creating and capturing meaningful moments. The phrase suggests that dreaming—whether metaphorical or literal—can lead to significant personal growth and healing. By focusing on “black and white,” he may be highlighting the clarity that comes from confronting life’s challenges directly, stripping away distractions to reveal essential truths. His message revolves around finding strength and resolution through the act of belief and the intentional creation of impactful experiences.
Questions for Brett Fuller:
- What inspired you to write chapter 4, More Like Heaven Than Like Me?
- How do you hope readers will apply the insights from your book to their own lives?
High Ceilings: Women in Leadership by Brett Fuller
According to the author, Brett Fuller, this book, High Ceilings: Women in Leadership is about the experiences and challenges women face as they rise to leadership positions, particularly within the church. Fuller made the point that women bring distinct strengths to leadership roles and should be given every opportunity to lead based on their gifts, capacity, and talents. In addition to his pastoral role, Fuller is also a prominent pastor and author, currently serving as the senior pastor of Grace Covenant Church in Chantilly, Virginia, where he has led the congregation for over 30 years. He is also the presiding Bishop of Every Nation’s family of churches in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. [2]
Key Takeaway
Complementary-Egalitarian – Fuller emphasizes that “within the bonds of matrimony and family, men and women have different but complementary roles and responsibilities. Outside of the familial context, positions of authority and responsibility should be equally available to females as well as males.” [3]
High Ceilings – This concept challenges the metaphor of the “glass ceiling,” which represents the invisible barriers that prevent women from reaching top leadership positions. Instead, “High Ceilings” promotes the notion that women should be able to achieve their full potential in leadership roles, particularly within the church.[4]
Bible Support – “By God’s admis-sion, Adam was the one who needed help, not Eve; and God’s assistance for him was a woman (Gen 2:15).[5] …And God provided the best version of strength He could imagine: Eve![6] When I shared this statement with my husband, he said, most definitely.
Questions for Brett Fuller:
- How has the book been received by your congregation and the broader Christian community?
- Have you seen any changes or shifts in attitudes towards women in leadership since the book’s publication?
God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It by Jim Wallis
I struggled to read this book. I avoid talking about politics and secondly, I do not care to view God through the lens of politics. Surprisingly, I liked this book, God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It by Jim Wallis. [7]
Wallis is an American evangelical leader, theologian, and author known for his progressive views on faith and politics. He is the founder and chief executive officer of Sojourners, a Christian organization focused on social justice, peace, and community development. Wallis has been a prominent voice in discussions about the intersection of faith and public life, contributing to various media outlets and engaging in advocacy work. His perspective combines a deep commitment to his Christian faith with a strong focus on social justice, making him a significant figure in contemporary religious and political discourse. Additionally, Wallis critiques both conservative and liberal approaches to politics, arguing that faith should inform a commitment to social justice rather than align strictly with partisan agendas. He emphasizes the need for a moral vision that transcends political divides, calling for Christians to advocate for issues like poverty, immigration reform, and environmental stewardship.
Key Takeaways
Chapter 13, “The Poor You Will Always Have with you?” [8] explores into the role of faith in public life and how it can be a force for social justice and reconciliation. Wallis argues that both the political right and left have failed to fully integrate moral and religious values into their policies in a way that promotes the common good. In this chapter, Wallis emphasizes the importance of a prophetic voice in politics—one that challenges both sides to rise above partisan divides and work towards justice, peace, and the well-being of all people. He calls for a new kind of politics that is rooted in compassion, humility, and a commitment to the marginalized and oppressed.
Wallis discusses the need for a moral vision that transcends political ideologies and focuses on the core values of love, justice, and community. He believes that faith communities have a crucial role to play in advocating for policies that reflect these values and in holding political leaders accountable. This chapter is a call to action for believers to engage in the political process in a way that is consistent with their faith and to work towards a more just and compassionate society.
Questions for Jim Wallis:
- What advice would you give to young activists who are trying to navigate the complexities of faith and politics today?
- How do you respond to critics like me who argue that faith should remain separate from politics?
[1] Brett Fuller, Dreaming in Black and White, (United States: Brett E. Fuller), 2021, 17.
[2] “About: Brett Fuller,” Grace Chantilly, last modified September 24, 2024, https://www.gracecov.org/BrettFuller.
[3] Fuller, 6.
[4] High Ceilings: Women in Leadership – Every Nation, https://www.everynation.org/upcp_product/high-ceilings-women-in-leadership
[5] Fuller, High Ceilings, 30.
[6] Fuller, High Ceilings, 31.
[7] Jim Wallis, God’s Politics: Why The Right Gets It Wrong, And The Left Doesn’t Get It, (San Francisco: Zondervan, 2005).
[8] Wallis, 209.
About the Author
Shela Sullivan
Born and raised on the vibrant Penang Island in Malaysia. "Mari Makan!!" — a cherished Malaysian greeting that reflects the warmth of shared meals. Since 1996, I have called Oregon, my home. I enjoy the raindrops and the serenity of its beaches. The ocean connects me to nature and energizes me. I hold Bachelor's in Business & Marketing from University of Phoenix, Master's in Spiritual Formation from George Fox University and Congressional Leadership (Lay Pastoral) Certificate from Dubuque Theological Seminary. I work as a Category Manager for a power utility company and serve as an ordained Presbyterian Traveling Pastor. My aspirational career goal is to become an inspirational speaker. I reside with my husband, David Sullivan, and our fur-baby, Rolo. Our shared passions include traveling, exploring diverse cuisines, home improvements and classic cars. Favorite Bible Verse: Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. ~ Psalm 37:4 ~9 responses to “Inspectional Reading (Fuller and Wallis)”
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Hi Sheila, can you say more about your argument that faith and politics should remain separate?
Wow, where do I start? Love the question, Christy.
I want to be specific that I am referring to Christian faith, and not just faith.
In my perspective, the separation of Christian faith and politics is a topic with deep historical, ethical, and practical implications. I am very passionate about this question, so I am giving a summary here (safe you from reading another post 😊)
• Preservation of Religious Freedom: Keeping faith and politics separate helps me ensure that no single religion is given preferential treatment by the government, especially in the US. There is no consideration to other religious beliefs (kind of shallow if you ask me) This protects the religious freedom of all citizens, allowing them (like my parents who are Hindus) to practice their faith without government interference.
• Avoiding Religious Coercion: When politics and religion are intertwined, there is a risk of coercion, where individuals might feel pressured to conform to certain religious beliefs to participate fully in public life. Separation helps prevent this, ensuring that political decisions are made based on common civic values rather than specific religious doctrines, for example take the beliefs of Native American. They were forced brutally to accept Christianity. Is it Possible to Separate Your Politics from Your Faith? (crosswalk.com)
• Focus on Universal Values: Politics often involves making decisions that affect people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. In my discretion By keeping religion separate, political decisions can be based on universal values such as justice, equality, and human rights, which are more inclusive and applicable to everyone.
• Preventing Religious Conflicts: History has shown that when religion and politics mix, it can lead to conflicts and even violence. I come from a harmonious community in Malaysia. We deliberately separate these two to reduce conflict and to promote a peaceful and stable society and friendship. Everything does not need to be argued.
• Integrity of Religious Institutions: When religious institutions become too involved in politics, they risk losing their spiritual focus and moral authority. Churches, temples, mosques should maintain they are integrity and continue to provide moral and ethical guidance without being tainted by political agendas.
• Ethical Governance: Politicians are elected to serve all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. This ensures that governance is based on ethical principles that serve the common good rather than specific religious doctrines.
Hey Shela! Thanks for your insight. Can you give me more about your perspective on faith staying away from politics?
Just saw that Christy asked you that. We will take a 1 for 2 answer here. (smile)
Hi Daren,
Yes, same question as Christy. So, I am using the ‘copy and paste function’. As I responded to Christy, I love this question – glad to repeat.
I want to be specific that I am referring to Christian faith, and not just faith.
In my perspective, the separation of Christian faith and politics is a topic with deep historical, ethical, and practical implications. I am very passionate about this question, so I am giving a summary here (safe you from reading another post 😊)
• Preservation of Religious Freedom: Keeping faith and politics separate helps me ensure that no single religion is given preferential treatment by the government, especially in the US. There is no consideration to other religious beliefs (kind of shallow if you ask me) This protects the religious freedom of all citizens, allowing them (like my parents who are Hindus) to practice their faith without government interference.
• Avoiding Religious Coercion: When politics and religion are intertwined, there is a risk of coercion, where individuals might feel pressured to conform to certain religious beliefs to participate fully in public life. Separation helps prevent this, ensuring that political decisions are made based on common civic values rather than specific religious doctrines, for example take the beliefs of Native American. They were forced brutally to accept Christianity. Is it Possible to Separate Your Politics from Your Faith? (crosswalk.com)
• Focus on Universal Values: Politics often involves making decisions that affect people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. In my discretion By keeping religion separate, political decisions can be based on universal values such as justice, equality, and human rights, which are more inclusive and applicable to everyone.
• Preventing Religious Conflicts: History has shown that when religion and politics mix, it can lead to conflicts and even violence. I come from a harmonious community in Malaysia. We deliberately separate these two to reduce conflict and to promote a peaceful and stable society and friendship. Everything does not need to be argued.
• Integrity of Religious Institutions: When religious institutions become too involved in politics, they risk losing their spiritual focus and moral authority. Churches, temples, mosques should maintain they are integrity and continue to provide moral and ethical guidance without being tainted by political agendas.
• Ethical Governance: Politicians are elected to serve all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs. This ensures that governance is based on ethical principles that serve the common good rather than specific religious doctrines.
Hi Shela, thanks for your post. It’s always interesting to read the view of my classmates even on these inspectional readings. In your context, how would the voice of faith act like a prophetic voice to the political powers?
Hi Graham,
Loved your question – thank you for such a meaningful. My reply to your question is based on Christian faith and scriptures that act as a prophetic voice to political powers, advocating for justice, ethical governance, repentance, and peace. The Bible provides numerous examples of how the voice of Christian faith can act as a prophetic voice to political powers. Here are some of my perspectives:
Speaking Truth to Power: Biblical prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos confronted rulers with messages of justice and righteousness, challenging corruption and urging leaders to follow God’s will. A notable example is Nathan’s confrontation of King David over his sin with Bathsheba, highlighting the prophets’ role in holding leaders accountable.
Advocating for Justice and Compassion: Biblical prophets often emphasized the importance of justice, mercy, and compassion. Micah 6:8 emphasizes, And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” This prophetic voice calls political leaders to prioritize the well-being of the marginalized and oppressed.
Guiding Ethical Governance: Prophets provided guidance on ethical governance, urging leaders to govern with integrity and fairness. For instance, Daniel served in the courts of Babylonian and Persian kings, offering wisdom and guidance that shaped the course of entire empires (Daniel 2:48). His role was both spiritual and political, showing that God’s people can influence leadership at the highest levels.
Calling for Repentance and Renewal: Prophets often called for repentance and a return to God’s ways. This is seen in the ministry of John the Baptist, who called people, including political leaders, to repent and prepare for the coming of the Lord (Matthew 3:1-12). This aspect of the prophetic voice emphasizes the need for moral and spiritual renewal in political leadership.
Promoting Peace and Reconciliation: The prophetic voice also promotes peace and reconciliation. Jesus, referred to as the Prince of Peace, taught about loving enemies and seeking reconciliation (Matthew 5:9, 5:44). This message challenges political powers to pursue peace and resolve conflicts through dialogue and understanding.
Hi Shela, I appreciated your husband’s response concerning your comments on Genesis chapter 2. He is a wise man! I am curious about your experience in Malaysia concerning women in spiritual leadership and what that looked like. Did anything change for you when you moved to the United States?
Hi Shela. Great thoughts, thank you. Based on our readings, how can individuals practically navigate their faith in public life without aligning strictly with partisan divides, especially in today’s highly polarised political environment?