Written as a wake-up
call to those in danger of falling into spiritual
lethargy, this collection of essays has maintained
its relevance as we confront the recurring
challenges of living sanctified lives in a
sin-drenched world. Like its predecessor (We've
Come This Far by Faith), The Faith
Factor will continue to encourage Christians to
remain faithful to the God who has supported them
through the turbulent past and sustains them in the
tentative present.
As a result of
engaging this book, the reader will develop the
inner strength to counter the challenges of being
Black in contemporary society. If the principles
discussed in this book are put into practice,
individuals and entire communities will be empowered
to adapt a course of self-determination for their
future.
While The Faith
Factor addresses issues that affect the Black
community, it also serves as a useful tool for
non-Blacks who are seeking to gain a deeper
understanding of our struggles, survival, and
steadfastness. I have no doubt that every
open-minded reader will be spiritually rewarded. As
you carefully select resources to help you navigate
through the storms of life, I pray that The Faith
Factor will earn its status as an indispensable
addition to your Christian library.
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R E V I E W S
& E N D O R S E M E N T S
"In this
readable, timely and provocative volume, Dr. Keith
Burton provides a wake-up call from spirituality as
usual for contemporary Christians. With unusual
candor and clarity, he provides a much-needed
critique of the challenges of race and poverty in
contemporary society and outlines a
biblically-based, practical agenda to address social
ills at their roots. While acknowledging the
structures of evil in society, Dr. Burton calls for
a radical redefinition of blackness and provides a
clarion call to personal responsibility. Moreover,
he outlines specific strategies to achieve social
justice. Simply put, this is an outstanding book
that asks the tough questions and offers real
answers. It should be read, carefully studied, and
widely discussed. It is a must read for every black
family and anyone interested in making the gospel
message real in the 21st Century."—David R.
Williams, Ph.D., M.P.H., M.Div. Harold Cruse
Collegiate Professor of Sociology and Epidemiology;
Senior Research Scientist, University of Michigan
(Ann Arbor, Michigan)
"Keith
Burton thinks and writes big–on gut issues–with
insight. People need empowerment. People need
knowledge to be empowered. People need discipline to
obtain knowledge. People need a sense of self worth
and an awareness of reality to make this journey.
Burton doesn’t let us off easy. He prompts and
challenges us. Do yourself a favor–read The Faith
Factor. Crack a few brain cells."—Charles
Bradford, D.D. Author, Sabbath Roots: The African
Connection (Springhill, Florida)
"The
Faith Factor is a must read for any serious student
of the Scriptures. Dr. Burton is a deep thinker,
creative writer, and practical preacher with the
ability to take a text and extract fresh insights
that really hit home!" James R. Doggette, D.Min.
Associate Professor of Practical Ministry, Oakwood
College (Huntsville, Alabama)
"In an
age when racism is more subtle than ever in modern
America, Dr. Burton gives hope to, affirms, and
empowers Blacks. This book of eight powerful sermons
is positive. Yet, without mincing words, he reckons
with the injustices and oppression that the Black
person faces daily, and gives solid biblical and
sociological solutions to the problems."—Pedrito
Maynard-Reid, Th.D. Vice-President for Spiritual
Life and Mission, Walla Walla College (Walla Walla,
Washington)
"In his
book, The Faith Factor, Dr. Burton provides
credible direction for the global "African
Diaspora." Dr. Burton posits a spirituality for 21st
Century African descendants that is grounded in the
faith experiences in a God who provides insight and
empowerment for the faithful. The Faith Factor
is a clarion clear call to the "African
Diaspora" (cf. the village) to eliminate
self-absorbed leaders and affirm leaders who
increase the health of communal life. Burton's
intensive assessments of real problems, his
practical solutions, careful and credible depiction
of pluralism within the global Black community,
along with his historical notes and impassioned
interpretations of the same, result in The Faith
Factor being a worthy tool for leaders and
followers in and beyond "the African Diaspora."—Phillip
Stubbs, D.Min. Pastor, St. Michael’s Methodist
Church (Nassau, Bahamas)
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