Description
A Call to Justice and Courage
In a world where power often masquerades as piety and oppression wears the cloak of righteousness, Deconstructing Power and Isms within the Church and Society delivers an unflinching examination of the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
Drawing from scripture, personal experiences, and historical insights, Rev. Dr. Christine Smith reveals how the intersections of racism, sexism, and classism persist in sacred and secular spaces alike. From the rise of false piety following the Obama presidency to the structural barriers marginalized communities face, this transformative work illuminates the hidden dynamics of power that fuel division and inequity.
But this is not just a story of oppression—it's a call to action. With testimonies of resilience, strategies for change, and thought-provoking discussion questions, Smith equips readers to dismantle oppressive structures and build a more just and compassionate world.
Discover how to:
- Recognize and challenge the misuse of scripture and authority.
- Uplift marginalized voices to expose systemic inequities.
- Embrace actionable strategies for justice and equality in your community.
Whether you're a church leader, activist, or concerned citizen, Deconstructing Power and Isms within the Church and Society invites you to confront uncomfortable truths, spark meaningful dialogue, and become a catalyst for change.
Reviews
“In Deconstructing Power and Isms within the Church and Society, Rev. Dr. Christine A. Smith delivers a searing, spirit-led call to action that courageously confronts false piety, systemic injustice, and the entanglement of power with religion and politics. With theological depth, prophetic clarity, and lived experience, Smith offers not only a diagnosis of our times but a roadmap for justice, healing, and authentic discipleship. This is not just a book—it is a movement manifesto for those committed to truth, equity, and liberation in both sacred and secular spaces. A must-read for all who believe faith must engage the realities of oppression with love and righteous resistance.” —Rev. Dr. Debora Jackson, Dean, Worcester Polytechnic Institute Business School, Author of Meant for Good: Fundamentals of Womanist Leadership and Spiritual Practices for Effective Leadership: The Seven R’s of Sanctuary for Pastors.
Author Bio
Christine A. Smith, PhD, MDiv, is senior pastor of Restoration Ministries of Greater Cleveland and author of Beyond the Stained Glass Ceiling: Equipping and Encouraging Female Pastors (Judson Press). In 2024, Dr. Smith became director of the Rudd Empowerment Center at American Baptist Women's Ministries (ABWM)-a hub to advance leadership, empowerment, and educational opportunities for women and their families. In 2025, Dr. Smith was called as associate executive director of ABWM.