"Baptists in North America is an excellent resource for
undergraduates, seminary students, and general readers "who have an
interest in Baptist history. Baptist churches should hold Baptist
heritage seminars, utilizing this book as the primary text."
(
Baptist History and Heritage, Fall 2010)
?
Baptists in North America ? a stellar
accomplishment ? is the result of a life of Baptist
churchmanship and Baptist scholarship. Who in the world knows more
about Baptists in North America than William Brackney??
William B. Shurden, The Center for Baptist Studies, Mercer
University
?Given the astonishing diversity of Baptist life and
thought, not to mention the subtle but real differences between
American and Canadian culture, few scholars could write a
meaningful history of Baptists in North America, but Bill Brackney
has done it. The author has a firm grasp of the chronological and
institutional details but also shows his ability to interpret
thematically the big picture. This is a valuable piece of
work.? Stanley K. Fowler, Heritage Theological
Seminary
"Brackney (Baylor Univ.) is one of the foremost scholars of
Baptists in North America. Out of that expertise he has produced
this new history, which, impressively, is comprehensive yet concise
enough not to overwhelm the reader. That makes it ideal for college
undergraduates or divinity school students. Brackney analyzes the
traditional, distinctive characteristics of Baptists, such as their
attention to a believer's church, separation of church and state,
soul freedom, and local church autonomy. However, he also describes
the process of how Baptists have moved toward denominationalism
over the last several centuries. This book will be a valuable
addition to any library and can be an excellent resource for the
classroom as well.Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level
undergraduates through faculty/researchers; general readers. --
G. Jonas, Campbell University, Choice
"The African American churches need less absolutizing in order
to undertake their great task of addressing the still rampant
inequality and structural racism that criminalizes so many of their
young males and reduces others to passivity. A radical gospel is
needed more than ever, and it is to be hoped that this book will
stimulate research to galvanize the churches into reflective
action."
Theological Book Review