Black Quote by James H. Cone
“The coming of Christ means a denial of what we thought we were. It means destroying the white devil in us. Reconciliation to God means that white people are prepared to deny themselves (whiteness), take up the cross (blackness) and follow Christ (black ghetto).”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Cross and the Lynching Tree by James H. Cone, 2011
Christ’s message requires white people to renounce privilege and identify with Black suffering, embracing solidarity.
In simple terms: White people must deny privilege and follow Christ’s path of solidarity.
Renounce privilege and stand with the oppressed.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- church leadership
- racial reconciliation
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true solidarity look like?
- How can faith communities foster genuine racial healing?
Some may view this as demanding self‑denial rather than mutual respect.