I have been enthralled by Sho Baraka’s music since 2016 when I saw a live concert at Creation Festival Northeast and when I was introduced to his “The Narrative” album, especially the song, “Here” that became very popular during a mission trip.
The concept of the entire book is that we play a vital role in re-establishing “Good” in the world today. The Church is the means by which God is bringing goodness back into the world. It won’t happen until Christ’s return, but we are gifted NOW to bring Eden to earth as much as earthly possible. The whole book can be summed up by this one paragraph on page 35:
“…the narrative of God’s work doesn’t’ end with human sing or systemic injustice. The gospel plays a role in the redemption of our corrupted work. We can have hope in our ability to cultivate this world. If Jesus is redeeming all things, is he not asking for our work to be informed by the good news of his gospel?”
Baraka points out that ALL are called “epilego,” which means to choose, to name and “kletos,” which means invited or appointed. He poses the question that our theology around calling should emphasize need over desire.
The author also challenges typical white evangelicalism with black-american church culture. He brings Kendrick Lamar into the conversation by quoting lyrics from Lamar’s “Alright.” Baraka points out that Lamar’s reference to Nazareth was seen as the “hood” of Jesus’s day. “Like Lamar’s home, Nazareth was associated with poverty” (p. 75).
One of the most impactful chapters for me, personally, was chapter 7, “You Good?” Baraka takes an expository look at Romans 12, which includes a list of spiritual gifts as part of our creative calling. He ties this passage into seven essentials for effective engagement: Reject Idols (Including Yourself), join others for others, find the dignity in difference, repent and repair, be content, seek rest, and pursue excellence.
Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone looking at their lives as a calling from God for God’s Kingdom. I would also recommend this book to any white evangelical who desires to understand thinking beyond traditional teaching.
Our world is broken and Christians are trying to bring restoration through the gospel, empowered by the Spirit with gifts, talent and creativity. This book captures need, talks about the complexities of our society and then offers solutions for today.
Enjoy.
You can purchase “He Saw That It Was Good” by Sho Barak here.
