Bryan Loritts - Insider Outsider: My Journey As a Stranger In White Evangelicalism and My Hope for Us All

Insider Outsideris a smart, candid, and transparent reflection on the state of modern white evangelicalism in America. Bryan Loritts implores us to see and embrace the fullness and simplicity of the good news and to be brave enough to reject any counterfeits in the process.

DR. KORIE EDWARDS,associate professor of sociology at The Ohio State University and author of The Elusive Dream

The first time Bryan Loritts preached at our church, my eight-year-old daughter said, Dad, you should preach more like that guy. Bryan has an ability to communicate truth with a poignancy that challenges the seasoned believer and an accessibility that engages the eight-year-old. Insider Outsideris filled with provocative questions that at times made me squirm but need to be asked. We in the white evangelical community need to understand what is in the hearts of our brothers and sisters of color, and Bryan helps us see them from his unique vantage points. He serves up strong medicine on a bed of humor and personal illustration and with a blanket of genuine pastoral warmth. Prepare to be challenged, enlightened, and encouraged.

J.D. GREEAR, PHD,pastor of The Summit Church, Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, and president of the Southern Baptist Convention

If ever there was a time for this book, it is now. Bryan Lorittss voice in this critical conversation is informed, winsome, and challenging. Reading this with an open mind, a humble heart, and an intentional spirit truly may move us toward Gods kingdom on earth.

NANCY ORTBERG,CEO of Transforming the Bay with Christ

The diligent outside scholarship and inside insight required to make substantive commentary on sensitive issues such as race, with equal impact in both spiritual and social arenas, are laudable. Bryan Loritts again proves hes more than up for the task. We are edified and indeed rendered woke to some important concepts that have the potential to be game changers in this fraught epoch of the churchs calling. The battle for understanding and true equality surely includes what Bryan is uniquely qualified to providespiritual insight inspired and informed by solid scholarship.

KIRK WHALUM,saxophonist/composer

Being an African American serving in a predominantly Anglo denomination, I know firsthand how critical it is for different races to work together to accomplish Gods will in the church today. Insider Outsideris a must-read for those of us who desire the church to look and act like Gods church.

FRED LUTER,pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, New Orleans, and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention

Bryan Loritts is one of the most intelligent people Ive ever met. He is also deeply committed to Jesus, the church, and the gospel. This book will challenge you and make you uncomfortable, just like a good personal trainer does. If we are humble enough to listen to and love one another, Insider Outsiderhas the capacity to truly make a difference.

DR. DERWIN L. GRAY,lead pastor of Transformation Church and author of The High Definition Leader

Insider Outsideris biblically informed, intellectually brilliant, and desperately needed. Bryan Lorittss clear prophetic voice stands in the gap for generations of voiceless ethnic-minority Christians in America. With pastoral sensitivity and unwavering boldness, he calls Christs church to embrace real diversity by challenging us to reevaluate our worldview, repent of our sin, and embrace the rich diversity God has created for us, his people. This book is a must-read for all Christians.

PASTOR DOUG LOGAN JR.,director of the Diversity Initiative and codirector of Church in Hard Places, Acts 29 network; author of On the Block

Bryan Loritts is masterful in utilizing the power of story and an astute understanding of the times to unearth the darkness in the current culture. Insider Outsideris a must-read for those looking for poignant direction on hope for change and those aspiring to grow in unity.

CHRIS DAVIS,lead pastor of Redemption Church San Francisco