An African American Christology Based on an Archetypal Folk Chanted Sermon Close

ABSTRACT This essay discloses an African American Christology, derived from first-hand experience of the sermonic “close” in traditional Black “folk” preaching, which recounts the crucifixion, and celebrates the empty tomb. This African American Christology portrays Jesus as divinely conceived for the redemption of humanity through his earthly ministry, unjust suffering via crucifixion, subsequent resurrection, and his ultimate vindication. Jesus’ earthly ministry demonstrated solidarity with the oppressed and the brutal suffering of Jesus holds a particularly significant valance for the enslaved and their descendants. I argue that this resource can be deployed to respond to the current reality of challenges facing the African American and other marginalized communities.