Pastor JP Foster's New Book Helps Black Christians Reclaim Their Faith Identity
California pastor JP Foster released "The Gospel and My Black Skin: Confronting the Past, Reclaiming the Future" in May 2026. The book addresses why some Black Americans view Christianity as "the white man's religion" and uses historical evidence to show the African roots of early Christian theology. Foster draws on figures like Augustine to make the case that the gospel has always belonged to people of African descent.
California pastor JP Foster released a new book in May 2026 aimed at helping Black Christians work through historical objections to their faith.
"The Gospel and My Black Skin: Confronting the Past, Reclaiming the Future" addresses a question Foster hears often in urban ministry: how can Black people follow a religion that was used to justify slavery?
Foster does not sidestep the question. He walks through the history of slavery, colonialism, and Jim Crow-era politics and acknowledges the real harm done in the name of Christianity. But he also points to evidence that Christianity is not inherently a "white man's religion."
He highlights the African roots of early Christian theologians, including Augustine of Hippo, who was born in North Africa. Foster also traces the gospel's role in abolitionist movements and the civil rights era, arguing that the same faith used to oppress was also used to liberate.
The book falls within the growing field of urban apologetics, which focuses on answering faith objections common in Black and urban communities. Christianity Today covered the book's release in May 2026, noting its relevance for pastors working with younger generations who are leaving the church.
Foster said he wrote the book after years of conversations with people who felt they had to choose between their racial identity and their Christian faith. His goal is to show that no such choice is necessary.
The book is available through major Christian retailers and online booksellers.
