Why does Christian faith endure—especially in the face of suffering and injustice?

In honor of Black History Month, this episode of The Clark Report explores how Christian faith has sustained hope across generations, even in the most difficult chapters of American history. We’re joined by Dr. Walter Strickland II—pastor, theologian, and seminary professor—for a rich conversation on faith, resilience, and the gospel.

Drawing from Scripture and history, Dr. Strickland unpacks five enduring anchors of Christian belief among African Americans: trust in a powerful God, the nearness of Jesus in suffering, the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, the authority of the Bible, and the hope of deliverance. These themes have shaped the faith of countless believers and offer wisdom for anyone seeking hope in hard times.

This conversation invites listeners of every background to reflect on:

-How faith survives suffering

-Why Christianity continues to thrive under pressure

-What the gospel offers in times of injustice, grief, and uncertainty

Whether you’re engaging Black History Month intentionally or simply asking big questions about faith and hope, this episode points us to a Christ-centered story that continues to shape lives.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Role of Faith in Black America

02:40 Five Anchors of Black Christianity

10:38 The Significance of Jesus in Black Faith

13:38 Conversion and Walking in the Spirit

17:12 The Impact of the Bible on Black Experience

20:01 The Theme of Deliverance in Scripture

22:51 The Future of the Black Church

24:12 The Word in 7

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[The opinions expressed on this podcast by John and Val Clark are our own, and not necessarily those of our guests.]

Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.