Liberation Theology

The death of Nolan Wells invites difficult questions about belonging, justice, and the value of Black life in America. Through sociology, ethnography, theology, and liberation thought, this editorial reflects on the dignity of quiet leaders whose lives matter in the eyes of God.

The Word of Faith tradition has rightly emphasized that believers should not continually rehearse fear, defeat, hopelessness, or unbelief when Scripture has already declared the promises of God fulfilled in Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 1:20).²

The Kingdom of God did not begin in Egypt, Rome, Europe, or America. It began in Eden. This article argues that slavery, colonial domination, and every form of dehumanization represent humanity's rebellion against God's original design rather than His divine intention.

The Bible was not merely invited to the Juneteenth cookout. Its witness to the image of God, Exodus, justice, incarnation, and liberation helped Black communities preserve humanity, faith, family, memory, and hope against the economic theology of slavery.

Christian athletes cannot save the Church, but the Church must stop using their influence without forming their inner lives. Athletes need healing, theology, stewardship, and discipleship for wealth, power, race, performance, and marketplace ministry.