The Black Church: Its Development and Present Impact

Abstract

The Black church, historically, is the most significant institution in the Black community.I. History and Development of the Black ChurchA. There were differences of opinion with respect to whether slaves should be Christianized.B. The Christian religion was accepted by the slaves because it offered hope and salvation.C. Although at first religious instruction was given the slaves, this was later discontinued, then renewed after the Revolutionary War.D. Three major denominations split over the question of slavery.E. Independent churches were established by free Negroes in the North.