Annotations on a Letter that Changed the World from a Birmingham Jail

“I first read Dr. Kings Letter from Birmingham Jail as a freshman in high school. I have a vivid memory of being struck by his suggestion that perhaps the world is in dire need of creative extremists for love and the extension of justice, by those who would follow the biblical prophet Amos, Martin Luther, John Bunyan, Abraham Lincoln, and most importantly, the Lord Jesus Christ. The articulate vision and call to action contained in Dr. Kings Letter from Birmingham Jailfor justice and love, for non-violent social activism, and for the involvement of all in seeing racial harmony and justice come in increasing measure in our worldremain a timely, challenging and important message for the 21st century. Many have read the letter. I earnestly pray this reprinting, along with the helpful outline and index of significant quotations, will play a part to draw us again to the vision expressed by Dr. King, reflecting the vision of God himself for shalom in the world.”– Michael Kelly, former lecturer at WTS

“This document should be read and reread by every pastor and Christian without exception, especially those who say that social and political issues are not their talking points.”- Bruce Weber, STD, PhD, Adjunct Instructor, Brandman/Chapman University

“Dr. Lillbacks insightful citations and annotations add significance to the origin and meaning of the Letter. It is of value to see the slight changes made between the original and polished versions. Who would guess that this profound writing began on the margins of a newspaper? In the twenty-first century, who would know that Birmingham, aka Bombingham, was the most segregated city in America, or that there were 48 unsolved bombings between 1948 and 1957? Who would know that Bull Connors had perpetuated segregation for twenty-two years as the sheriff?

“Its many well-chosen phrases echo in the mind: freedom is never voluntarily given, the cup of endurance runs over, flowing with floods of blood, his metaphorical comparison of the church as either a thermometer or thermostat, and sister Pollards memorably incorrect grammar, My feets is tired, but my soul is rested. He was both an eyewitness and one who suffered the demeaning cruelty delivered to the Blacks. To the moderate white church his message was wake-up. His Letter is Christianity in action.

“Letter from Birmingham Jail is inspiring and one of a kind. There is little doubt that Martin Luther King Jr. was a spiritual giant. His Letter not only deals with theology, it encompasses ethics, law, history, society, and literary artistry. It is always a part of my philosophy of religion classes.

“In making Annotations on a Letter That Changed the World from a Birmingham Jail available with his incisive editorial comments, Dr. Peter Lillback has rendered a great service to those around the world who seek reconciliation of people of all races. His intelligent approach provides added learning to issues of race long dividing humankind. This is a must read for Heads of State world wide, University and College leaders, State and Local governments, students and all those who have a yearning for peace and reconciliation. We are indebted to Dr. Lillback for an unselfish act of service.”- Rev. Dr. W. Wilson Goode Sr., Mayor of Philadelphia, 1984-1992

“Dr. Peter Lillback, preeminent scholar, theologian, and historian, reminds us that Dr. King was not simply a great, gifted thinker. He was also an exceptional theologian and historian. Annotations on a Letter That Changed the World from a Birmingham Jail is an amazing exhibition of this fact.”- Rev. Dr. Herbert H. Lusk, II, Pastor, Greater Exodus Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA, Founder and CEO, People For People, Inc., Former Philadelphia Eagles Running Back

“Americans have benefited from the faith and fortitude of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., but often at a comfortable distance from the moral conscience and courage that were required to secure these benefits. From a dim and dusty jail cell, Dr. King challenged the leaders of the faith community as the custodians of Biblical Truth. His powerful thesis declared that when such leaders are void of the will to confront injustice with direct action, they have abandoned their Christian responsibility.