Many of us know Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an activist and leader in the Civil Rights Movement, but less often do we encounter him as a theologian whose work for justice was deeply rooted in his Christian faith. Before he was a national leader, King was a Baptist minister with a PhD in systematic theology, and his understanding of Scripture and the Christian faith formed the foundation of his public witness. In this class, we will explore the theology at the heart of King’s faith through a close look at his sermons, examining his theological claims about human nature, evil, love, the cross, God, and the Church. As we read King’s sermons together, we will consider how his theology speaks to a culture that capitalizes on hatred and division, and how, despite those forces, we might find the Strength to Love. This class will meet on Wednesdays from 6:30 PM-8:00 PM in the Kids' Building beginning on September 9th. Class Facilitator: Kelly Bratkowski (BS, MDiv, and PhD candidate in Theology and Religion).