White theologians
Cone shows the irony of white theologians, who believe that their interpretation of the bible is the only correct one. However, at the end of the day, it is a subjective interpretation, just like Cone's arguments about black theology.
"Nice white people."
Cone tells us that despite expressing overt racism, the white people in his hometown ironically thought of themselves as "nice white people." This is because they compared their behavior to more extreme acts of racism.
Irony of white Christianity
Cone also exposes the irony of white racist people who identified as Christians:
"They honestly believed that they were Christian people, faithful servants of God... their affirmation of faith in Jesus Christ was a source of puzzlement to me, because they excluded blacks not only socially but also from their church services."
Here, Cone comments on the irony of adopting the Christian faith without living by any of its core principles such as kindness and acceptance.
Separate but Equal
In the text, Cone alludes to the policy of "separate but equal," which was used to legally justify racial segregation in schools and public places. However, this policy is ironic as separate is inherently unequal.
Amazing Grace
Cone analyses the irony of the song "Amazing Grace," stating that: "Ironically this song was written by an ex-slave trader; but when the sons and daughters of black slaves sang it, "Amazing Grace" was infused with black power."
