Born July 12, 1927 in Spindale, North Carolina, Dr. Roberts earned a Ph.D. in Philosophical Theology in 1957 and later received a Doctor of Letters Degree, both from the University of Edinburgh. Roberts also received degrees from Johnson C. Smith University (Bachelor of Arts), Shaw University Divinity School (Bachelor of Divinity), and Hartford Seminary (Master of Sacred Theology). He was a pioneer in the 1960s Black Theology movement, and wrote on political theology, reconciliation, and justice.

Dr. Roberts was an Emeritus Member of the International Bonhoeffer Society – English Language Section Board of Directors and author of Bonhoeffer and King: Speaking Truth to Power (Westminster John Knox Press, 2004). He also wrote The Prophethood of Black Believers: An African American Political Theology for Ministry; Black Theology in Dialogue; The Prophethood of Black Believers: An African American Political Theology for Ministry; Black Theology in Dialogue; Liberation and Reconciliation: A Black Theology; and A Black Political Theology.  

95 years old, Dr. Roberts passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by family.