This biography by Eric Metaxas explores the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and theologian who actively resisted the Nazi regime. The book delves into Bonhoeffer's decision to leave the safety of America to return to Germany, his involvement in the Valkyrie plot to assassinate Hitler, and his efforts in 'Operation 7' to smuggle Jews into neutral Switzerland. Metaxas uses previously unavailable documents, including personal letters and journal entries, to provide a comprehensive and vivid account of Bonhoeffer's life, emphasizing his commitment to his faith and his radical stance against evil[2][3][4].
In 'The Cost of Discipleship,' Dietrich Bonhoeffer challenges readers to question their understanding of true discipleship. He distinguishes between 'cheap grace,' which is forgiveness without repentance or commitment, and 'costly grace,' which demands obedience, sacrifice, and a genuine transformation of the believer's life. The book delves into the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the Beatitudes and the righteousness that Christ demands from his followers. Bonhoeffer also highlights the importance of community, forgiveness, and love in the context of Christian discipleship. He argues that true discipleship involves following Christ even in the face of opposition and persecution, and that it requires a radical inward transformation and a commitment to deny self and follow Jesus[1][3][5].
This book is a compilation of letters and papers written by Dietrich Bonhoeffer while he was imprisoned by the Nazis from 1943 to 1945. The letters, largely preserved and compiled by his friend Eberhard Bethge, provide a profound insight into Bonhoeffer's theological reflections, his daily concerns, and his personal struggles during his imprisonment. The book includes letters to his family, friends, and fellow prisoners, as well as theological writings that introduced concepts such as 'religionless Christianity.' These writings have had a significant impact on Christian theology and continue to be relevant today for their themes of hope, courage, and faith in the face of suffering and uncertainty[2][3][5].
In this episode, Tripp & Jeff sit down with esteemed scholar Stephen Haynes, author of The Battle for Bonhoeffer, to explore the complex legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. They discuss Bonhoeffer's early influences, his pivotal works, and his controversial political stances. Haynes also sheds light on common misconceptions about Bonhoeffer, especially in the American evangelical context, and critiques the portrayal of Bonhoeffer by figures like Eric Metaxas. The conversation spans Bonhoeffer's theological journey, his resistance to Nazi ideology, and the implications of his teachings for contemporary Christian thought. This discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the multifaceted life and impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Stephen Haynes is the Albert Bruce Curry Professor of Religious Studies at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee and Theologian-in-Residence at Idlewild Presbyterian Church. He is a Dietrich Bonhoeffer scholar and author or editor of over 14 books including The Bonhoeffer Phenomenon, The Bonhoeffer Legacy, and The Battle for Bonhoeffer: Debating Discipleship in the Age of Trump. In this book, Haynes examines “populist” readings of Bonhoeffer, including court evangelical Eric Metaxas’s book Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy.
A Five-Week Online Lenten Class w/ John Dominic Crossan
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The Rise of Bonhoeffer 
