The Rise of Bonhoeffer

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and prominent figure in the Confessing Church known for his resistance to Nazism, teams up with Stephen Haynes, a Bonhoeffer scholar. They discuss Bonhoeffer’s brave stand against Nazi influence on Christianity. Key topics include his role in forming the Confessing Church, grappling with anti-Semitism, and drafting the vital Barmen Declaration. The conversation also touches on Bonhoeffer's theological struggles and his transformative experience in New York, emphasizing peace and justice amidst a turbulent political landscape.

Victoria J. Barnett, a leading expert on the Holocaust and the German churches, examines the complex interplay of religion and politics in Nazi Germany. The discussion sheds light on the historical roots of antisemitism, emphasizing the church's troubling complicity. Barnett delves into Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s moral struggles and resistance against state oppression, highlighting his internal conflict and courage in the face of societal pressures. Listeners gain insight into Bonhoeffer’s theological reflections and the church's crucial role in advocating for justice.

Andrew Root, a leading theologian and author on Bonhoeffer, dives into the critical role of Dietrich Bonhoeffer amid the rise of Nazism in Germany. He discusses Bonhoeffer's transformative relationship with Karl Barth and how their ideas shaped a resilient theological response to totalitarianism. The conversation highlights Bonhoeffer's journey from nationalism to ecumenism and his resistance efforts, emphasizing the profound struggles within the Church during a time of chaos, pushing for faith that stands against the intertwining of ideology and spirituality.

In this discussion, Reggie L. Williams, Stephen Haynes, and Gary Dorrien explore Dietrich Bonhoeffer's transformative year in New York City. Williams highlights Bonhoeffer's engagement with the Harlem Renaissance, reshaping his views on race and solidarity. Haynes reflects on Bonhoeffer's peace ethic and friendship with Jean Lassere, while Dorrien emphasizes the impact of his time at Union Seminary. Together, they uncover how Bonhoeffer’s encounters dismantled his nationalist beliefs, leading him towards a more profound and inclusive Christian identity.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a courageous theologian, actively resisted the Nazi regime while exploring profound questions of faith and ethics. In this engaging discussion, Bonhoeffer’s early life reveals how personal losses and a commitment to church reform shaped his thoughts. The conversation highlights his warning against idolizing authoritarian leaders and his call for personal responsibility in turbulent times. Listeners are invited to reflect on Bonhoeffer's legacy, exploring his critical views on leadership and the intricate relationship between faith and social reality.

What is The Rise of Bonhoeffer?In this audio documentary series, we'll dive deep into the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian who dared to stand against the Nazi regime. From his early days as a passionate scholar to his evolution into a bold leader of the Confessing Church, we'll trace Bonhoeffer's path as he wrestled with the moral and ethical challenges of his time. You'll discover how his theological insights, such as the concept of costly grace, shaped his resistance to Hitler and inspired a generation of believers to act with courage and conviction.Throughout the series, our hosts, Dr. Jeffrey Pugh & Dr. Tripp Fuller, will be joined by a host of renowned academic scholars of Bonhoeffer. Our goal is to bring the complexity and hard-won nuance of the ivory tower in a compelling and engaging to the listener, so the powerful story of Bonhoeffer can be engaged anew.Who Is Dietrich Bonhoeffer?Dietrich Bonhoeffer remains one of the 20th century's greatest theologians and witnesses to radical faith. He was a German pastor, theologian, anti-Nazi dissident, and key founding member of the Confessing Church. His writings on Christianity's role in the secular world have become widely influential, and his book The Cost of Discipleship has been described as a modern classic.Apart from his theological writings, Bonhoeffer was known for his staunch resistance to Nazi dictatorship, including vocal opposition to Hitler's euthanasia program and genocidal persecution of the Jews. He was arrested in April 1943 by the Gestapo and imprisoned at Tegel prison and later Flossenbürg concentration camp. After being accused of being associated with the July 20th plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, he was quickly tried and then hanged on April 9, 1945 as the Nazi regime was collapsing, 21 days before Adolf Hitler committed suicide.To join the accompanying online class, where you get access to a series of extended conversations with Bonhoeffer scholars, selected readings, QnA sessions, and engage an online community of fellow learners, head over to www.RiseOfBonhoeffer.com The class is donation-based, including 0:) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices