Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Faith in Community

Book Description

After his martyrdom at the hands of the Gestapo in 1945, Dietrich Bonhoeffer continued his witness in the hearts of Christians around the world. His Letters and Papers from Prison became a prized testimony to Christian faith and courage, read by thousands. Now in Life Together we have Pastor Bonhoeffer's experience of Christian community. This story of a unique fellowship in an underground seminary during the Nazi years reads like one of Paul's letters. It gives practical advice on how life together in Christ can be sustained in families and groups. The role of personal prayer, worship in common, everyday work, and Christian service is treated in simple, almost biblical, words. Life Together is bread for all who are hungry for the real life of Christian fellowship.

Customer Reviews:

Another classic by Bonhoeffer!.......2007-10-09

I encourage anyone who snags a copy of this book to read the introduction of this book because it summarizes who Bonhoeffer was and what he went through - which is very incredible. Just reading the introduction made me curious and open to what was contained in the pages to follow.

In this book Bonhoeffer is addressing life in the Body of Christ, the community of believers. Specifically, in the local body. For what he writes as to the purpose of community and how it should be played out in the lives of believers, every pastor and leader in a church should read this book, because it is a beautiful vision of what it is to live life together.

The third chapter, titled 'The Day Alone' was worth the price of admission to me, on its own. In it he talks about one's personal walk with God, the time alone with God and in his Word and in prayer. It is really challenging, but at the same time encouraging .

If I could, I'd have every Christian read this book and engage the material within. Bonhoeffer came from a situation foreign to most readers today, but most of what he writes is relevant to the modern setting. There were a few things he suggested (well, dictated, as is his style...) which raised my eyebrows. Not necessarily that what he said was biblically wrong, I just didn't quite completely agree with the practical practice he was outlining for a specific point. But that doesn't mean he wasn't making a relevant commentation - and his points are all excellent for believers to engage and think about, for their minds to stew over and then take back to the Word.

So yes, I recommend this greatly. If you're a Christian, read it. If you're not a Christian, this has glimpses of what it means to love Christ and live with his followers and I'd encourage you to consider what is written on these pages. Though if you're curious about what Christianity is, I'd suggest something more along the lines of Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis.

A legitimate classic..........2007-05-29

I have been wanting to read this book for several years, having become increasingly fascinated with the life and thoughts of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. His story is truly remarkable, and this seemed like a good place to start reading his work. I probably had unrealistic expectations, given the language and culture gap between us. Nonetheless, it is a substantial and worthwhile book to read.

The strength of this book is its depth. While only 100+ pages long, it is meaty. Bonhoeffer is full of big ideas with profound implications. He tackles big issues in Christian community, spending inordinate amounts of time discussing topics like confession with great sincerity and significance.

My primary critique of "Life Together" (and this may be partially attributed to translation issues) is that Bonhoeffer seems to be unnecessarily dogmatic on some rather peripheral issues. For instance, he suggests that unison singing is an essential part of Christian worship, somehow equating vocal harmony with disunity. This idea seems like a stretch, at best. More broadly, the chapters "The Day with Others" and "The Day Alone" seem to be almost like Bonhoeffer's Rule, a contemporary and Protestant version of the earlier rules of monastic life. Though filled with great ideas and describing a life that would surely please God, he sets up his schedule as a spiritual necessity, rather than one option among many.

Overall, this book is definitely worth reading. When he gets bogged down in describing the minutiae of life in Christian community, it gets a bit laborious. But when Bonhoeffer focuses on the main ideas of ministry, confession, and communion in the final half of the book, the endurance of this book as a classic becomes evident. I would recommend it to both seasoned and new believers as a way to further develop of understanding of how we should rightly do "life together."

Insightful book into life in the Christian Church.......2007-02-17

I found this book very enlightening. Those small in size, it is not an easy read. Very thought provoking, I found myself studying and pondering it instead of just read through it. Information on the duties of pastors and how much responsiblity is carried out by the pastor was informative. I felt a compelling to empliment some of these teachings into my own personal life. Daily devotions, not new to me, were suggested for the whole family -- which used to be common practice in many Christian homes, was discussed. Confessing ones sins to other Christians vs. a therapists was discussed. Overall I would recommend this book to ones Christian library.

Sanctorum Communio - the "Communion of Saints".......2007-02-07

Life Together

INTRODUCTION:
This has been my "introductory" book to the wonderful writings of this saint, this mystic Dietrich Bonhoeffer. It made a radical change in my spiritual life, specifically it lit up my soul's hidden and unknown yearning for the fellowship of believers on Sunday, the communion of saints, the beautiful and divine liturgy (aka worship service) - something that my beloved Baptist parents criticized, since it was a book other than the Holy Writ that created in me this yearning. For too many years I dabbled in man's philosophies, being next to "the Way," ... at one point believing in Christian spirituality, but not in "organized religion." Brother Dietrich, this saint clarified for me, elucidated, explained and imprinted on my heart the importance of "Sanctorum Communio" - the fellowship of beliviers, the communion of saints. ("Sanctorum Communio: A Theological Study of the Sociology of the Church (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works)" is the title of his PhD dissertation which he finished at 21; see book by Augsburg Fortress Publishers, 1998).

I recently purchased this book for a coworker (Christian brother, who goes to church once in a while) and wrote him "May you always see the church as the Sanctorum Communion, the communion of saints, the ekklesia of God, where we draw strength from one another's company as we worship the Holy Trinity."

EDITION:
This translation is not the most faithful the original language (German). "Life Together and Prayerbook of the Bible (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works, vol. 5)" offers a better English translation, plus the added bonus of the editors notes with regards to the history and language terms used by Bonhoeffer - not to mention one of his other writings (on the Psalms).

AUTHOR:
The 6th of 8 children intellectual German turn-of-the-20th-century family, Lutheran theologian, a pastor, a renewed child of God, a pacifist, a collaborator, A martyr for Christ at the hands of the Nazis. Today he is remembered, as an inspiration for Christians and non-Christians - a testament to the power of the Gospel lived out in every stage and trial of life. Up there with C.S. Lewis, he seems to be one of the most widely read and known modern Christian writer. For me, he is my favorite theologian (a pragmatist at heart). One whose love to pastor the local parish and lead youth groups did hinder him from contemplatively writing about his struggles and God's "costly Grace" (to use one of his expressions).

CONTENT:
I think THE KEY to understanding and getting more out of this book (and some of the advice that Bonhoeffer offers - section about music), is to know that Bonhoeffer WROTE THIS BOOK IN 1 DAY, in Berlin at his parents house after the Finkenwalde seminary of the Confessing Church had been discovere by the Gestapo and as a consequence of the experienced gained being a professor, teacher, and fellow believer in that isolated community.

Chapters:
1) Community
2) The Day with Others
3) The Day Alone
4) The Ministry
5) Confession and Communion

Chapter 5) is the chapter that I learned the most from since in my Baptist upbringing experience in the church, there was not theological concept of Confession - in contrary to the NT evidence, and Communion was nothing seen as deep as Bonhoeffer explains).

CONCLUSION:
* Do you have a yearning to spend time in the house of God (Psalm 118:24), to be a living stone in the holy temple of God (1 Peter 2:4), to be a "sinner and saint" (using Martin Luther's terminology) as Christ feeds you and you edify your fellow brothers and sisters in "Word and Sacrament" (Lutheran theological phrase) ?
* Do you find church boring, devoid of spirit ?
* Do you seek more from your local church ?

As an answer, I can only say this "Do not ask what the Church can do for you, but ask, plead, contemplate, on what you thru Christ can do for His local church!"

I highly recommend this book for anyone who faces lethargy, disinterest, non-commitment to be actively involved in a local church and thus participate in the Church of God.

True Christian Community.......2007-01-25

Bonhoeffer's "Life Together" is a classic expression of life in the community of believers!

I found my second read of this book to be more helpful in understanding the kind of life that should be celebrated within the sanctorum communio. I believe Bonhoeffer's book holds more meaning and influence in the context of a first-century styled "house church" than any other religious setting. (I use "house church" to separate our thought from the traditonally accepted "institutional church" and the religious systems of man.)

I remember reading this book several years ago when all I knew of church life was from within the institutional confines of religious rigorism. I believe Bonhoeffer's words have more depth and meaning when they are applied and understood within more of a small familial setting. Frankly, I have come to believe it is the only way this kind of community can be achieved. In Bonhoeffer's words, "In the spiritual realm the Spirit governs; in human community, psychological techniques and methods."

I benefited greatly from Bonhoeffer's plea for believers to be thankful for the Christian fellowship in which we have been placed. When we focus on what our community isn't... we hinder God from letting our fellowship grow as it ought. We are bound to one another. We have no choice but to get along and learn to manifest Christ in our midst! Bonhoeffer makes plain that our actions, good or evil, in sight or in secret... effects the body life. This is not theory... it is reality.

The only way this kind of fellowship works is by embracing Christ's love instead of human love. "Human love has little regard for truth... human love cannot love an enemy." I believe this exposes the kind of love that many in the church have settled for. Bonhoeffer's own actions prove we are all capable of settling for human love and justifying our actions to get our way.

Overall, the reader will find Bonhoeffer's book (as his many others) to be Christocentric. The whole purpose of life in the community is to see our Lord manifested and glorified in our presence. In "Life Together," Bonhoeffer successfully pulls away the empty ritual and the religious ceremony to reveal a simple and clear understanding of life in the Body of Christ!

*My only points of disagreement with Bonhoeffer are at those places where his committment to reformed theology come to the surface. I know this about Bonhoeffer and simply move past it to hear his wonderful words of wisdom and insight.

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Insightful and moving letters that transcend human created myth.
An Example of Faith
Journal of a Christian
Classic Story of Resistance
A Tragic Historical Record

Letter and Papers from Prison
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Manufacturer: Touchstone
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0684838273

Amazon.com

Letters and Papers from Prison is a collection of notes and correspondence covering the period from Dietrich Bonhoeffer's arrest in 1943 to his execution by the Gestapo in 1945. The book is probably most famous, and most important, for its idea of "religionless Christianity"--an idea Bonhoeffer did not live long enough fully to develop, but whose timeliness only increases as the lines between secular and ecclesial life blur. Bonhoeffer's first mention of "religionless Christianity" came in a letter in 1944:

What is bothering me incessantly is the question what Christianity really is, or indeed who Christ really is, for us today. The time when people could be told everything by means of words, whether theological or pious, is over, and so is the time of inwardness and conscience--and that means the time of religion in general. We are moving towards a completely religionless time; people as they are now simply cannot be religious any more. Even those who honestly describe themselves as "religious" do not in the least act up to it, and so they presumably mean something quite different by "religious."

The pleasures of Letters and Papers from Prison, however are not all so profound. Occasionally, Bonhoeffer's letters burst into song--sometimes with actual musical notations, other times with unforgettable phrases. Looking forward to seeing his best friend, Bonhoeffer writes, "To meet again is a God." --Michael Joseph Gross

Customer Reviews:

Insightful and moving letters that transcend human created myth........2007-05-10

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Letters & Papers from Prison was a most edifying read, primarily because it stripped away the mystery and mythical aura that surrounded him, before and after his murder by the Nazis in 1945. The fact that his reputation is so universally well known is greatly due in part to his brother-in-law, the late Eberhard Bethge.

Having been raised in a very German household myself, I would hear occasional stories from my own father, who grew up in Germany at that time, about the German pastor who was a part of the plot to kill Hitler, the one who was the moral conscience who aided the conspirators while they tried to rid Germany of the diabolical dictator and his vile atrocities that were sweeping throughout the land, for nothing was sacrosanct.

Bonhoeffer, known throughout the Christian world for his books, The Cost of Discipleship and Ethics, among other treaties, pamphlets and sermons, was a great example in respects to how a man or woman can truly live an independent Christian life while working in the world and that heroism does not necessarily come from preaching the Gospel, but rather, living it or trying to. It also comes from incorporating nuances of those truths, big or small, into the daily activities of ones life and sharing that Christian goodness (in a healthy and practical manner) with people from all walks of life, irrelevant of class structure, education, ethnic background, et cetera.

In this book, Bonhoeffer's theological musings move from the act of suffering to the meaning of love, whether human, religious or even material, and the insights that he shares with some of his correspondents, especially Eberhard Bethge, is sometimes profoundly compelling, and one can endlessly cite the abundant source material to back that up. But while he was accepting his cross of suffering, knowing in a way that it was a gift, he had an agony for those whom he was separated from, specificially his fiance, Maria von Wedemeyer-Weller.

The overall profile of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, as presented in this work, showcases an all too human man, sometimes short-tempered and impatient yet very religious, contemplative, moral, ethical and surprisingly creative. For an example of that, read his short fiction piece entitled: "Lance-Corporal Berg: A narrative" which is almost similarly reminiscent, style-wise, to that of the writer and author Erich Maria Remarque. His poems, however, were not that great, but it made him only more real.

Though I am Catholic and my interpretation of Scripture is slightly different, much of what Bonhoeffer wrote spoke volumes to me, especially in tackling the day-to-day challenges and experiences that life has to offer. I think he speaks to many people, and that is good, for what he has to say, by his life, writings, choices, down to his martyrdom can cross all ecumenical boundaries. And that is indeed a remarkable witness.

An Example of Faith.......2007-02-06

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's "Letters and Papers from Prison" is the account of an extremely intelligent German theologian and pastor who was thrown into prison during WWII. The correspondence Bonhoeffer shared with his family members during the time he spent in prision (over a year and a half)reveals his character in a remarkably honest way. The love and concern he has for his family and his selflessness, even while sitting in prison, are a great testament to the Christian faith regardless of your theological position.

Journal of a Christian.......2005-10-28

I bought the book looking to know more about Bonhoeffer's theology..and ended up learning more about my own. Though at times I didn't agree with his thoughts, I found myself agreeing with the man. These letters mix profound questions with small daily details of life. It is authentic and transparent in a way that typical straightforward "theology" books can't be. There is honest, articulate, and earnest faith in these unselfconscious and private thoughts.

Classic Story of Resistance.......2005-06-20

I read this book several years ago at the behest of my Pastor when I was still a man of faith. And although I've essentially fallen out of that faith in the last few years, I still consider this one of the most inspiring true stories I have ever read. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German minister who openly spoke out against the Nazis-and allegedly even participated in the plot to kill Hitler-was imprisoned in 1943 and eventually hanged by the German government shortly before the end of the war. This is a collection of his correspondence with his family and friends during his two years of incarceration.

The strength of this book is that Bonhoeffer was not only a truly courageous man who refused to abandon his principles, but as a Christian, he actually practiced what he preached. This seems to be rare these days and I think the reason that so many people resent Christians and Christianity is that they see so many of them as hypocrites. They constantly talk about God and peace, and righteousness, yet they are so quick to drop a bomb or condemn those that disagree with them. Bonhoeffer represents a pure Christianity of love and justice. This is my take at least and others might disagree with my assessment. With that said, this was a man who truly believed in his God and accepted with dignity whatever fate that God had in store for him. His courage and joy in the face of such a harsh fate is evident in his writings. So, even though I don't share Bonhoeffer's religious beliefs or some of his "ethics," I don't hesitate to recommend this truly inspiring book to believers and non-believers alike. My only warning is that there is a lot of theological discussion and those with little or no knowledge of the religion might find these parts a bit over their head.

A Tragic Historical Record.......2004-09-02

I bought this book not knowing what to expect. What I found was an odd mixture of thoughts of a man in a horrible position. The letters, poems, notes, and short stories run the gamut of emotions. In one letter Bonhoeffer is examining some theological principle and in another he is keeping up on family relations. If you read this book, you will get an idea of what it must have been like to be a Nazi prisoner and depend on others for your care. You will also learn how much Bonhoeffer cared for his fiancee and best friend. Three words of advice: 1) know a bit about Bonhoeffer's life before you pick up this book, 2) look into the new translation of this book that will be coming out soon from Ausburg Fortress Press and 3) be prepared for an emotional and moving look behind the closed doors of a Nazi prison.

The Young Bonhoeffer: 1918-1927 (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works)

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The Young Bonhoeffer: 1918-1927 (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works)
Dietrich Bonhoeffer , Clifford J. Green , Marshall D. Johnson , Hans Pfeifer , and Carl-Jurgen Kaltenborn
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Publishers
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Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0800683099

Book Description

The first of the chronological volumes in this acclaimed critical edition of Bonhoeffer's work gathers his one hundred earliest letters and journals from after the First World War through his graduation from Berlin University. It also contains his early theological writings up to his dissertation. These seventeen works include, for example, works on the patristic period for Adolf von Harnack, on Luther's moods for Karl Holl, on biblical interpretation for Professor Reinhold Seeberg, as well as essays on the church and eschatology, reason and revelation, Job, John, and even joy. Rounding out this picture of Bonhoeffer's nascent theology are his sermons from the period, along with his lectures on homiletics, catechesis, and practical theology.

In translation for the first time, these writings show Bonhoeffer as pastor and theologian alert to his times and developing the formative themes of his religious worldview.

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The Definitive Bonhoeffer Biography

Bonhoeffer: Man For His Times & Ours

Christian Fortitude

A Testament to Excellence

A classic -- Bethge is indispensable

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Biography
Eberhard Bethge
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Letter and Papers from Prison

Ethics Ethics

The Cost of Discipleship

A Testament to Freedom: Essential Writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The

Discipleship (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works, Vol. 4)

ASIN: 0800628446

Book Description

Eberhard Bethge's exhaustive biography of Bonhoeffer is recognized throughout the world as the definitive biography. Victoria Barnett has now reviewed the entire translation for this edition, correcting hundreds of mistakes and omissions, and adding in sections from the German, for example, on Bonhoeffer's childhood, that have never before appeared in English.

Customer Reviews:

The Definitive Bonhoeffer Biography.......2006-03-27

Bethge was Bonhoeffer's closest friend and colleague.He devoted his life to bringing Bonhoeffer to the world's attention. This expanded volume, in remarkable ways, weaves together Bonhoeffer's life and his theological insights. In this 100th anniversary of the birth of this 39 year old martyr, this long book deserves careful reading, even my those who have read Bethge's somewhat shorter version published a number of years ago.

Bonhoeffer: Man For His Times & Ours.......2005-07-08

Upon starting this book I knew very little about Bonhoeffer; I had read some of Ethics and I knew of his murder by the Gestapo. Thus, there was something new on every page for me, and despite the book's length it never seemed oppressive in detail. In fact if the author can be faulted for one thing it is his lack of information about Bonhoeffer's courtship and engagement; which is discussed almost as an aside. On every other point though, the author did a wonderful job. His explanations of Bonhoeffer's theology are clear and understandable. Considering that much of what Bonhoeffer took for granted, theologically speaking, is alien to the American intellectual tradition that is a great accomplishment. The book is also a welcome antidote to the conception of 1930's and 1940's Germany as synonymous with Hitler and National Socialism. For even under the totalitarian state there were still men like Bonhoeffer who stood up against the regime

Christian Fortitude.......2004-07-22

An outstanding, detailed and gripping story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Christian fortitude. Eberhard Bethge's exquisitely detailed knowledge and references about Bonhoeffer's life, from beginning to end is a wonderful tribute to Bonhoeffer. The reader asks the question what possessed Bonhoeffer to pursue the dream of a restive German society with Christianity abounding. Unless one has lived under a dictatorship perhaps this makes one restless. This book provides clear and concise answers.

A Testament to Excellence.......2000-05-03

About 20 years ago, I read an older translation of this biography. Then, as now, a reader cannot help but be impressed by the thorough and meticulous scholarship that went into its preparation. Because of its size and scope (900+ pages), it may be somewhat daunting to new readers who may be just now encountering Bonhoeffer. However, given the nature of his literary output (Bonheoffer was still a young man when he died, and many of his ideas exist only in limited or underdeveloped forms), this in-depth look at the man and his motivations by the individual who probably knew him best is essential to an informed understanding of his work. For Bonhoeffer admirers, it doesn't get any better than this.

A classic -- Bethge is indispensable.......2000-04-18

Eberhard Bethge was Dietrich Bonhoeffer's closest friend and the lifelong editor and interpreter of his life and writings. For the first time we now have the completely unabridged biography in a revised and updated English translation. This is not only a classic of twentieth century biography; it also addresses key issues not only of German and European history, World War II, and the Holocaust but also, through Bonhoeffer's theology, the church and modernity. It sharply poses the question of authentic Christian life. A big book and a challenging read!

Conspiracy And Imprisonment, 1940-1945 (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works)

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Conspiracy And Imprisonment, 1940-1945 (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works)

Manufacturer: Fortress Press
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ASIN: 0800683161

Book Description

This volume, published in the year of the one hundredth anniversary of Bonhoeffer's birth, documents Bonhoeffer's life under the increasing restraints and fateful events of World War II Germany.

In hundreds of letters, including ten never-before-published letters to his fiancée, Maria von Wedemeyer, as well as official documents, short original pieces, and a few final sermons, the volume sheds light on Bonhoeffer's active resistance to and increasing involvement in the conspiracy against the Hitler regime, his arrest, and his long imprisonment. Finally, Bonhoeffer's many exchanges with his family, fiancée, and closest friends, demonstrate the affection and solidarity that accompanied Bonhoeffer to his prison cell, concentration camp, and eventual death.

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More Information About an Old Friend

An Excellent Look into Devotion

Love Letters from Cell 92: The Correspondence Between Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Maria Von Wedemeyer, 1943-45
Ruth-Alice Von Bismarck , and Ulrich Itz
Manufacturer: Abingdon Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Letter and Papers from Prison

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Life in Pictures

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Spoke in the Wheel

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Biography

Bonhoeffer

ASIN: 0687010985

Customer Reviews:

More Information About an Old Friend.......2002-02-25

Maria Weller, as I knew her in Boston in the early 1970's, was a marvellous person who worked with me at Honeywell Information Systems. My wife and I became good friends of Maria's and saw her frequently both before and during her illness. We knew her two sons and her daughter.

Ruth-Alice Von Bismark, Maria's sister, came to visit us after Maria's death to find our more about Maria's life in Boston and about her Boston friends.

I found the book fascinating, both for the letters and for Ruth-Alice historical notes that helped me to better understand Maria and Dietrich Bonhoffer.

An Excellent Look into Devotion.......2002-01-29

I had a difficult time reading this book. It is quite time-consuming (because of it's unusual format) and emotionally difficult due to its content. However, I'm glad I've read this book. It gave me a wonderful insight into a couple's very devoted relationship even though they were separated very soon into their relationship. The way their story plays out is heart-wrenching and difficult to read. But because this was an actual relationship, it's very worth-while.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Reality And Resistance

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Bonhoeffer: Reality and Resistance

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Reality And Resistance
Larry L. Rasmussen
Manufacturer: Westminster John Knox Press
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Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0664230113

Book Description

What led Dietrich Bonhoeffer to his momentous decision to be involved in the plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler on July 20, 1944? What is the relation between his resistance activities and his theological and ethical reflections? Exploring these intriguing and complex relationships in Bonhoeffer's life and thought during the turbulent 1930s and 1940s, Larry Rasmussen characterizes Bonhoeffer's resistance as an enactment of his Christology lived out with utter seriousness. Originally published in 1972 and now updated with a new introduction by the author, Rasmussen's Dietrich Bonhoeffer remains the defining study of Bonhoeffer's views of Jesus Christ, his ethics, and his resistance against Hitler and the Nazi regime.

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Bonhoeffer: Reality and Resistance.......2007-05-31

The author sets out to show that the changes in Bonhoeffer's Pacifism was not a turn around in his ethical or theological thinking, but an expansion of both ethical and theological interpretation that was at the heart of Bonhoeffer's earlier work. His search through the writings of Bonhoeffer plus interviews and writings of contemporary leaders and friends shows us in some detail how changing contemporary Social Patterns and Leadership had much to do with his re-thinking and actions and how those actions fitted in with his ethics and theology as written works. While some difference of opinion on these "adjustments" or "Changes" can be held, the author has written a very thorough analysis of Bonhoeffer through both his written works, both early and late. He also does a good job of showing how his actions follow his ethics and theology. This is a good academic study that is readable.

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A "brief" life indeed...

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Brief Life
Renate Bethge
Manufacturer: Augsburg Fortress Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0800636775

Book Description

His life became a symbol of Christian resistance to Hitler. His thought ushered in a new era of worldly Christianity. His personal struggle for authentic moral and religious stance became a beacon for a distracted world. Accompanied by family photos, the dramatic life, evolving thought, and perilous times of Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906—1945) are sketched in this short volume, which also features short excerpts from his writing.

This slim volume captures in a compelling and personal way the religious and political odyssey of one of the last century's great religious beacons.

Customer Reviews:

A "brief" life indeed..........2005-12-22

Although the book is clearly written and set up in a very reader friendly way, it is too brief. Since Renate Bethge is/was Bonhoeffer's niece the book is very trustworthy and gives good insight. However, the book's 86 pages of text could no doubt be shortened to 25 pages merely by lessening the margin space. The format of the book would fit poetry better than a biography. A slow reader, like the the writer of this review, can read the book in 1hr 20 min. The reason I bought this book was because I didn't know much about Bonhoeffer and thought this book, being under 100 pages might be more fitting than an 800 page book. I was disapointed to find there was little in this book which I did not know already.
What information this book gives, one can find on the internet for free.

If I had a 12 year old son that I wanted to give a constructive reading, this book would be perfect. For an adult that is seeking something more substantial, this is not the pick.

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Understanding Bonhoeffer
of book clubs and discussions
A True Hero

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Called by God
Elizabeth Raum
Manufacturer: Continuum International Publishing Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0826415547

Book Description

Nazi Germany produced an unusual group of Christian martyrs--among them, the nun philosopher Edith Stein, the mystical philosopher Simone Weil, and the peasant conscientious objector Hans Jägerstatter--but perhaps none so complex as the Lutheran theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Born into a large upper-middle-class, professional family that was not particularly devout or observant (his father was one of the leading psychiatrists in Germany), Dietrich early in life decided he wanted to be a Christian theologian. Yet his family background and connections insured that he wouldn't be one in the narrow mold of so many of his colleagues. Opportunities for travel-to Spain, North Africa. Mexico, Cuba, America (twice), and England (often)-gave him a broad horizon of possibilities. The greatest thing about America for him was his experiences in Harlem and his friendships with African Americans. His great regret was that he missed an opportunity to travel to India to meet Gandhi. He was one of the few German churchmen who spoke forthrightly against the persecution of Jews as Jews and not merely of Christians of Jewish descent. (How much of this was due to his beloved, 90-year-old grandmother Sophie, who defied the Nazi ban on shopping in Jewish stores? "I buy the things I need where I like.") His family connections drew him into a dangerous double game. His "employment" as a member of the Counterintelligence Office of the High Command of the Armed Forces enabled him to continue work as a pastor and seminary director. It allowed him to travel abroad, where he worked for a negotiated peace. And it eventually drew him into the plot to kill Hitler-an ethical stand which many German Christians of his generation couldn't understand or forgive. He was executed on 9 April 1945, three weeks before Hitler committed suicide. He was thirty-nine years old.

The life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer has been told at great length and in magnificent detail by his younger colleague, Eberhard Bethge. It's a biography that will never be surpassed but which only the most devoted will have the perseverance to read. Elizabeth Raum has retold the story concisely and readably for a whole new generation of readers.

Customer Reviews:

Understanding Bonhoeffer.......2006-03-21

A refreshing and informative 170 + pages survey of Bonhoeffer's life. This should be the first book on Bonhoeffer one reads to get the full sweep of the major points in his life, family, theology and death.

of book clubs and discussions.......2005-11-17

The reading is easy, but the lessons of faith in the face of evil will never leave you. Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a man who became so alarmed at Hitler's treatment of the Jews that he dared to oppose Hitler even in the face of death and participated in the failed plot to assassinate him. Bonhoeffer abandoned his protected role in the Clergy working tirelessly for those targeted by Hitler.

Ms. Raum's journalistic style creates a powerful story, the events of which are starkly presented. Juxtaposed against the rise of Hitler is the life of a man of wealth and privilege who, seeing the looming threat, embarks on a fatal journey. It is a story of a man of God, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, standing up for the people of God and never giving up or turning his back on God's call even unto his own death on the gallows in a concentration camp.

This is a wonderful book for any Book Club. Ms. Raum offers questions on her website as a jumping off point. The book and the questions provoked over 2 hours of lively discussion and insight into how God uses people and those who take the challenge.

A True Hero.......2003-11-03

Anyone, who's never heard of Bonhoeffer, can read this book and receive a wonderful introduction to a true hero. It's clear and simple enough to give to a young teenager, but also factual enough and inviting enough for any age.

Ms. Raum has taken a complex subject and hero and made them both available to anyone who wants to explore how Christians responded during World War II in Germany.

Average customer rating:

Short bio on Bonhoeffer

Easy to understand, thorough biograph

Great subject, but not well written

The Masquerade of Evil

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Spoke in the Wheel
Renate Wind
Manufacturer: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Customer Reviews:

Short bio on Bonhoeffer.......2007-03-04

This was the book I picked up in the bookstore of the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC after a tour of the museum and memorial. I wanted to learn more about the German theologian who was one of the most outspoken Protestant Germans to resist the Fuhrer's takeover of Germany and most of Europe.

As other reviewers have stated, this is a short, informative biography on Dietrich Bonhoeffer. If someone is looking, as I was, for an overview of the main events and themes of his life, this is a good place to start. It is hardly a definitive work, but measures up to being a good starting point.

The author's writing style is somewhat stilted in many places, making the flow jerky and confusing in points. However, the end flows more smoothly and overall, the book gives readers a enough of an overview to where they can go look for other sources that dig deeper.

Easy to understand, thorough biograph.......2007-01-12

This biography was easy to read, yet a thorough and complete picture of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life. It high lighted the most esential parts, and quotes, of his life and theology. I truly appreciated it and am sharing it with others.

Great subject, but not well written.......2005-04-16

I bought this book while in the middle of Bonhoeffer's "Letters and Papers from Prison". I was looking for a biography that could give me more background. This book was the only reasonably short biography I could find. Bonhoeffer's story is inspirational and he had had a lot of original ideas.

That said, this biography should have been a lot better. First, the the writing is consistently awkward - thanks to frequent literal translation of German phrases and sentences. Secondly, I got the sense that the author's commitment to Marxist/liberation theology was projected onto Bonhoeffer a bit. Some of that thought is certainly in Bonhoeffer's writings, but social gospel was one of many aspects of his theology. Worst of all, the author is just not a skilled biographer. Bonhoeffer grew up in a time of great change (end of the Kaiser-period, WWI, Weimar Republic, rise of Nazis) developed international acclaim as a theologian, was a pillar of the Confessing Church under the Nazis, conspired secretly against Hitler, and died a martyr. If anyone's life was tailor-made for an exciting biography, it was Bonhoeffer. Yet this book reads primarily like a timeline. It's a sorely missed opportunity.

So I gave the book 2 stars for it's brevity and subject matter, but that has to be balanced by shortcomings in the writing/translation.

The Masquerade of Evil.......2000-08-02

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Spoke In The Whell, is an excellent book and great biography. This book is a great gift if you want to introduce someone to this life of integrity. The book, translated into English from German, succesfully documents the important aspects of Bonhoeffer's short life: Early chilhood, theology studies, visitation of America, and return to Germany to resist Nazi rule. The book is an easy read and therefore, doesn't over burder the reader who may be introduced to this subject for the first time.

We discover the formatative development of the Confessing Church and the differences many of its members had on how to best oppose the Third Riech. We see Bonhoeffer as the voice of justice in this group as well as a voice of liberity throughout his life. I chose as my title "The Masquerade of Evil" from a chapter in the book because we also see how many citizens in German soceity fall to the evils of Nazism and support its cause. The reader is then moved to a sense of sadness, but vicarious courage, as we live the last years of Bonhoeffer's life in prison. Finally, we read about the death of Bonhoeffer and are moved that a life, so brave, ended so young.

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