Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Theology, and Political Resistance - Paperback

by Victoria J. Barnett (Introduction by), Michael P. Dejonge (Contribution by), Jens Zimmermann (Contribution by)

In 1945, Dietrich Bonhoeffer--a theologian and pastor--was executed by the Nazis for his resistance to their unspeakable crimes against humanity. He was only 39 years old when he died, but Bonhoeffer left behind volumes of work exploring theological and ethical themes that have now inspired multiple generations of scholars, students, pastors, and activists. This book highlights the ways Dietrich Bonhoeffer's work informs political theology and examines Bonhoeffer's contributions in three ways: historical-critical interpretation, critical-constructive engagement, and constructive-practical application. With contributions from a broad array of scholars from around the world, chapters range from historical analysis of Bonhoeffer's early political resistance language to accounts of Bonhoeffer-inspired, front-line resistance to white supremacists in Charlottesville, VA. This volume speaks to the ongoing relevance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's work and life in and out of the academy.

Author Biography

Lori Brandt Hale is professor and chair of religion at Augsburg University and co-author of Bonhoeffer for Armchair Theologians.

W. David Hall is W. George Matton professor of religion and philosophy at Centre College and author of Paul Ricoeur and the Poetic Imperative: The Creative Tension Between Love and Justice.