Bonhoeffer's theological brilliance,
committed discipleship, ecumenical insight
and courageous participation in the struggle
against Nazism have profoundly shaped
contemporary Christian understanding and
action. Although his early death at the
hands of the Gestapo prevented him from
providing us with a full and systematic
theology, his writings are remarkably
extensive and have become increasingly
influential. This volume concentrates on
the key texts and ideas in Bonhoeffer's
thought. It presents the essential
Bonhoeffer for students and the general
reader. John de Gruchy's introductory essay
and notes on the selected texts set
Bonhoeffer in his historical context, chart
the development of his thought and indicate
the significance of his theology in the
development of Christian theology as a
whole. Substantial selections from
Bonhoeffer's work illustrate key themes:
- His theological foundations
- Christology and reality
- Confessing Christ concretely
- The life of free responsibility
- Christ in a world come of age