German theologian and dissident anti-Nazi
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Friends, this week we're diving into something that's been eating at me for a while now—how the architects of Christian nationalism have had the audacity to claim Dietrich Bonhoeffer as one of their own. I'm talking about Project 2025 invoking "costly grace" as if Bonhoeffer wasn't writing about them. Here's the thing: when Bonhoeffer penned those famous words in 1937, he wasn't crafting a devotional for suburban book clubs—he was running an illegal seminary under Nazi surveillance, training pastors who were forfeiting their careers, their pensions, and their safety to follow Jesus instead of the Führer. The German Christians of his day fused faith with national identity, blessed political power, and demanded loyalty to a strongman who promised to make their country great again. Sound familiar? The brutal irony is that those who now quote Bonhoeffer are functionally aligned with the very forces he resisted—they're the German Christians quoting the Confessing Church, and that's about as theologically obtuse as Caesar celebrating the cross while forgetting he's the one who put Jesus on it. Costly grace is still available, y'all—it just actually has to cost something. Read the full essay and subscribe for more at my SubStack, Process This You can subscribe to the Audio Essay podcast feed here. Join us at Theology Beer Camp, October 8-10, in Kansas City! UPCOMING ONLINE LENT CLASS: Jesus in Galilee w/ John Dominic Crossan What can we actually know about Jesus of Nazareth? And, what difference does it make? This Lenten class begins where all of Dr. John Dominic Crossan's has work begins: with history. What was actually happening in Galilee in the 20s CE? What did Herod Antipas' transformation of the "Sea of Galilee" into the commercial "Sea of Tiberias" mean for peasant fishing communities? Why did Jesus emerge from John's baptism movement proclaiming God's Rule through parables—and what made that medium so perfectly suited to that message? Only by understanding what Jesus' parables meant then can we wrestle with what they might demand of us now. The class is donation-based, including 0, so join, get info, and join up here. This podcast is a Homebrewed Christianity production. Follow the Homebrewed Christianity, Theology Nerd Throwdown, & The Rise of Bonhoeffer podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 75,000 other people by joining our Substack - Process This! Get instant access to over 50 classes at www.TheologyClass.com Follow the podcast, drop a review, send feedback/questions or become a member of the HBC Community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What does it mean to follow Jesus when the state is demanding your loyalty—and the church is tempted to comply? Watch the video of this episode on YouTube here. On the 120th anniversary of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's birth (February 4th), Russell sits down with Charles Marsh—author of Strange Glory: A Life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer—to ask why Bonhoeffer still captivates Christians and what his witness demands from us now. Together, they explore how Bonhoeffer recognized the moral collapse of the German church earlier than most, and why he insisted that confessing Christ's lordship must sometimes give way to concrete, costly action in history. The conversation widens to the pastoral dilemma Bonhoeffer never escaped: when is it enough to proclaim the gospel faithfully, and when must a preacher speak directly to the crisis at hand? Marsh reflects on the tension between shaping consciences slowly and naming injustice plainly, and how Bonhoeffer struck a balance. Marsh ultimately tells the story of his own father, a Mississippi pastor who preached “Amazing Grace for Every Race” at real personal cost, and of figures like Will D. Campbell and Fannie Lou Hamer, whose Christian witness fused tenderness with moral clarity. Their lives, Marsh suggests, reveal that faithfulness may not be loud, but it is never neutral. Resources mentioned in this episode: Strange Glory: A Life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer by Charles Marsh Brother to a Dragonfly by Will D. Campbell Fannie Lou Hamer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A conversation interacting with Jesus' parable of the talents and preparing us to interact with a compelling vision of Christian community from a 5 talent pastor. Purchase Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
In this episode of Heroes of the Holocaust, CJ Burroughs shares the true stories of three Righteous Gentiles who protected Jewish lives. The pastors we'll meet today were spiritual shepherds who refused to stay silent in the face of evil.You'll hear the story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German pastor whose faith led him to resist Hitler… and make the ultimate sacrifice.You'll also meet Vladimir Kuna, a pastor in Slovakia who opened his church orphanage to Jewish children whose parents had nowhere else to turn.And finally, we'll travel to France to remember André and Magda Trocmé, whose compassion inspired an entire town to shelter Jewish refugees and protect them from Nazi persecution.These stories remind us that faith is not shown by words alone—but by action, even when doing what's right comes at a cost.To learn more about God's people—from the days of the Bible through the present day—visit The Fellowship's Learn Center.
====================================================SUSCRIBETEhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNpffyr-7_zP1x1lS89ByaQ?sub_confirmation=1==================================================== DEVOCIÓN MATUTINA PARA MENORES 2026“HEROES Y VILLANOS”Narrado por: Tatania DanielaDesde: Juliaca, PerúUna cortesía de DR'Ministries y Canaan Seventh-Day Adventist Church22 DE ENEROLAS LUCHAS DEL HÉROE - SEGUNDA PARTE«El Señor ya te ha dicho, oh hombre, en qué consiste lo bueno y qué es lo que él espera de ti: que hagas justicia, que seas fiel y leal y que obedezcas humildemente a tu Dios» (Miqueas 6: 8).Hubo otros como Dohnanyi que vieron las cosas con los mismos ojos. Dietrich Bonhoeffer fue uno de ellos. Bonhoeffer fue un pastor y teólogo que desempeñó un papel clave en la resistencia contra el régimen nazi de Hitler. Además, Bonhoeffer era cuñado de Dohnanyi. La esposa de Dohnanyi era hermana de Bonhoeffer.Es notable el compromiso de Bonhoeffer con la justicia y con los derechos humanos durante un período tan oscuro de la historia. Bonhoeffer defendió activamente a los perseguidos y oprimidos, abogando por los judíos y oponiéndose a las políticas de discriminación racial y persecución. Bonhoeffer también estuvo involucrado en el complot para asesinar a Hitler, arriesgando su vida en nombre de sus convicciones. Finalmente fue arrestado y ejecutado por los nazis en 1945. Su valentía y su lucha por la justicia lo han convertido en un símbolo de resistencia y heroísmo en la lucha contra la opresión y la injusticia.La participación de Dietrich Bonhoeffer en el complot para asesinar a Adolfo Hitler plantea un dilema ético complejo y ha sido objeto de debate durante mucho tiempo. Como pastor y teólogo comprometido con los principios de no violencia y amor al prójimo, su participación en un plan para asesinar a otro ser humano parece contradictoria.Sin embargo, algunos lo defienden al argumentar que tomó esta decisión extrema en un momento de crisis moral, cuando enfrentaba un régimen que cometía atrocidades inimaginables y representaba una amenaza existencial para innumerables vidas. Otros sostienen que su participación en el complot fue un acto de resistencia desesperado y justificado frente a un mal mayor.Bonhoeffer dijo: «Cuando un loco atraviesa las calles en un coche, puedo, como pastor que se encuentra en el lugar, hacer algo más que consolar o enterrar a los atropellados. Debo saltar delante del coche y detenerlo».Es importante considerar el contexto histórico y las circunstancias extremas en las que este personaje tomó esta decisión, así como las complejidades éticas que rodean la resistencia a regímenes totalitarios. Lo que sí podemos apreciar en hombres como Bonhoeffer es que hacer justicia, ser fiel, leal y obedecer humildemente a Dios no tiene que ser solo un versículo de memoria, sino una realidad en nuestra experiencia de vida.
Why do so many white evangelicals still support Donald Trump—even after all the lies, cruelty, and corruption? It's not because they've been fooled. It's because they've chosen the lie. In this episode, we hear from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German pastor and theologian who resisted Hitler and wrote powerfully about the moral danger of what he called folly—a willful, self-protecting ignorance that chooses comfort over truth, and power over integrity. Other call it his Theory of Stupidity.
John reflects on Jesus' teaching from the Sermon on the Mount regarding giving in secret. His words weren't just spiritual advice. They were revolutionary. In a world built on reciprocity, status, and public recognition, Jesus offered a radically different way to live—one rooted in gratitude, freedom, and quiet goodness.Drawing on insights from ancient history, lived experience, and wisdom from voices like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this reflection shows how generosity can slowly retrain our hearts. When we practice giving without announcing it, something remarkable happens: we become less impressed with ourselves and less dependent on other people's approval.Over time, generosity becomes second nature. The left hand forgets what the right hand is doing. And goodness begins to feel free.
In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt are visited again by Mark Thiessen Nation, exploring the profound impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and writings on contemporary Christianity. In this episode, our hosts talk to Mark about the dangers of nationalism within the church. They discuss the importance of robust discipleship, the role of the church in society, and the need for a theopolitical perspective that prioritizes Christ’s teachings over national identity. Mark emphasizes the significance of community, holistic faith, and the challenges faced by Christians today in navigating cultural and political landscapes. Keywords Bonhoeffer, Christianity, nationalism, discipleship, Americanism, church, theology, peace, gospel Takeaways Mark Thiessen Nation emphasizes the importance of understanding Bonhoeffer’s life and work in the context of contemporary issues. Bonhoeffer’s writings provide a framework for understanding the dangers of nationalism in Christianity. Thin Christianity can lead to manipulation by political ideologies, highlighting the need for a robust faith. The church must engage with society while remaining rooted in Christ’s teachings. Discipleship involves a commitment to community and serious theological education. Mark’s academic journey reflects a deep engagement with Bonhoeffer’s thought and its relevance today. The parallels between Germanism and Americanism raise important questions about national identity and faith. Bonhoeffer’s response to the Nazi regime serves as a model for contemporary Christians facing moral dilemmas. A holistic Christian faith integrates worship, community, and social responsibility. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Thiessen Nation 02:42 Mark’s Personal Journey and Musical Influences 05:29 The Impact of Bonhoeffer on Mark’s Life 08:25 Exploring Bonhoeffer’s Theology and Pacifism 10:55 Mark’s Academic Journey with Bonhoeffer 13:50 The Rise of Nazism and Its Implications 16:49 Comparing Germanism and Americanism 19:18 Understanding Nazism and Its Context 22:19 The Dangers of Nationalism in Faith 25:22 Conclusion and Reflections on Faith and Politics 29:18 The Church as a Servant in Culture 34:36 Understanding Thin Christianity 40:55 Bonhoeffer’s Vision for Theological Education 49:00 Navigating Americanism and the Gospel 53:05 Polemical Parallels in Faith Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free. However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Seminary Professors Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture? “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements. The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! 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“When God's Son took on flesh, he truly and bodily took on, out of pure grace, our being, our nature, ourselves. This was the eternal counsel of the triune God. Now we are in him. Where he is, there we are too, in the incarnation, on the cross, and in his resurrection. We belong to him because we are in him. That is why the Scriptures call us the Body of Christ.”— Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger, December 30 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Helge Heynold liest: Von guten Mächten - von Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“Truth is not something we possess; it is Someone who possesses us.”~Dietrich Bonhoeffer “Christianity is not a set of ideas, but a Person who walks before us and calls us to follow.”~Timothy Keller “To follow Jesus is to discover that life itself has a direction.”~Dallas Willard “Truth is not found in a principle but in a person—Jesus Christ.”~N. T. Wright “The central pronouncement, ‘I am the Way,' is profoundly significant within the chapter as a whole, for it states in so many words what Bunyan knew, that ‘the way' is not what Thomas thought it was, a literal route or pathway, but a Person, Jesus himself. The destination, accordingly, is not a place (not even precisely ‘my Father's house'), but also a Person, the Father himself.”~J. Ramsey Michaels “The road to heaven runs through the cross.”~Billy Graham “Where is the highway to heaven? Where is the love we all need? Where is the peace we long for? Where is the man who is free?”~ John Denver, “Hold On Tightly” SERMON PASSAGEJohn 14:1-14 (ESV) 1 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” 8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father'? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. 12 “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”
“How are we supposed to be able to help those who are without joy and courage, if we ourselves are not borne by courage and joy? What is meant here is not something made or forced, but something given and free. With God there is joy, and from him it comes down and seizes spirit, soul, and body. And where this joy has seized a person, it reaches out around itself, it pulls others along, it bursts through closed doors. There is a kind of joy that knows nothing at all of the pain, distress, and anxiety of the heart. But it cannot last; it can only numb for a time. The joy of God has gone through the poverty of the manger and the distress of the cross; therefore it is invincible and irrefutable.”— Dietrich Bonhoeffer, God Is in the Manger, December 28 1 Corinthians 10:1-22
What if joy isn't something you chase—but something you receive? In this Advent message, Pastor Aaron McRae explores the deep, lasting joy that Jesus brings—a joy that is often unexpected, received by faith, and anchored in eternity.Drawing from Luke 2 and the Christmas story, this message reframes joy beyond temporary happiness, success, or comfort. Pastor Aaron contrasts the world's pursuit of happiness with the biblical invitation to joy—one that meets us in brokenness, suffering, uncertainty, and fear. From the unlikely joy announced to shepherds, to reflections from thinkers like C.S. Lewis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and modern neuroscience, this message shows how true joy is not circumstantial, but relational.This sermon speaks directly to those navigating stress, grief, anxiety, financial pressure, health challenges, or spiritual dryness. It reminds us that Jesus came not only to save what is lost, but to heal what is broken—and His joy is available here and now, regardless of circumstances.If you are searching for meaning beyond happiness, longing for hope this Christmas season, or wondering where to anchor your joy, this message will help you make room for the lasting joy found only in Jesus.Scriptures ReferencedLuke 2:1–14Psalm 16:11Psalm 51:12Galatians 5:22Philippians 4:4–6Psalm 119:14Romans 15:13Hebrews 12:2Resources & References MentionedArthur Brooks — Leadership and Happiness (Harvard Business School)Dietrich Bonhoeffer — Conspiracy and ImprisonmentC.S. Lewis — Mere ChristianityC.S. Lewis — Surprised by JoyFrieson, Wilder, — Living from the Heart Jesus Gave YouSerenity PrayerFor the full gathering of this message which includes worship, visit our Youtube channel. Stay Connected With Hillside Community Church.Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/c/HillsideCommunityChurchInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/hillsidechurches/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/hillsidechurchesWebsite | https://hillsidechurches.com
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ talks with Dr. Jens Zimmermann about Christian humanism and what it means to understand humanity through Christ.Their conversation explores the dualism that often divides faith and reason, how Neoplatonism shaped Christian thought, and why Bonhoeffer saw the incarnation as the key to recovering a truly human life. Zimmermann examines the limits of modern science and technology, the tension between individual freedom and the common good, and how education can better reflect the embodied, holistic nature of human existence. He also highlights the church's role in embodying the new humanity Christ represents and the value of engaging deeply with philosophy and theology.Whether you're interested in Bonhoeffer, theology, Christian humanism, or the intersection of faith and culture, this discussion offers a rich invitation to think more deeply about what helps—and hinders—human flourishing.Make sure to check out Dr. Zimmermann's book: Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Christian Humanism
In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, host PJ Wehry sits down with Rev. Andrea Ferrari—Reformed pastor, theologian, and author of The Fall and Redemption of Conscience: A Reformed Biblical Theology—to explore one of the most neglected yet foundational topics in Christian thought: the nature of the human conscience. From John Calvin's sensus divinitatis to Thomas Aquinas' intellectual approach to moral reasoning, Rev. Ferrari uncovers how Scripture, church history, and theological tradition shape our understanding of what it means to be human before God.Together, PJ and Rev. Ferrari discuss how conscience functions not merely as a moral calculator but as a spiritual sense, an innate awareness of the presence, judgment, and goodness of God. The conversation ranges from the spiritual senses tradition of the early church and medieval theologians like Bonaventure, to modern debates about whether conscience existed before the Fall, engaging voices like Herman Bavinck, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and John Webster. Along the way, they explore the implications of conscience for everyday moral experience, the universality of moral awareness in Romans 2, and the relationship between law, grace, and the human person in Reformed theology.If you're interested in biblical theology, Christian anthropology, Reformed doctrine, spiritual perception, Calvin vs. Aquinas, or the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and theology, this deep and accessible conversation sheds new light on the heart of what it means to perceive God and respond to Him. A rich and thoughtful dialogue for pastors, scholars, students, and anyone curious about how conscience shapes the Christian life.Make sure to check out Rev. Ferrari's book: The Fall and Redemption of Conscience: A Reformed Biblical Theology
Authoritarianism…For God's Glory? In this episode of the Centering: the Asian American Christian Podcast, hosts Yulee Lee and Daniel Lee are joined by guest Gabriel Jay Catanus (Director of the Filipino American Ministry Initiative and Affiliate Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Fuller Seminary; Lead Pastor of Garden City Covenant Church - Chicago), who shares insights on the pitfalls of authoritarianism within church leadership, drawing parallels from historical examples like Dietrich Bonhoeffer's criticism of Nazi Germany and discussing how immigrant church communities can inadvertently foster toxic leadership dynamics. The conversation also highlights the importance of plurality, cultural sensitivity, and self-reflection in cultivating healthy spiritual leadership. The episode concludes with practical advice for leaders to avoid believing their own hype and for communities to focus on collaborative and ethical leadership practices. 00:00 Introduction to Toxic Ministry 00:48 Understanding Authoritarianism in Ministry 03:11 Guest Introduction: Gabriel Jay Catanus 04:49 Authority and Power Dynamics in Churches 08:43 Cultural and Spiritual Influences on Leadership 12:35 Charismatic Authority and Its Challenges 21:02 Navigating Spiritual Power and Leadership 27:24 Muscular Christianity and Nazi Ideology 28:10 Identifying Authoritarian Leaders 29:26 Embracing Plurality in Leadership 31:20 Efficiency vs. Plurality in Ministry 32:18 Challenges for Asian American Leaders 35:59 God's Relationship with Authority 37:13 Personal Reflections on Leadership 46:42 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics Dr. Gabriel Jay Catanus https://www.gabrieljcatanus.com/ Fuller's Asian American Center aac.fuller.edu The Grand Inquisitor by Dostoevsky https://www.gutenberg.org/files/8578/8578-h/8578-h.htm The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-brothers-karamazov-a-new-translation-by-michael-r-katz-fyodor-dostoevsky/aefeb2fa8f45adb1 Bonhoeffer's 1933 radio address https://books.google.com/books?id=PF1cpVfZS60C&pg=PA268&lpg=PA268&dq#v=onepage&q&f=false If you appreciate the work we do at the Asian American Center at Fuller Seminary, please consider supporting us! Your monetary support sustains our vital work and expands Asian American research, leadership development, and pastoral formation for the Church in the year ahead. Donate here: fuller.edu/giveaac
Die Algorithmen in den Sozialen Medien machen uns dumm, sagt die Autorin Sineb El Masrar. Schon Dietrich Bonhoeffer beschrieb geistige Trägheit als Kern der Dummheit – und zeigte Wege, sie zu überwinden. Von Sineb El Masrar www.deutschlandfunkkultur.de, Politisches Feuilleton
This morning, as many of us will, I'll open the first door of my Advent calendar. I'm fascinated that this tradition has endured, even as much else about Advent has been overshadowed by all-things Christmas. We owe the origins of the Advent Calendar to 19th- and 20th-century German Lutherans, who also bequeathed us Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the most striking writers on the Advent season. Bonhoeffer, famous for his resistance to fascism, loved this season, but his vision of it was far from gentle festive ease. Bonhoeffer's sermon for the first week of Advent in 1931 addressed a culture at a turning point, a culture he described as ‘an age of worldviews.' He wrote that how a person dresses, eats, speaks, and even exercises was now being read as evidence of worldview, worldviews clashing with increasing violence. At the root of these disagreements about worldview was the struggle to define human value: who has value, who decides on the terms of human value? Bonhoeffer said he was afraid of a culture that answered that question by equating human value with mastery over ourselves, the world, and other people. He warned us against desiring leaders – political or religious - who promise such an impoverished vision of mastery and triumph. He was afraid of an impatient culture, tempted by easy answers that turn out to be very costly. Bonhoeffer finds in Advent a better story of what it means to be human, a story that teaches us expectant waiting. He preaches it as a season of restless desire and liberation from the substitute, counterfeit gods that get in the way of a more just future. He thinks those who are powerless and restless in spirit often grasp best what Advent is. Advent rewards those who yearn for a new world, but who will wait until it is one capable of being good news for all; one which will come as a child for whom there was no room. His model of those closest to the spirit of Advent is the prisoner, which he himself became, and the pregnant woman.The Church lights a candle on its Advent wreath for each of the four virtues of the season: hope, peace, joy, and love. In an age of worldviews in which rival visions of the future once again abound, these remain candles worth lighting in the darkness.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer escribió desde prisión: “Solo el agradecido puede vivir con alegría, aun en la oscuridad”. La gratitud no es una emoción pasajera; es una postura del alma. Sin embargo, agradecer exige humildad para reconocer que todo lo que somos y tenemos proviene de la gracia. De modo que hoy cierra el mes con un compromiso: vivir agradecido, no solo cuando todo va bien, sino también cuando la fe tiembla. Además, enseña a otros el practicar el “gracias” cotidiano con gestos, servicio y oración. Así pues, quien agradece no acumula, comparte, porque la gratitud continua convierte la vida en adoración perpetua. De modo que, cuando el agradecimiento se vuelve tu manera de vivir, el gozo deja de ser circunstancial y se vuelve una evidencia del Espíritu en ti. Que nuestra vida sea una oración constante que diga: “Gracias, Señor, por todo y en todo”. La Biblia dice en Salmos 103:2: “Bendice, alma mía, a Jehová, y no olvides ninguno de sus beneficios”. (RV1960).
Send us a textWhat if the kingdom of God becomes visible not in our theories but in our steps? Dietrich Bonhoeffer's theology reframes discipleship as embodied obedience—showing up in prisons, sharing real mutuality, and trading religious privilege for humble responsibility. In this episode, Bishop Wright has a conversation with The Rev. Dr. Jenny M. McBride, Associate Rector of All Saints' Atlanta and president of the International Bonhoeffer Society. Jenny shares how reading Bonhoeffer at an urban house of hospitality opened a door from evangelical ideas to lived formation. That path led her into prison classrooms where fashion small talk mingled with raw theological questions, and where “helping” gave way to being helped. They discuss Luke 10's sentness, why belief grows when we go where Jesus intends to go, and how visiting the incarcerated unmasks our craving for superiority. Responsibility becomes the antidote to Christian nationalism's power hunger, and repentance becomes a daily practice that forms courage and tenderness. Listen in for the full conversation.The Rev. Dr. Jennifer M. McBride (Ph.D. University of Virginia) is Associate Rector at All Saints' Episcopal Church in Atlanta. Previously she served as an Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Theology and Ethics at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago and held the Board of Regents Endowed Chair in Ethics at Wartburg College in Iowa. After a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Religious Practices and Practical Theology at Emory University, McBride directed a theology certificate program for incarcerated women through Emory's Candler School of Theology.McBride is author of You Shall Not Condemn: A Story of Faith and Advocacy on Death Row (Cascade, 2022), Radical Discipleship: A Liturgical Politics of the Gospel (Fortress, 2017), The Church for the World: A Theology of Public Witness (Oxford University Press, 2011), and is co-editor of Bonhoeffer and King: Their Legacies and Import for Christian Social Thought. In addition to book chapters and scholarly articles, her work has appeared in popular publications like The Christian Century and CNN.com and has been featured in the New York Times.McBride is the recent past president of the International Bonhoeffer Society – English Language Section, an organization made up of scholars, religious leaders, and readers of German pastor-theologian and Nazi-resister, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. She serves as co-editor of the T&T Clark book series, New Studies in Bonhoeffer's Theology and Ethics.She is married to Dr. Thomas Fabisiak, who is the co-executive director of the Georgia Coalition for Higher Ed in Prison and Associate Dean at Life University, where he runs a college degree program for women in Georgia prisons. Support the show Follow us on IG and FB at Bishop Rob Wright.
Pastors Josh McPherson and Kyle McMullen ask what it really means for a country to be a “Christian nation,” starting with the Pilgrims' original motives. From there, the hosts contrast a constructive Christian vision for nations, family, and masculine responsibility with destructive revolutionary impulses, engaging critically with Nick Fuentes' rhetoric, his views on women, Jews, history, and “America First.” They also respond to Tucker Carlson's comments about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and just war. Josh and Kyle warn about the spiritual and cultural dangers of conspiratorial thinking, irresponsible platforms, and “darkly anointed” influencers. Want to help spread the mission of Stronger Man Nation? Text STRONGERMAN to 53-555 and consider giving a gift of any amount. Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
Where Dave, Whitney, and Colton unpack the complexities of forgiveness from Sunday's service at Woodlands Church. Inspired by the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18), they discuss the weight of our sin, the cost of true forgiveness, and how to extend grace even when wounded repeatedly. Join them as they explore the difference between forgiveness, amends, and reconciliation, and how community and prayer can guide us on this journey. Is social media interfering with your daily life? The team shares their experiences with taking breaks from apps and being more present with family. What's your go-to comfort movie? Let us know! Books mentioned: * The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Laurie Cardoza-Moore, a prominent Christian Zionist leader ranked No. 2 on the Jerusalem Post's list of top 10 leading Christian Zionists, has resigned from her position at the Heritage Foundation after clashing with its president over the organization's refusal to cut ties with Tucker Carlson. Cardoza-Moore, founder and president of Proclaiming Justice to the Nations and host of “Focus on Israel,” stepped down from her role on Heritage's task force to combat antisemitism. The move followed Heritage President Kevin Roberts' decision not to sever relations with Carlson after the former Fox News host interviewed Nick Fuentes, a self-described Hitler admirer. During the interview, Cardoza-Moore expressed frustration with Carlson's pattern of platforming critics of Israel and alleged antisemites since leaving Fox News. She cited his interview with Bethlehem Pastor Munther Isaac, whom she called a “fraud,” during which Isaac claimed Israel is “occupying Palestinian land.” Cardoza-Moore said she confronted Carlson directly after the interview, asking why he failed to challenge Isaac's statement. “You're a Christian, you've read your Bible, haven't you?” she recalled telling him. “You're supposed to be educated and informed.” According to Cardoza-Moore, Carlson dismissed the historical inaccuracy as unimportant. She also criticized Vice President JD Vance for failing to defend the U.S.-Israel relationship during a recent speech at a Turning Point USA event at the University of Mississippi. Vance, a recent convert to Catholicism, did not highlight Israel's contributions to science, medicine, green energy, military intelligence or high-tech innovation, she said. When asked about theological differences between Jews and Christians, Vance allowed questions with “antisemitic undertones” to go unanswered, Cardoza-Moore added. Citing the Second Vatican Council's Nostra Aetate, which declares antisemitism incompatible with Christian teaching, she accused Vance of misunderstanding biblical principles. Cardoza-Moore warned that America is approaching a “new war against the Jews,” drawing parallels to 1930s Germany. She invoked Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the Christian theologian who broke from the Lutheran Church as it aligned with the Nazis and preached against them even as they sat in his congregation. “We are at the doorstep of the same situation,” she said. Cardoza-Moore's resignation and public criticisms underscore growing tensions within conservative circles over Israel, antisemitism and the influence of figures like Carlson. -VIN News Alan Skorski Reports 17NOV2025 - PODCAST
Glenn reacts to a recent Tucker Carlson statement on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, addressing his conflicting views on pacifism and the elimination of a grave evil. Glenn and Stu discuss the dangers of a digital ID after Apple announced a digital ID system made for traveling. Michael Iskander, who portrays David in Amazon's "House of David" series, joins to discuss the elements it takes to be a great leader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tucker Carlson recently did an expose on Thomas Matthew Crooks, the man who got within a fraction of an inch of assassinating President Donald Trump. Biden's FBI claimed he was a MAGA extremist right-winger with a questionable online digital footprint. However, Tucker questions a lot of the notions you've been fed regarding this would-be assassin. Did Biden's FBI lie about Crooks? Glenn asks the questions that need answers regarding the investigation into Trump's would-be assassin. Glenn discusses his most recent podcast with author Timothy Alberino. Glenn reacts to a recent Tucker Carlson statement on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, addressing his conflicting views on pacifism and the elimination of a grave evil. The ability to have nuanced conversations with people you disagree with is critical for a civilized society. Glenn and Stu discuss the dangers of digital ID after Apple announced a digital ID system made for traveling. Michael Iskander, who portrays David in Amazon's "House of David" series, joins to discuss the elements it takes to be a great leader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Thursday's Mark Levin Show, there's a cabal of grifters who absolutely lack principles. First, Megyn Kelly questioned whether Jeffrey Epstein was a pedophile, claiming he preferred "barely legal" 15-year-old girls who could pass as older, rather than younger children, based on an insider's view. This is disgusting. Then there's Steve Bannon who exchanged hundreds of emails and met at least once with Epstein. Bannon created videos with Epstein to teach him how to handle hostile press. Why would anyone associate with Epstein? There's newly unsealed federal court documents detail how a 17-year-old homeless girl in Florida allegedly had sex with former Re. Matt Gaetz for $400 to fund braces for her teeth. And lastly there's Tucker Carlson who targeted Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the anti-Nazi Christian evangelist who tried to kill Hitler. It's time to clean up our own house who have a twisted version of American First. Later, the U.S. healthcare system is the world's best, but some sort of health savings accounts that put more money in people's pockets, enabling them to choose and pay for their own healthcare premiums would be a great idea. Afterward, Gov Gavin Newsom's former chief of staff was indicted on 23 federal counts including conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud. Finally, will Barack Obama's library feature sections on figures like Mao, Lenin, Trotsky, Stalin, Marx, and Engels, as well as racist America? To build his library Obama demolished a cherished national landmark—designed by Frederick Law Olmsted for the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. It's ironic that Obama protects monuments elsewhere but destroys this historic area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Pulling together the ethics of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the surprising depth of Australian kids cartoon “Bluey”, Vince shares about his complicated feelings around things like Veteran's Day, as someone who is BOTH anti-military-industrial-complex AND grateful for the way the army saved his brother. (Bonhoeffer Icon by Kelly Latimore)SIGN UP FOR A BRUNCH NOV 30: https://forms.gle/QvErpBScu735WXH29 Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resources Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate
Pulling together the ethics of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the surprising depth of Australian kids cartoon “Bluey”, Vince shares about his complicated feelings around things like Veteran's Day, as someone who is BOTH anti-military-industrial-complex AND grateful for the way the army saved his brother. (Bonhoeffer Icon by Kelly Latimore)SIGN UP FOR A BRUNCH NOV 30: https://forms.gle/QvErpBScu735WXH29 Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resources Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate
A lot of people believe in Jesus—but fewer are truly following Him. In this episode of The Youth Room, we're asking a bold question: What does it really mean to be a disciple?Drawing from Scripture, the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Jesus' own words in Luke 14, we explore the real cost of following Christ. It's not about convenience or comfort. It's about surrender.Inside this episode:Why “cheap grace” isn't enoughWhat Jesus meant by “take up your cross”How discipleship impacts your relationships, priorities, and what you consumeWhy surrender is the only way to true freedomThis one's direct, honest, and challenging. If you're serious about your walk with God, this is a conversation you don't want to skip.Listen now. Reflect deeply. And ask: What might Jesus be asking me to surrender?
When you truly take Jesus seriously, it will cost you something — comfort, approval, maybe even your life. Dietrich Bonhoeffer's story reminds us that real discipleship isn't safe, but it's the only kind of faith that changes the world. CONNECT: Text “BRBELONG” to 651-419-4409 DONATE: bethelsrock.org/give LEARN MORE: bethelsrock.org NEW SERMONS | EVERY SUNDAY
Proverbs 16:9 says this: “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” One of the great encouragements for us as believers is to know that God is providentially orchestrating all the events of our lives for His glory and for our good. Ultimately, that's good to know, although it is not always easy to embrace. Faithfulness to God and his mission requires that we as Christians hold our plans loosely and be prepared for unexpected and often sudden changes in the direction of our lives and our ministries. This may happen on a grand scale when some large-scale political or economic change happens that redirects a Christian's location or vocation. It may include a job transfer or a significant health change. It can also happen on a small scale in just daily disruptions to what we had planned for our day or our week. Dietrich Bonhoeffer once wrote “We must be ready to allow ourselves to be interrupted by God. God will be constantly crossing our paths and canceling our plans by sending us people with claims and petitions. We may pass them by preoccupied with our more important tasks, as the priest passed by the man who had fallen among thieves, perhaps—reading the Bible.” Bonhoeffer's warning is good for us. The posture of every believer is a humble submission to all the possible changes and interruptions that God sends our way for our good and for the good of His mission in the world. It's His mission. God directs His people and orchestrates their lives for His good and perfect plans in this world. How are you doing with this? Do you possess the kind of teachable flexibility that allows you both to be joyful and available when God leads us in unexpected ways? Our sermon this Sunday will be taken from Acts 16:6-15 and it is called “The God who Opens Doors and Hearts.” This is a super helpful and encouraging passage of Scripture.
Patrick and Ryan return to Between the Lines to explore the Good Way intention of active participation in the family of Jesus. They reflect on how Jesus redefines family around those who delight in doing the Father's will (7:35) and how true community values unity over uniformity (14:50). The pastors discuss the beauty and difficulty of belonging—embracing conflict, reconciliation, and shared burdens as the work of love (25:40)—and share personal practices like hospitality, generosity, and opening one's home to others (49:10). They close with a call to move from consumption to contribution in the life of the church and recommend Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Life Together as further reading (1:06:30).Hosts: Patrick Boatwright and Ryan Diaz
In today's episode, Philip Ziegler joins the podcast to talk about his new Baylor Press book God's Adversary and Ours. Ziegler leads us on a cautious but determined biblical-theological exploration of the identity, ontology, and agency of "that old serpent," the Enemy, whose image becomes most discernible and salient in direct contact with the person and work of the Savior. Fixing attention upon the figure of the devil in a soteriological context confronts us with what the devil does; what the devil might be trails behind. Treating diabolical temptation, demonic possession, and devilish falsehood in turn, Ziegler demonstrates what resistance to—and faithful disbelief of—these three aspects of the devil's business might mean for the shape of a Christian life.Professor Philip G. Ziegler is a theologian specializing in systematic theology, historical theology, and ethics. He holds the personal chair of Professor of Christian Dogmatics at the University of Aberdeen's School of Divinity, History, Philosophy & Art History. Previously, he taught at the Atlantic School of Theology in Canada and held postdoctoral fellowships at Princeton University. Ordained in the United Church of Canada since 1996, he also serves as an associated elder at St Machar Cathedral and Trustee of the Church of Scotland's General Assembly. His research focuses on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Karl Barth, and apocalyptic theology, with recent work exploring Christology, ethical responsibility, and divine freedom.
Can indecision hold your spiritual life hostage? We explore this compelling question by diving into the dramatic biblical story of Elijah's confrontation with King Ahab and the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. This narrative underscores the vital importance of making firm choices and committing to God, especially amidst life's uncertainties. Drawing from the profound insights in James, we emphasize the necessity of seeking God's wisdom to overcome the paralysis of indecision, as wavering beliefs can lead us astray. As we navigate the "valley of decision," inspired by Joel chapter 3, we confront the internal struggles and fears that accompany choice-making. Indecision often stems from fear of the consequences, but recognizing the urgency and judgment that awaits can spur us to action. Here, we learn the importance of taking self-inventory and pursuing wisdom, while considering the eternal consequences of our choices. With examples from notable figures like Charlie Kirk and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, we discuss the transformative power of living for God and the courage required to embrace truth and self-denial. Finally, we reflect on the essence of choosing to live by faith, inspired by the teachings of both scripture and the lives of those who have walked the path before us. Through prayer and seeking God's guidance, we can find the strength to become not just hearers, but doers of the word. Join us as we explore how each decision impacts not only our lives but also future generations, reminding ourselves of the peace and direction found in committing wholeheartedly to faith. Where to dive in: (00:08) Decide (12:32) Valley of Decision and Consequences (22:40) Seeking God's Wisdom for Decision Making (36:51) Choosing to Live for God (44:18) Deciding to Live by Faith (57:07) Choose You This Day (01:05:51) Finding God's Guidance Through Faith Next steps: - Spend Time in the Word: Read the passages mentioned today: 1 Kings 18, James 1, Joel 3, and Joshua 24. - Reflect on what it means to choose God daily — not just in belief, but in every decision. - Ask God for Wisdom Daily: Make it part of your morning routine to say, “Lord, give me wisdom for what's ahead.” Let that simple prayer be your first step toward clarity and peace. - Share This Message: If this episode encouraged you, send it to a friend or family member who might also feel stuck between choices. Sometimes, your obedience opens the door for someone else's freedom. About your host: Jaime Luce' testimony has daunting personal mountains and treacherous financial valleys. She was trapped in day-to-day stress and couldn't see a way forward. But how she started is not how she finished! And she wants you to know God has a plan for your life too, no matter how tough it seems. Today, Jaime has been married to the love of her life for almost three decades, owns two companies, and has become an author and podcaster. God's way is always the blessed way! Free chapter of Jaime's new book: You Don't Need Money, You Just Need God: https://jaimeluce.com/book/ Connect: - Website: https://jaimeluce.com - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaime.luces.page - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaime_luce/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaime-luce-00395691/
Check out the Theology in the Raw Patreon community for bonus content, extra episodes, and discounted event tickets! Today's guest is my longtime friend Dr. Joel Willitts. On this episode, Joel shares his difficult journey navigating faith and life after being sexually abused by a family member in his youth. It's an incredibly raw conversation —if you're sensitive to these topics, please make sure to prepare yourself before listening.Joel is a Professor in the Biblical and Theological Studies Department at North Park University in Chicago, IL, where he's taught for over twenty years. His academic journey began at Liberty University (B.A. '92), followed by a Th.M. from Dallas Seminary ('00), and an M.Phil. ('02) and Ph.D. ('07) from Cambridge University. His intellectual curiosities are many, included the Jewish Context of the New Testament and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. He enjoys travel, running marathons, watching baseball (especially the Yankees!), listening to U2, and reading. He live in the suburbs of Chicago and has boy-girl twins who are freshmen at North Park University. He's been married to Karla for 33 years. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Theologian Miroslav Volf reflects on solitude, loneliness, and how being alone can reveal our humanity, selfhood, and relationship with God.This episode is part 1 of a 5-part series, SOLO, which explores the theological, moral, and psychological dimensions of loneliness, solitude, and being alone.“Solitude brings one back in touch with who one is—it's how we stabilize ourselves so we know how to be ourselves with others.”Macie Bridge welcomes Miroslav for a conversation on solitude and being oneself—probing the difference between loneliness and aloneness, and the essential role of solitude in a flourishing Christian life. Reflecting on Genesis, the Incarnation, and the sensory life of faith, Volf considers how we can both embrace solitude and attend to the loneliness of others.He shares personal reflections on his mother's daily prayer practice and how solitude grounded her in divine presence. Volf describes how solitude restores the self before God and others: “Nobody can be me instead of me.” It is possible, he suggests, that we can we rediscover the presence of God in every relationship—solitary or shared.Helpful Links and ResourcesThe Cost of Ambition: How Striving to Be Better Than Others Makes Us WorseFyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and PunishmentRainer Maria Rilke, Book of Hours (Buch der Stunden)Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Creation and FallEpisode Highlights“Nobody can be me instead of me. And since I must be me, to be me well, I need times with myself.”“It's not good, in almost a metaphysical sense, for us to be alone. We aren't ourselves when we are simply alone.”“Solitude brings one back in touch with who one is—it's how we stabilize ourselves so we know how to be ourselves with others.”“Our relationship to God is mediated by our relationships to others. To honor another is to honor God.”“When we attend to the loneliness of others, in some ways we tend to our own loneliness.”Solitude, Loneliness, and FlourishingThe difference between solitude (constructive aloneness) and loneliness (diminishment of self).COVID-19 as an amplifier of solitude and loneliness.Volf's experience of being alone at Yale—productive solitude without loneliness.Loneliness as “the absence of an affirming glance.”Aloneness as essential for self-reflection and renewal before others.Humanity, Creation, and RelationshipAdam's solitude in Genesis as an incomplete creation—“It is not good for man to be alone.”Human beings as fundamentally social and political.A newborn cannot flourish without touch and gaze—relational presence is constitutive of personhood.Solitude and communion exist in dynamic tension; both must be rightly measured.Jesus's Solitude and Human ResponsibilityJesus withdrawing to pray as a model of sacred solitude.Solitude allows one to “return to oneself,” guarding against being lost in the crowd.The danger of losing selfhood in relationships, “becoming echoes of the crowd.”God, Limits, and OthersEvery other person as a God-given limit—“To honor another is to honor God.”Violating others as transgressing divine boundaries.True spirituality as respecting the space, limit, and presence of the other.Touch, Senses, and the ChurchThe sensory dimension of faith—seeing, touching, being seen.Mary's anointing of Jesus as embodied gospel.Rilke's “ripe seeing”: vision as invitation and affirmation.The church as a site of embodied presence—touch, seeing, listening as acts of communion.The Fear of Violation and the Gift of RespectLoneliness often born from fear of being violated rather than from lack of company.Loving another includes honoring their limit and respecting their freedom.Practical Reflections on LonelinessQuestions Volf asks himself: “Do I dare to be alone? How do I draw strength when I feel lonely?”The paradox of social connection in a digital age—teenagers side by side, “completely disconnected.”Love as sheer presence—“By sheer being, having a loving attitude, I relieve another's loneliness.”The Spiritual Discipline of SolitudeVolf's mother's daily hour of morning prayer—learning to hear God's voice like Samuel.Solitude as the ground for transformation: narrating oneself before God.“Nobody can die in my place… nobody can live my life in my place.”Solitude as preparation for love and life in community.About Miroslav VolfMiroslav Volf is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School and Founding Director of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture. He is the author of Exclusion and Embrace, Flourishing: Why We Need Religion in a Globalized World, and numerous works on theology, culture, and human flourishing—most recently The Cost of Ambition: How Striving to Be Better Than Others Makes Us Worse.Production NotesThis podcast featured Miroslav VolfInterview by Macie BridgeEdited and Produced by Evan RosaProduction Assistance by Alexa Rollow, Emily Brookfield, and Hope ChunA Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/aboutSupport For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give
Speaker: Levi Rennick --- A special All Saints addendum exploring the influence of Bonhoeffer.
In this first installment of Antifascist Christianity: Black Jesus, Matthew revisits Dietrich Bonhoeffer's journey from the theological classrooms of Berlin to the Black churches of Harlem — where he encountered a Jesus entirely unlike the imperial figure of his upbringing. Bonhoeffer arrived in New York a servant of white European Christendom, and left transformed by the radical, suffering, and liberatory presence of Black Jesus. Matthew connects Bonhoeffer's awakening to today's spectacle of white nationalism in worship — from the triumphalist religion on display at Charlie Kirk's memorial to the enduring cultural power of “white Jesus” as theology for empire. Drawing on Reggie Williams's Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus, Cedric Robinson's Black Marxism, and Jeanelle Hope and Bill Mullen's The Black Antifascist Tradition, the episode traces how colonialism created a Christ built to bless domination, and how the Black church reclaimed him through solidarity, suffering, and resistance. The contrast between the fortress hymn A Mighty Fortress Is Our God and the spiritual Were You There becomes the turning point in Bonhoeffer's faith — from triumph to trembling, from power to empathy. Part 2, out Monday on Patreon, explores how liberal Christianity tried to stand between these poles, and why it failed. Show Notes Hope, Jeanelle K., and Bill V. Mullen. The Black Antifascist Tradition. Chicago, IL: Haymarket Books, 2023. Robinson, Cedric J. Black Marxism: The Making of the Black Radical Tradition. Revised and Updated Third Edition. Foreword by Robin D. G. Kelley. Preface by Damien Sojoyner and Tiffany Willoughby-Herard. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 2020. Williams, Reggie L. Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and an Ethic of Resistance. Waco, TX: Baylor University Press, 2014. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael engage in a deep conversation with Mark Thiessen Nation about the life and works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. They explore Bonhoeffer's stance on pacifism, the influence of Eberhard Bethge, and the misrepresentation of Bonhoeffer in popular media. The discussion delves into the complexities of Bonhoeffer's … Continue reading "Episode 210: Unpacking Bonhoeffer's Legacy with Mark Thiessen Nation"
In this episode of the Eyes on Jesus Podcast, Drew and Tim dive into one of the most sobering yet inspiring themes in the history of the church—martyrdom. From the earliest disciples to modern believers still facing persecution today, the stories of those who gave everything for Christ challenge us to examine our own faith. What does it mean to live with boldness instead of fear? And how can we honor the legacy of martyrs in the way we live today?The Testimony of Martyrs Through the AgesDrew and Tim highlight the lives of powerful witnesses like Polycarp, Perpetua and Felicity, Ignatius of Antioch, William Tyndale, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Jim Elliott. Each story reminds us of the cost of discipleship and the unshakable hope found in Christ. Polycarp's famous words still echo across time: “Eighty and six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” These voices form a “cloud of witnesses” that continues to inspire faith today.Martyrdom in the Modern WorldWhile many of us live in places of relative freedom, persecution and martyrdom are still very real in countries like Nigeria, China, and North Korea. Drew and Tim explore how the church often grows strongest in places where faith is tested most. They also reflect on what it looks like to stand boldly in contexts where persecution is more subtle—social, cultural, or ideological.Boldness Over FearOne of the key takeaways from Acts is that the disciples didn't pray for protection—they prayed for boldness. That same spirit is needed now. Whether facing public hostility, workplace pressure, or even the quiet temptation to compromise, believers today are called to live courageously and keep their eyes fixed on Jesus.Living as WitnessesThe stories of martyrs are not just historical records; they are ongoing testimonies that shape how we live as disciples in our own time. Drew and Tim challenge listeners to ask: What kind of legacy are we leaving? Are we living as bold witnesses, or letting fear and comfort dictate our choices?ConclusionThis conversation is both convicting and inspiring. The blood of the martyrs has indeed been the seed of the church, and their faith continues to call us higher. May we embrace boldness, honor their witness, and keep our eyes on Jesus in a world still desperate for His light.Get the most comfortable shirts we've ever worn!https://kingdomandwill.com/Use code: EYESONJESUS for 15% off Get all our links in one easy place! https://linktr.ee/eyesonjesuspodcastGet the Eyes on Jesus 90 Day Discernment Devotionalhttps://a.co/d/3v8963sJoin our Group on Facebook- Eyes on Jesus podcast community https://www.facebook.com/groups/eyesonjesuspodcastEmail feedback, questions or show topic ideas to eyesonjesuspodcast@outlook.comFor more information on Drew Barker: Follow Drew on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pastordrewbarkerDrew's church's website https://yes.online/For more information on Tim Ferrara: Get all his links in one place- to his social media, all 3 of his books, and more at https://linktr.ee/discerning_dad
The Scriptures are full of admonitions both to fight for the Lord and his ways and to rest in the Lord. But what does that look like in everyday life? When to fight? When to rest? And even worse for everyday-Sunday believers, what to do when a syrypy-goo is poured thick over all that?! We talk through everyday realities between the poles of fighting and resting, then we also ask what it means to fight (or whether to fight) for the health of culture and sign. On the one hand we're called to be gracious (which gets corrupted to mean "we must be nice!"). On the other hand we're called to be faithful. What did seizing the problem mean for Mark as a mailman? What did seizing the problem mean for Ed as a professor? What did Dietrich Bonhoeffer have to say about what it means to be a Christian in the midst of a fracasso? Come think and laugh with us!
In this thought-provoking episode of Thinking Out Loud, Nathan and Cameron tackle the complex and emotionally charged topic of martyrdom, using the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk as a lens to examine how Christians should think about suffering, political identity, and gospel witness. Drawing from theological tradition and historical parallels like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, they explore three possible frameworks for understanding Kirk's death—Christian martyr, political martyr, or a hybrid of both. With careful attention to language, biblical definitions, and the cultural moment, this deep-dive invites Christians to move beyond knee-jerk reactions and reflect theologically on the meaning of true sacrifice and public faith. Whether you're wrestling with the term “martyr” in light of recent events or seeking clarity in how Christians engage with political power, this episode offers nuanced, faithful insight grounded in Scripture and church history. Perfect for believers seeking serious Christian analysis of current events, especially where faith and politics intersect.DONATE LINK: https://toltogether.com/donate BOOK A SPEAKER: https://toltogether.com/book-a-speakerJOIN TOL CONNECT: https://toltogether.com/tol-connect TOL Connect is an online forum where TOL listeners can continue the conversation begun on the podcast.
Featuring the powerful story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German Lutheran pastor who fled to safety in America in 1939 but immediately returned to Nazi Germany to serve persecuted Christians, this message challenges comfortable Christianity and calls believers to show kindness to those who have nothing to offer in return, not because it benefits us, but simply because of who we are and whose we are in Christ Jesus.
Matthew begins a two-part exploration of Simone Weil—French philosopher, mystic, and antifascist activist—through the lens of autism, embodiment, and political courage. Following the earlier Antifascist Christianity Woodshed series on Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this installment positions Weil as a kind of spiritual auntie to Greta Thunberg, whose uncompromising honesty, rooted in autistic perception, continues to disrupt fascist, capitalist, and liberal narrative. Matthew traces Weil's journey from childhood acts of solidarity, like giving up sugar during WW1, to her immersion in factory labor, revolutionary syndicalism, and frontline service in the Spanish Civil War. Weil's refusal of privilege and their lifelong impulse to take on suffering emerge as core features of both her philosophy and her autistic experience. They also stood up to Leon Trotsky, calling out Soviet authoritarianism long before its collapse. Weil can be understood not only through the posthumous notebooks and essays that editors and institutions reshaped into seventeen volumes, but through the lived reality of their embodied resistance. Their ideas remain striking: the notion of attention as the rarest form of generosity; the insistence that obligations come before rights; the practice of “decreation” as a release of ego in the service of love; and the “need for roots” as an antifascist alternative to blood-and-soil nationalism. Part 2 of this series drops Monday on Patreon, where Matthew goes deeper into Weil's autistic traits, their spiritual life, and how their philosophy continues to confront liberalism and fascism alike. Support us on Patreon to access Part 2 and the full Antifascist Woodshed series. Show NotesColes, Robert. Simone Weil: A Modern Pilgrimage. Woodstock, VT: SkyLight Paths Publishing, 2001. Fitzgerald, Michael. The Genesis of Artistic Creativity: Asperger's Syndrome and the Arts. London and Philadelphia: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2006. Gilman-Opalsky, Richard. The Communism of Love: An Inquiry into the Poverty of Exchange Value. Chico, CA: AK Press, 2020. Lawson, Kathryn. Ecological Ethics and the Philosophy of Simone Weil. New York: Routledge, 2024. doi:10.4324/9781003449621. McCullough, Lissa. The Religious Philosophy of Simone Weil: An Introduction. London: I.B. Tauris & Co Ltd, 2014. Plant, Stephen. Simone Weil: A Brief Introduction. Revised and expanded edition. Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 2008. Song, Youming, Tingting Nie, Wendian Shi, Xudong Zhao, and Yongyong Yang. "Empathy Impairment in Individuals With Autism Spectrum Conditions From a Multidimensional Perspective: A Meta-Analysis." Frontiers in Psychology 10 (October 9, 2019): 01902. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01902. Wallace, Cynthia R. The Literary Afterlives of Simone Weil: Feminism, Justice, and the Challenge of Religion. New York: Columbia University Press, 2024. Weil, Simone. The Need for Roots: Prelude to a Declaration of Duties towards Mankind. Translated by Arthur Wills. With a preface by T. S. Eliot. Routledge Classics. London and New York: Routledge, 2002. Weil, Simone. Modern Classics Simone Weil: An Anthology. Edited and Introduced by Siân Miles. London: Penguin Books, 2005. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This sermon on Luke 14:25–33 examines the radical cost of following Christ through the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. From Harlem's Abyssinian Baptist Church to resisting Hitler, Bonhoeffer models “costly grace.” Three lessons call the Church to humility, faithfulness over tradition, and resurrection hope in the face of death.
Matthew recounts the story of a young, hoity-toity soft-nationalist German theologian named Dietrich Bonhoeffer who discovered the radical soul of antifascism by hanging out in a Black Baptist church in Harlem in 1930. He came to the US believing in the white Jesus of European empire, but left enthralled by the Black Jesus of the oppressed. Back in Germany, he played 78s of spirituals and gospel tunes for the students of his illegal seminaries as he and other members of the Confessing Church issued some of the earliest formal rebukes to the Reich. And then he joined a plot to assassinate Hitler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Matthew recounts the story of a young, hoity-toity soft-nationalist German theologian named Dietrich Bonhoeffer who discovered the radical soul of antifascism by hanging out in a Black Baptist church in Harlem in 1930. He came to the US believing in the white Jesus of European empire, but left enthralled by the Black Jesus of the oppressed. Back in Germany, he played 78s of spirituals and gospel tunes for the students of his illegal seminaries as he and other members of the Confessing Church issued some of the earliest formal rebukes to the Reich. And then he joined a plot to assassinate Hitler. Show Notes UCLA Fires Beloved Professor Over 2024 Encampment Arrest – Poppy Press NY Mayoral Candidates Address Sanctuary, Trump and Religious Hatred at Interfaith Forum Religion and Socialism Working Group - Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) Undersold and Oversold: Reinhold Neibuhr and Economic Justice Swing Low Sweet Chariot - Fisk Jubilee Singers (1909) St. James Missionary Baptist Church of Canton: Wade In the Water (1978) Evangelische Kirche Halle Westfalen Bethge, Eberhard. Dietrich Bonhoeffer: A Biography. Translated by Eric Mosbacher, Peter and Betty Ross, Frank Clarke, and William Glen-Doepel. Revised and edited by Victoria J. Barnett. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. Translated by R. H. Fuller, revised by Irmgard Booth. New York: Touchstone, 2018. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Letters and Papers from Prison. Edited by Eberhard Bethge. Translated by Reginald Fuller, Frank Clark, and John Bowden. New York: Touchstone, 1997. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Bonhoeffer Reader. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2013. Marsh, Charles. Strange Glory. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2014. Martin, Eric. The Writing on the Wall: Signs of Faith Against Fascism. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2022. McNeil, Genna Rae, Houston Bryan Roberson, Quinton Hosford Dixie, and Kevin McGruder. Witness: Two Hundred Years of African-American Faith and Practice at the Abyssinian Baptist Church of Harlem, New York. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2014. Tietz, Christiane. Theologian of Resistance: The Life and Thought of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Translated by Victoria J. Barnett. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2016. Weil, Simone. The Need for Roots: Prelude to a Declaration of Duties towards Mankind. Translated by Arthur Wills. With a preface by T. S. Eliot. New York: Routledge, 2002. Williams, Reggie L. Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and an Ethic of Resistance. Waco, Texas: Baylor University Press, 2014. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What does it mean to live in community with other Christians? Today, Stephen Nichols explores the wisdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Life Together, offering insights into how believers grow together in grace under God's Word. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/5-minutes-in-church-history-with-stephen-nichols/life-together-2025/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer once wrote, “The Christian needs another Christian… for by himself he cannot help himself.” In this special program, Chip explains why godly, authentic community is the antidote for many Christians who feel lonely and disconnected from the Body of Christ. Hear why simply being a ‘consumer' of a church is not enough and how forging meaningful bonds with fellow believers can transform your faith.Stories Over Data: Chip emphasizes that stories resonate more deeply than facts, capturing hearts and imaginations.Beyond Surface-Level Connection: Chip shares his personal journey of realizing the need for deeper relationships beyond a "perfect" church experience, highlighting the emptiness of being "relationally high and dry."The Power of Participation: True spiritual growth and discovering one's purpose come from active engagement and genuine connection within a community, not just passive consumption.Fulfilling Core Needs: Chip argues that fundamental human longings for connection and purpose can only be met through authentic relationships, combating widespread loneliness and depression.Small Groups are Key: Intimate small groups provide the essential environment for true relationships to flourish, allowing individuals to be known, supported, and transformed.Call to Action: Chip urges listeners to join or start a small group, emphasizing that significant life change happens in the context of supportive community.Personal Impact: Chip shares how his own monthly small group provides vital sustenance and ongoing personal growth.Broadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Additional Resource MentionsSmall Group ResourcesConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003