Dietrich Bonhoeffer Quotes
A collection of quotes by Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) was a German Lutheran pastor, theologian, and anti-Nazi dissident. Born into an aristocratic family, he displayed an early talent for theology and pursued his interest at the University of Berlin and Union Theological Seminary in New York City. Deeply influenced by his experiences in the United States and his travels to India, Bonhoeffer developed a theology that emphasized the importance of Christian ethics and the responsibility of believers to actively resist evil in the world.
As Adolf Hitler rose to power, Bonhoeffer became increasingly convinced of the need to confront the Nazi regime. He joined the Confessing Church, a movement that opposed the Nazification of German Protestantism, and was involved in underground activities to help Jews escape persecution and provide theological training outside state control. Bonhoeffer's resistance efforts escalated, leading to his arrest in April 1943.
Imprisoned for his involvement in a plot to assassinate Hitler, Bonhoeffer's faith and resilience shone through in his letters and writings from prison. His work "The Cost of Discipleship" remains a significant theological reflection on the radical demands of Christian discipleship.
Tragically, Bonhoeffer was executed on April 9, 1945, just weeks before the end of World War II. His life and writings continue to influence and inspire millions, cementing his status as one of the most renowned theologians and moral exemplars of the 20th century.
