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Dietrich Bonhoeffer 1906-1945: Martyr, Thinker, Man of Resistance
A new comprehensive biography of this hugely important Christian martyr, 60 years after his execution at the hands of the Nazis Bonhoeffer has gained a position as one of the most prominent Christian martyrs of the last century. His influence is so widespread that even 60 years after his execution by the Nazis, Bonhoeffer's life and work are still the subject of fresh and lively discussion. As a pastor and theologian, Bonhoeffer decided to resist the Nazis in Germany, but his resistance was not solely theological. He played a key leadership role in the Confessing Church, a major source of Christian opposition to Hitler and his anti-Semitism and was principal of the secret seminary at Finkenwalde in Pomerania.It was here that he developed his theological visions of radical discipleship and communal life. In 1938, he joined the Wehrmacht's "Abwehr", the German Military Intelligence Office, in order to seek international support for the plot against Hitler. Following his inner calling and conscience meant that Bonhoeffer was continually forced to make decisions that separated him from his family, friends, and colleagues, and which ultimately led to his martyrdom in Flossenbürg concentration camp, less than a month before the Second World War came to an end. His letters and papers from prison movingly express the development of some of the most provocative and fascinating ideas of 20th century theology.Sixty years after Bonhoeffer's death and forty years after the publication of Eberhard Bethge's ground breaking biography, Ferdinand Schlingensiepen offers a definitive new book on Bonhoeffer, for a new generation of readers. Schlingensiepen takes into account documents that have only been made accessible during the last few years - such as the letters between Bonhoeffer and his fiancée Maria von Wedemeyer. Schlingensiepen's careful narrative brings to life the historical events, as well as displaying the theological development of one of the most creative thinkers of the 20th century, who was to become one of its most tragic martyrs.
470 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2005
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
May 26, 2012
Having read both Bethge's classic biography and the more recent one by Metaxas, I read this work by Schlingensiepen not to learn new information, although there is some of that, but to see how the author portrays Bonhoeffer. Schlingensiepen's writing style does not read as easily as Metaxas, but overall he presents a fuller, deeper, more rounded picture of Bonhoeffer. Metaxas may provoke more interest in Bonhoeffer, but in doing so presents a somewhat limited picture of the man. I would recommend that any who want a better understanding of Bonhoeffer, his thinking and his life read Schlingensiepen's work.
October 15, 2025
This bio is for the die-hard Bonhoeffer fan. It does a great job presenting the wider context that surrounded Bonhoeffer. The research and detail is high quality. I liked the chronological, rather than thematic, organization. But man, my head is crammed full of names that I will soon forget. And I still don't feel I have a good sense of Bonhoeffer's personality or his works.
This was written in German first, and then translated to English. Some of the language is stilted, rougher, and flows less naturally. I sense the translator was also not a native English speaker, as there's a natural word or two missing here and there. Many references go right past with no explanation (who knows what the distinguishing features of Swabian culture are... anyone?).
I knew very little about Bonhoeffer going into this. I wanted to make sure to read a better bio first, before reading the (what I'm told is the) error-filled Metaxas bio (see Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy). I asked for a recommendation from a friend who had studied Bonhoeffer formally, and this was the first one he mentioned. See Joel Looper's Bonhoeffer's America: A Land without Reformation.
This was written in German first, and then translated to English. Some of the language is stilted, rougher, and flows less naturally. I sense the translator was also not a native English speaker, as there's a natural word or two missing here and there. Many references go right past with no explanation (who knows what the distinguishing features of Swabian culture are... anyone?).
I knew very little about Bonhoeffer going into this. I wanted to make sure to read a better bio first, before reading the (what I'm told is the) error-filled Metaxas bio (see Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy). I asked for a recommendation from a friend who had studied Bonhoeffer formally, and this was the first one he mentioned. See Joel Looper's Bonhoeffer's America: A Land without Reformation.
January 22, 2011
Dietrich Bonhoeffer is one of the seminal theologians of the 20th century and a person's whose life exemplified commitment to the ideals of Jesus Christ. This biography is, in my mind, the best introduction to his life that is available today. It is fair and comprehensive. It deals with the relevant sources and doesn't try to claim Bonhoeffer for a particular religious party. If you want to know about Bonhoeffer, here is the place to go!
December 25, 2013
A fine biography of Bonhoeffer. Whereas Metaxis's biography (as engaging a book as that is) seems to try to make DB into an American evangelical, Schlingensiepen shows much more clearly both his German theological roots and his connection--both personally and theologically--to Karl Barth. This won't be as easy for most Americans to read but it seems more faithful to Bonhoeffer's life and thought.
April 11, 2017
This is the best biography of Bonhoeffer that I've read. I thank Dr. Young Ho Chun for making the suggestion after I had read the Eric Metaxas treatment. Schlingensiepen's book is carefully written using the latest research, with no ax to grind. I recommend it highly. I read it slowly, savoring the various sagas of a life that was all too short. Want to know Bonhoeffer, read this book.
April 24, 2012
Short Review: I have read Metaxas biography of Bonhoeffer. And while I think it is a decent biography, this one is better. Bonhoeffer's place in Germany, his theology, the history and his own writing are all better presented here. The problem with the biography is that it is expensive and harder to find. But I would make the effort, track the price of the kindle book or look in used book stores. Bonhoeffer is worth the effort to explore.
My full review is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/1906-1945/
My full review is on my blog at http://bookwi.se/1906-1945/
January 28, 2021
I've known Bonhoeffer's basic story for a long time, and have read with appreciation some of his most well-known works, but this was my first time reading a biography about him. Really well done, with lots of details. My only complaint is that some of the details about various Nazi officials or individuals within the various resistance groups could become a bit overwhelming and tended to pull the attention away from Bonhoeffer's own life at times. However, as a glimpse into the political and ecclesial context, the details are surely worthwhile. I just found myself occasionally glazing over. But what a life.
August 28, 2020
What an incredible and complex man
September 15, 2022
This is a very detailed biography of an important figure in 20th century history. By the end, it's not hard to see why Bonhoeffer is memorialised as a martyr at Westminster Abbey.
For the general reader, like me, however, it probably goes into more detail about B's theological beliefs and work than is comfortable. I must admit, I skimmed through some of the more abstruse passages.
Well worth reading nevertheless. You'll need a very good command of German to read this in the original, but it's available in English translation.
For the general reader, like me, however, it probably goes into more detail about B's theological beliefs and work than is comfortable. I must admit, I skimmed through some of the more abstruse passages.
Well worth reading nevertheless. You'll need a very good command of German to read this in the original, but it's available in English translation.
November 12, 2021
What an amazing book about an even more amazing man. Some reviews had me concerned that the German to English translation would make the prose a bit clunky, but I didn't find that to be the case at all. This was a great balance of biographical story mixed with Bonhoeffer's theology and evolution of thought. Bonhoeffer was such a great thinker, a man of principle, and a patriot for his country, even willing to put his life on the line for principles without anyone telling him to do so.
Quite the opposite actually. One can only imagine how hard it is to live for truth when the societal pressure to conform to lies is so great. Looking back with 20/20 vision, we all like to think we would act similarly with regard to such a terrible regime. But we probably wouldn’t. When moments of decision arrive, we like to defer, hoping things will get better, or convincing ourselves that things aren’t really that bad yet – until it is and then it’s too late.
Bonhoeffer himself had many opportunities to jump to relative safety. He could have remained in the United States, or in England, or remained in many of the other locations abroad to which he traveled, even after the outbreak of war. However, he kept coming home to the lion’s den, yearning for the fight against evil. Even in his devotion to keeping the Confessing Church alive, he could have gone along with the German Christian program and kept earning his salary, but he didn’t. Bonhoeffer still was not deterred by the ever-increasing bans against his public speaking, and later his public writing, and the dangers that accompanied being ever more present on the regime’s radar. He instead doubled down by seeking position within the office of Military Intelligence, becoming a double agent for the Resistance. Even at the end of it all, while sitting in prison, he still felt as if he didn’t do enough. For example, in attempting to keep the Confessing Church alive, he felt that they turned too much to attention inward for survival, and too much away from the world and its people who really needed them in a time of crisis.
This book also does a great job at drawing you in (and warning us) as to just how a totalitarian regime consolidates its power. It’s never quick and sudden as it seems to be depicted in the history books. It is slow and gradual as liberties are stripped away, little by little, until enough people have sold out to the regime, the populace is largely complacent to what has happened, and suddenly it is too late. I was surprised to see courts still functioning long into the Nazi regime, still attempting to uphold legitimate German law, but rendered more and more ineffective as time went on.
We are also afforded a unique look into how a totalitarian state can slowly infiltrate religious institutions, particularly without directly shutting it all down, as we might be inclined to suspect. The regime instead works behind the scenes, putting nefarious plans into motion, all giving the illusion that church and state remain separated. Yet the goal of the state is to replace devotion to religion with devotion to the state. It is truly quite eerie.
My one main gripe with this book is that the author barely mentions Bonhoeffer’s seminal work, The Cost of Discipleship, published in 1937 (see pages 206-7), barely relegating it to a passing reference. So much of Bonhoeffer’s theology that is discussed today comes from this work, not the least of which is the notion of “cheap grace”. Granted, dissecting this theology is probably a book unto itself, but I expected a bit more given how extensively Bonhoeffer’s other, lesser known works are cited throughout the book. Many people make the mistake of classifying Bonhoeffer’s theology as exclusively Lutheran, and it is in this work that make it clear just how influenced he is by Reformed theology. “Cheap grace” is very much transactional in nature, shifting the theological focus materially from the Lutheran “solas” back to oneself. It is a significant point that warrants further exploration.
Quite the opposite actually. One can only imagine how hard it is to live for truth when the societal pressure to conform to lies is so great. Looking back with 20/20 vision, we all like to think we would act similarly with regard to such a terrible regime. But we probably wouldn’t. When moments of decision arrive, we like to defer, hoping things will get better, or convincing ourselves that things aren’t really that bad yet – until it is and then it’s too late.
Bonhoeffer himself had many opportunities to jump to relative safety. He could have remained in the United States, or in England, or remained in many of the other locations abroad to which he traveled, even after the outbreak of war. However, he kept coming home to the lion’s den, yearning for the fight against evil. Even in his devotion to keeping the Confessing Church alive, he could have gone along with the German Christian program and kept earning his salary, but he didn’t. Bonhoeffer still was not deterred by the ever-increasing bans against his public speaking, and later his public writing, and the dangers that accompanied being ever more present on the regime’s radar. He instead doubled down by seeking position within the office of Military Intelligence, becoming a double agent for the Resistance. Even at the end of it all, while sitting in prison, he still felt as if he didn’t do enough. For example, in attempting to keep the Confessing Church alive, he felt that they turned too much to attention inward for survival, and too much away from the world and its people who really needed them in a time of crisis.
This book also does a great job at drawing you in (and warning us) as to just how a totalitarian regime consolidates its power. It’s never quick and sudden as it seems to be depicted in the history books. It is slow and gradual as liberties are stripped away, little by little, until enough people have sold out to the regime, the populace is largely complacent to what has happened, and suddenly it is too late. I was surprised to see courts still functioning long into the Nazi regime, still attempting to uphold legitimate German law, but rendered more and more ineffective as time went on.
We are also afforded a unique look into how a totalitarian state can slowly infiltrate religious institutions, particularly without directly shutting it all down, as we might be inclined to suspect. The regime instead works behind the scenes, putting nefarious plans into motion, all giving the illusion that church and state remain separated. Yet the goal of the state is to replace devotion to religion with devotion to the state. It is truly quite eerie.
My one main gripe with this book is that the author barely mentions Bonhoeffer’s seminal work, The Cost of Discipleship, published in 1937 (see pages 206-7), barely relegating it to a passing reference. So much of Bonhoeffer’s theology that is discussed today comes from this work, not the least of which is the notion of “cheap grace”. Granted, dissecting this theology is probably a book unto itself, but I expected a bit more given how extensively Bonhoeffer’s other, lesser known works are cited throughout the book. Many people make the mistake of classifying Bonhoeffer’s theology as exclusively Lutheran, and it is in this work that make it clear just how influenced he is by Reformed theology. “Cheap grace” is very much transactional in nature, shifting the theological focus materially from the Lutheran “solas” back to oneself. It is a significant point that warrants further exploration.
May 24, 2023
Ferdinand Schlingensiepen's meticulously researched and beautifully written biography, "Dietrich Bonhoeffer 1906-1945," offers an insightful and profound exploration into the life and legacy of one of the 20th century's most remarkable theologians. Schlingensiepen's masterful storytelling combined with his deep understanding of Bonhoeffer's thought make this biography a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of faith, ethics, and resistance.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is the way Schlingensiepen brings Dietrich Bonhoeffer to life. From the early years of his upbringing in a privileged German family to his profound experiences as a theologian, pastor, and resister during the tumultuous years of Nazi Germany, every aspect of Bonhoeffer's journey is meticulously researched and presented with care.
Schlingensiepen skillfully delves into the various influences that shaped Bonhoeffer's theological development, from his encounters with Karl Barth and other prominent theologians to his travels abroad, which broadened his perspective and deepened his commitment to social justice. Through these pages, readers are able to gain a profound understanding of Bonhoeffer's evolving theological positions, particularly his emphasis on the importance of faith in action and the necessity of ethical responsibility.
What truly sets this biography apart is Schlingensiepen's exploration of Bonhoeffer's active resistance against the Nazi regime. Through Bonhoeffer's involvement in the German Resistance, his clandestine activities, and his eventual imprisonment, Schlingensiepen unveils a man of immense courage and unwavering integrity. The author paints a vivid picture of a theologian who, despite the immense personal risks, remained true to his convictions and actively resisted the evils of his time.
Schlingensiepen's writing style is engaging, making this biography accessible to both scholars and general readers. He strikes a delicate balance between academic rigor and captivating storytelling, ensuring that the narrative never feels overwhelming or dry. The inclusion of personal letters, diary entries, and testimonies from those who knew Bonhoeffer adds an intimate and authentic touch, allowing readers to connect with the man behind the theological brilliance.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is the way Schlingensiepen brings Dietrich Bonhoeffer to life. From the early years of his upbringing in a privileged German family to his profound experiences as a theologian, pastor, and resister during the tumultuous years of Nazi Germany, every aspect of Bonhoeffer's journey is meticulously researched and presented with care.
Schlingensiepen skillfully delves into the various influences that shaped Bonhoeffer's theological development, from his encounters with Karl Barth and other prominent theologians to his travels abroad, which broadened his perspective and deepened his commitment to social justice. Through these pages, readers are able to gain a profound understanding of Bonhoeffer's evolving theological positions, particularly his emphasis on the importance of faith in action and the necessity of ethical responsibility.
What truly sets this biography apart is Schlingensiepen's exploration of Bonhoeffer's active resistance against the Nazi regime. Through Bonhoeffer's involvement in the German Resistance, his clandestine activities, and his eventual imprisonment, Schlingensiepen unveils a man of immense courage and unwavering integrity. The author paints a vivid picture of a theologian who, despite the immense personal risks, remained true to his convictions and actively resisted the evils of his time.
Schlingensiepen's writing style is engaging, making this biography accessible to both scholars and general readers. He strikes a delicate balance between academic rigor and captivating storytelling, ensuring that the narrative never feels overwhelming or dry. The inclusion of personal letters, diary entries, and testimonies from those who knew Bonhoeffer adds an intimate and authentic touch, allowing readers to connect with the man behind the theological brilliance.
June 3, 2017
While Schlingensiepen's biography is the most authoritative, scrupulous, and responsible of the recent Bonhoeffer biographies, we can still say there is not a fully satisfying account of Bonhoeffer's life and thought. Whereas Marsh seemed more interested in Bonhoeffer's fastidiousness, class presentation, and financial privilege (though not in an interesting critical way, but rather than a "what a character!" way), Schlingensiepen's book is for long passages not a biography of Bonhoeffer at all, but a rather workmanlike (but much more factual and reliable than Marsh's) account of the Confessing Church movement and the resistance. Schlingensiepen's prose is clunky and doesn't prioritize information or names sufficiently that the story is easy to follow. Even an attentive reader will regularly get lost and wonder what the significance of a related event was.
Schlingensiepen's book is stronger on Bonhoeffer's thought than Marsh (in which you can read the whole book without understanding even the slightest bit what Bonhoeffer wrote in his books), but it is still very weak. My own interests are far more in his thought and the meaning of his resistance, rather than in every small detail of the movements he participated in. All the same, Marsh's accounts of Bonhoeffer's childhood, travels, and especially his year in America are far more writerly, though Marsh is completely out of his depth/uninterested in German history or anything to do with Germany at all.
Some combination of the two approaches, with a third element that actually takes Bonhoeffer seriously as an intellectual, would be ideal. But the book doesn't yet exist. All the same, I'd far recommend this biography over Marsh. You may be bored on occasion, but at least the information can be counted on and it is written from the perspective of someone striving to understand Bonhoeffer in his own German context.
Schlingensiepen's book is stronger on Bonhoeffer's thought than Marsh (in which you can read the whole book without understanding even the slightest bit what Bonhoeffer wrote in his books), but it is still very weak. My own interests are far more in his thought and the meaning of his resistance, rather than in every small detail of the movements he participated in. All the same, Marsh's accounts of Bonhoeffer's childhood, travels, and especially his year in America are far more writerly, though Marsh is completely out of his depth/uninterested in German history or anything to do with Germany at all.
Some combination of the two approaches, with a third element that actually takes Bonhoeffer seriously as an intellectual, would be ideal. But the book doesn't yet exist. All the same, I'd far recommend this biography over Marsh. You may be bored on occasion, but at least the information can be counted on and it is written from the perspective of someone striving to understand Bonhoeffer in his own German context.
September 19, 2024
I cannot improve on the reviews already posted. This quote offers a rebuttal to the film coming out on Bonhoefer which reduces his life to spy, only secondarily as minister. I am not pushing a religious agenda here, but extracting quotes which reveal the source of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's courage as well as thoughts.
"We should not romanticize the 'second life' that Bonhoeffer was leading as a series of adventures out of a spy novel. For him, his activities on behalf of the conspiracy were a necessary evil, a contribution he had to make because there was no one else who could do it, and which had to be made to bring about peace and to stop the Naszis' crimes. The nervous tension with which he had to live, the fear that the plans for overthrow would be discovered, were part of the price that had to be paid, and Bonhoeffer was too intelligent to be without fear."
And: "... our faith really is not opium that keeps us content within an unjust world." A nod against Marixm and against complacency
Plus, revealing Bonhoeffer's thinking and source of courage: "Christ honours only a few of his folowers... with martyrdom."
I may read Metaxas's book on Bonhoeffer which, from reading the reveiws, promises a lesser in-depth look at Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life, thoughts, faith. Schlingensiepen wrote this biography in 2010, before the era of Donald Trump. I should like to read a biography in the future that gives a balanced lesson on any parallels between the Germany of Bonhoeffer and the America of pre-November, 2024.
"We should not romanticize the 'second life' that Bonhoeffer was leading as a series of adventures out of a spy novel. For him, his activities on behalf of the conspiracy were a necessary evil, a contribution he had to make because there was no one else who could do it, and which had to be made to bring about peace and to stop the Naszis' crimes. The nervous tension with which he had to live, the fear that the plans for overthrow would be discovered, were part of the price that had to be paid, and Bonhoeffer was too intelligent to be without fear."
And: "... our faith really is not opium that keeps us content within an unjust world." A nod against Marixm and against complacency
Plus, revealing Bonhoeffer's thinking and source of courage: "Christ honours only a few of his folowers... with martyrdom."
I may read Metaxas's book on Bonhoeffer which, from reading the reveiws, promises a lesser in-depth look at Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life, thoughts, faith. Schlingensiepen wrote this biography in 2010, before the era of Donald Trump. I should like to read a biography in the future that gives a balanced lesson on any parallels between the Germany of Bonhoeffer and the America of pre-November, 2024.
March 12, 2022
The best biography on Bonhoeffer I have read. I have read Metaxas book, but by far this is one is better. It gives more information on his theological roots it also shows there was more to Bonhoeffer than being involved in the attempt to murder Hitler. I recommend this book to all who want to understand the churches in Germany and the resistance.
September 11, 2022
A thorough biography that tells much of the history of the 3rd Reich from the view of a resistor inside it. I've read some of Bonhoeffer's writings and was concerned that this book might be a lot of tedious theology. There was some theology, but it was well packaged with the historical events that his life was caught up in. A long, but interesting read.
October 30, 2019
Impressive book, which between the lines and in the lines asked me over and over again this very intense question: what does it mean to be human ? The too short answer is: it means chosing, making choises!
June 3, 2018
Harder to read, but more accurate than Metaxis' book. The last part about B on his way to execution was heart wrenching.
March 15, 2020
A concise but powerful testimony of a person who in life and death taught the world what it means to be a Christian
June 3, 2020
Excellent, in depth biography of a truly amazing man.
November 19, 2020
This is a good book. Well written, photos throughout. Amazing person Bonhoeffer.
I read it for a class so I read only when assigned, but would be a nice read, not quick but not laborious.
I read it for a class so I read only when assigned, but would be a nice read, not quick but not laborious.
Read
December 16, 2024A well written book thus far, the author does a nice job of weaving letters, sermons, and other historical tidbits into a larger narrative. A bit slow at first, but provides an excellent background, and is unafraid to dive into the complex weeds of evolving international church structures coinciding with the rise of Hitler. About half-way done, looking forward to finishing over break.
July 10, 2019
This is a very complex biography with many weird and strange insights into Nazi Germany before and during World War II. I learned much about ecumenical movement and was theologically enlightened by Bonhoeffer's words in quotes from his colleagues. It is a great shame he died just before the end of the war but his spirit lives on in his excellent writings and thoughts in this book.
April 8, 2011
Compelling story that blends the tenor of the times in Hitler dominated Germany with the coming of age of the indomitable spirit of a truth seeking theologian. The author successfully sets the stage for a monumental struggle between might and right, while raising the question as to whether or not what is "right" in times of personal safety remains clear and absolute when the times go crazy and there is no such thing as safety. Many questions can be raised about DB's choice to propose to his 19 yr old sweetheart being so close to his own incarceration, but there is no doubt that his attachment to her is reflective of a deep commitment. The depiction of the desperation brought into play between the two separated lovers is both heart-wrenching, and, at the same time, encouraging to the romantic realists who believe in such things.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2012
Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life has forever changed the church and thinking surrounding "religion". His story is one that is captivating and he truly followed God's calling without fear or resignation. Dietrich's presence can be felt through reading about him, and thoughts of him linger even after you've put the book down. This will really challenge your beliefs or at the very least open your eyes to true theology.
October 22, 2021
This comprehensive and excellently written 21st-century biography from German author Ferdinand Schlingensiepen includes plenty of information and perspectives that aren't covered nearly as thoroughly in Eberhard Bethge's masterful biography. I find that the two books are quite complementary, and together provide a much richer and more accurate portrait of this complex man than you can get from the much shallower and simplistic Eric Metaxas biography.
Read
May 16, 2011This is a wonderful introduction to an important voice in 20th century theology. While it in no way obviates the need to read the man himself, there are a sufficient number of citations from his work and letters to give a newcomer such as myself a taste of Bonhoeffer's theology. The book's particular excellence lies in providing the historical and biographical background to Bonhoeffer's thought.
July 15, 2015
Manageable size for me to read and the reading went along well. It is no secret this is largely based on Bethge's biography, but there were enough new revelations to keep my interest. The family tree was helpful and the timeline included was something not all biographies on Bonhoeffer have. I had to send away to get this; it was worth the trouble and the wait.
November 30, 2023
Extremely detailed and very thorough. I'm not sure if it was the translation or just the style of the writer, but it was felt cold. It read like a history book. Which isn't necessarily bad if that's your goal. Either way, an extremely useful resource for understanding the historical context of Bonhoeffer's life.
November 26, 2011
It raises a lot of good theological issues and questions for us today
February 25, 2015
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A very good biography…it covers the man, his times and what he accomplished…and it reads "well"…these are what one expects a very good biography to do…
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A very good biography…it covers the man, his times and what he accomplished…and it reads "well"…these are what one expects a very good biography to do…
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews