When a Nation Forgets God: 7 Lessons We Must Learn from Nazi Germany

by Erwin W. Lutzer

This excellent book is so important. It clearly and powerfully explains what the parallels are between Germany's fall from grace and the beginning of our own fall. - Eric Metaxas, author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy

In When A Nation Forgets God, Erwin Lutzer studies seven similarities between Nazi Germany and America today—some of them chilling—and cautions us to respond accordingly. Engaging, well-researched, and easy to understand, Lutzer’s writing is that of a realist, one alarmed but unafraid. Amidst describing the messes of our nation’s government, economy, legal pitfalls, propaganda, and more, Lutzer points to the God who always has a plan.

At the beginning of the twentieth Century, Nazi Germany didn’t look like a country on the brink of world-shaking terrors. It looked like America today. When a Nation Forgets God uses history to warn us of a future that none of us wants to see. It urges us to be ordinary heroes who speak up and take action.

Genres: History, Christian, Nonfiction, Politics, Religion, Theology, Christian Living

148 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2009

About the author

Erwin W. Lutzer is senior pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago. A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and Loyola University, he is the author of numerous books, including the Gold Medallion Award winner "Hitler's Cross" and the best seller "One Minute After You Die". He is also a teacher on radio programs heard on more than 700 stations throughout the United States and the world, including "Songs in the Night," "The Moody Church Hour," and the daily feature "Running to Win." He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area and have three married children and seven grandchildren.

Reviews

[dvd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review can also be found on www.thispilgrimland.com

THIS BOOK IS GREAT!!!! That should sum up my thoughts on this new publication from Erwin W. Lutzer, senior pastor of Moody Church, and Moody Publishers. Three sittings and 48 hours later I have now finished this stroke of genius. Lutzer writes, "I believe it is disingenuous when political opponents here in the United States call those who disagree with them "Nazis" or "Hitler." That alone told me this book was going to be different from the normal conservative speak that comes from so many in our churches today and that this book would not contain the finger-pointing and name-calling that I have quite frankly grown sick of. No, in a very tactful and succinct way, Lutzer in 141 pages points the reader to the facts, documents, and Christian writers who lived through the Nazi regime and uses their experiences and warning to parallel some of what many Americans see today as the abandonment of our countries inhibited history. In chapters named such as "When God is Separated from Government, Judgment Follows," "It's Always the Economy," & "That Which is Legal Might Also be Evil," Lutzer uses historical evidence to remind us that ideological and philosophical takeover is not done over night, but is rather a systematic and expertly crafted formula. This leads to his last chapter. As I stated above, what drew me into this book was Lutzer's refusal to point fingers at our contemporaries. That remained so until the final chapter. In the final chapter, Lutzer removes his gloves and begins throwing punches. Not at Obama or Pelosi. Not at Bush or Glenn Beck. Not at CNN or Fox News. No,Lutzer, and rightfully so, comes directly into the face of today's Christian. Building off of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's famous "Confess, Confess, Confess" radio address in Nazi Germany, Lutzer jumps into the face of today's Christian. He reminds us that the only way Nazi Germany was allowed to take place was because the Christians, primarily the pastors and preachers, in that area decided to bow to the Reich and hide the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Pointing out the compromise that is already taking place today in the church, Lutzer unabashedly calls these wolves in sheep's clothing to repentance. I personally pledged to myself to read this last chapter everyday for the next month because therein lies, outside of scripture, one of the most powerful sentences I have read in some time. Lutzer writes: "In an effort to be 'relevant,' we now face the temptation of being diverted from our mission and becoming involved doing what is good while bypassing what is best." Stop reading, back up, and read that sentence again. I personally read it three times to myself and three times to my wife I was so taken by those words. Lutzer's final plea is to return to the cross. In our teaching, preaching, praying, and living, return to the cross. He asks that we stop veiling the cross in nationalism (enough with the founding fathers argument), party lines, and protest. All of these things avert from our true message we are called to teach: Christ crucified. Lutzer points out that our railing and arguing all accomplish the goal of making the Christian seen, but that is not our goal. Our goal is to make the cross, not the Christian seen. Lutzer avoids making any doctrinal assertions in this book and any believer in the true gospel should be able to get on board with the message in this boo

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In the evangelical community, psychology is substituted for theology and cheap grace has replaced what Bonhoeffer described as 'costly grace.' In short, we have lost our intellectual and spiritual center and replaced it with consumerism, self-help, and the quest for personal advantage. We are self-absorbed rather than God-absorbed. And we can see the results" (p. 141)

Lutzer does a fantastic job of succinctly describing the climate in Germany in the 1930s/1940s, showing how Hitler was able to systematically replace Christianity with worship of the Nazi party and their disgusting ideology. It is a far too regular occurrence to see actions by both major political parties in America or actions of other world leaders compared to Nazis. This book not only acknowledges this truth, but draws legitimate parallels between history and the current state of the country/world.

This was originally published in 2010, and it's shocking to see how much further America has moved away from God and into depravity in 13 short years. Several points Lutzer made about what to expect in the future are happening before our very eyes. As Christians, we need to be sharing Jesus more than ever and living for Him no matter the cost. With everything happening in society, watered-down "Christianity" is becoming more popular and wide-spread; some of the most popular "Christian" books are nothing more than self-help nonsense that don't point to the cross, Christ or the gospel. I think this is a book that is so necessary for the current landscape of the country, and one that will encourage readers to cling to a true faith in the God of the Bible.

"And so it was that secularism was imposed on the German people. The role of the church was minimized by privatizing faith and instituting laws about what could or could not be said from a pulpit." (p. 28)

[Michael K.]

This book was a great overview of the NAZI Party of Germany and how it used the Christian faith in order to conquer the people and get them to follow. The propaganda used to take over the church and subdue the ministers, pastors, and priests (most of which desired not to make waves.) This book, at very least, teaches us to stand up for what is right and just...not for what is comfortable to us. We must stand up to tyranny when it goes against what the Bible dictates, after all we were forewarned of such endings in our lives...we must be willing to stand united against evil in all its forms - including when it is our governing authorities!

[Shiloah · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is much depth and meat in this work. I read this with a small group of women and we had such great discussions. Lutzer articulately lays out the well-developed plan the Nazi's followed and its eerie parallels to our country today. Most of my book is highlighted and filled with notes. This is one I will revisit and do highly recommend.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the cover of this book does not do it justice. Some might think it more about propaganda. The book is a quick read that brings history into our present world. I would suggest anyone reading this book that would have any preconceived ideals put to the side and to let history validate what Erwin is writing. History has proven that time and time again, what happens when a nation, a tribe, a people forget God. Dahlem prophetically declared God's purpose in the tials that faced the German church...It is now springtime for the hopeful and expectant christian church...it is testing time and God is givin Satan a free hand, so he may shake us up and so that it may be seen what manner of men we are! ...commonly known a the tare and wheat! I like how Erwin points out that we will not win these battles simply with politics or by argument, but what we will win as christians is by the Cross. We have lost our intellectual and spiritual center and replaced with with consumerism, self-help, and the quest for personal advantage. We are self-absorbed rather than God-absorbed. A few substitutes for the message of the Gospel. God wants you to experience physical healing...God wants you to be healthy and wealthy too...Jesus will help you be a better businessman, parents, etc...God wants you to cheerily face life by knowing "God is for you" whether you have repented of sin or not...The message of Christianity is community - not the cross...This message did not help the German church when the Nazi's came into power and even before they came into power. If we think this will not happen in the US, think again. It will begin by how and what are children are taught, Hate Crimes being implemented to protect a few when laws are already in place..nationalism of churchs, banks, business, healthcare. In Erwins book he points out why our culture and the church is changing. In the book Hitler wrote Mein Kampff, the stradgey was with the youth, the emotion and the crowd and media. Christians are being labeled that they are not tolerant, bigots, etc and who wants to be a christian after being labeled in such a way. Some may think what is wrong with the Government taking care of you. Those who live in socialistic state become slaves of government regulations and government laws. Your laws become your God. The moral landscape of a country is strongly influenced by its laws. Think of the implications! What it comes down to without a belief in God, nothing is unconditionally wrong. I am talking about the God of the Old and New Testament! I would strongly suggest christians to read this book. It help you to look at the cross differently!

[Jason McIntire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is like a peaceful "manual of arms" for Christians who would be the Bonhoeffers and Niemollers of our present anti-Christ generation. It's quick to read and easy to understand, and manages to confront current realities without seeming alarmist or overly political. I recommend it to all Christians.

[Laila · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book from this writer and I'm impressed by his prose, writing style and his passion for his chosen subject (or is it genre?!)
I can't remember the how and why did I decide to order this book from the library and as I read it it wasn't what I expected. It's a sobering read and rather timely in my personal life.
The book basically reminding Christians about our duty as Christians to bear witness of Jesus and the message of the Cross to the world even if by doing so we'll be ridiculed, persecuted and etc especially when our belief system as Christian is against the cultural current of the day. Suffering in the name of Jesus is not a new phenomenon and shouldn't shock us the least because the early Christians before us suffered just as much if not more. In other words: grow a pair.

I look at what's happenings in the once upon a time known as a Christian nations around the world but had abandoned God since. What a sorry state of affairs and if the troubles that plaguing these countries have any indications, clearly humanistic values and/or secularism that they invented to replaced God's values are found wanting. And what now? Are they going to humble themselves and return to God's way of doing things or keep doing what they are doing, knowing the answer will be the same?

I found one typo: (pg. 51 - health not heath care)

[Reagan Faith Waggoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Altogether synopsis – 10/10 and a new favorite for the shelf. As I remarked to Mom earlier today, my favorite book type is a short, potent one written by an expert. I know I stole that quotation from someone, but I cannot quite remember who…

Anyhow, I highly recommend this book. It is a fantastic analysis of the psychological and mental factors that preceded the Nazi Germany we all know and despise: Lutzer masterfully weaves in the major takeaways for us as 21st century Americans. Essentially, he emphasizes that the conditions necessary for the rise of 20th century Nazi Germany are worthy of consideration and identification in our society today.

Needless to say, I scribbled down a TON of notes while reading this book. I certainly will read this book again, and I have far more thoughts than I could ever hope to put on paper. A few are enumerated below.

First off, purpose of the book and a general overview in the author’s own words -
“When we think of Nazi Germany, we immediately think of the Holocaust, the brutal murder of millions of Jews and other ‘undesirables.’ But we need to realize that there were circumstances and widely accepted ideas that enabled the population to become a part of an evil that was greater than that of any individual. The gas ovens were the end result of certain political and religious trends that made the horrors possible.”

Lutzer skillfully introduced this broad topic with a discussion of the separation of church and state, immediately identifying Hitler as a manipulative mob master (ok, he didn’t say that, but I did.)

“You confine yourself to the church. I’ll take care of the German people.” -Hitler
Yeah, barf. Yet the majority of German Christians and pastors took the bait, allowing Hitler to completely transform the church and pervert Christianity into a secular, horrifying force. The role of the church can never be confined to a purely religious sphere, at least not with any level of efficacy or Christ-like initiative. The Gospel necessitates an overflow into the rest of our lives, and when we know the Lord, that overflow is inevitable. Anyway, enough about that: the book also utilizes one of my favorite quotes, which definitely was on my mind as I read:

“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most impressive… Those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience…. In reality, however, we must face the possibility of bad rulers armed with a Humanitarian theory of punishment… We know that one school of psychology already regards religion as a neurosis. When this particular neurosis becomes inconvenient to government, what is to hinder government from proceeding to “cure” it? Such a ”cure” will, of course, be compulsory; but under the Humanitarian theory it will not be called by the shocking name of Persecution.” (C.S. Lewis)

Hitler began by “supporting” the churches; as a self-identified former Catholic, he insisted he had no issues with the church, as long as it did not conflict with the state. He even encouraged Germans with their “freedom” to join the church… a state church, of course, which proved to be an issue. With time, the separation included the removal of crosses, replacement of church duties, and a focus on the state rather than Christ. Marriages, holidays, and other formal ceremonies traditionally performed by the church were soon cast aside in favor of secular performances. Hitler continued to pervert the name of God for personal gain. “Christianity” was no longer Christianity in anything but name, and few Christians stood in the way. Most Germans, however, turned a blind eye: this man offered economic security and a new Germany – what could be wrong?

Some, like Boenhoffer, challenged Hitler’s Germany and were promptly shipped off to concentration camps. Most accepted the gradual fade and floated in a state of denial, turning a blind eye to the horrors. Simply, Hitler’s law became the moral ruling.

Today, we gasp in horror at the insensitivity and cowardice of the German populace, but Lutzer provides context for the state of post-WWI Nazi Germany. Yes, Hitler faced opposition in the midst of his initial violent overthrow attempts… yes, he was convicted for treason. Yet just a few years later, Hitler took advantage of dire circumstances. Leaders make the most of terrible situations; this was the case for Hitler, even though his style of leadership was far from morally admirable.

Even so, he rose to power graciously, championing a socialist economic policy that provided security for the German people. Followers kissed goodbye to hyperinflation and severe economic turmoil, but in the process they departed from their individual freedoms as well. Lutzer establishes the devastating conditions of Germany and demonstrates WHY Hitler was welcomed so freely by the public. He promised change and security. Bread or freedom? The German people chose bread. If we are being honest – 21st century America would and is making the same decision.

Hitler revived a collapsed economy in four years, instituted national healthcare, provided vacations, established training schools, curtailed domestic crime, improved industrial infrastructure, and returned identity to Germany. Suddenly, Germans felt they had something to fight for.

“His report card is filled with such astounding achievements that many Christians saw him as an answer to their prayers.”

Germans parted with their “Bill of Rights” freedoms, as we would refer to them in the United States, for safety and security. The demonstration and explanation of this manipulative fade is well-covered throughout the book, and I cannot hope to do it justice here.

“I believe that Alexis de Tocqueville was right when he predicted that democracy would not survive if people realized that they could vote themselves money.” -Lutzer (49)

Profound – to say the least.

“We all declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean the same thing.” -Abraham Lincoln
Similar quotation comes to mind by Bastiat. Something along the lines of – Mr. de Lamartine once wrote to me thusly: "Your doctrine is only the half of my program. You have stopped at liberty; I go on to fraternity." I answered him: "The second half of your program will destroy the first."

Simply, the people often forfeit the right to economic opportunity for the fictitious “right” of economic equality. This was the case in Nazi Germany, and it is the case today.

“Show me your laws and I will show you your God.” -Lutzer
Simply and profoundly written – Again, I cannot hope to do justice to the analogies and context provided in the book, but his emphasis on morality and virtue is both admirable and well-considered.

Education, law, marriage, and so many other spheres have been profoundly influenced by growing secular movements toward moral relativism. Of course, this is nothing unique in a historical context, but we must be mindful of this increasing shift and recognize how evolutionary thought and liberal theology is influencing our society today.
As Christians, we must reject the fundamental ideal of Hitler’s Nazi Germany – this separation of church and state, a declaration that “you can believe whatever you like as long as you keep it between yourself and whatever God you believe in.” No, this faith is a call to live out loud – to boldly proclaim and live from our convictions. This requires the belief that there is one set of morals and a bold dismissal of moral relativism. Does society like this? Of course not. Modern, secular society is outraged at the notion that we could reject homosexuality or abortion or pornography or premarital sex, along with a laundry list of other things.

Yet we do – not out of a disrespect for people, but a declaration that it is not consistent with the design of mankind. We are made to flourish, to live in accordance with God’s will for our lives. His will is true, good, and beautiful; his will does not change with the times.

Yet, like in Nazi Germany, society is often all too eager to trade freedom for security in difficult times. Like every other human who has ever walked this earth, we must decide where we draw the line. To live out loud is to allow what matters most to dominate our lives, even when it costs us security. This book provides incredible examples of men and women who did just that, contrasting this firm resolve of the minority against the wavering of the majority.

“Our universities will promote freedom for pornographers, haters of America, and homosexual activists. But don’t expect them to extend such freedom to Christian students who reveal their convictions, or speakers who would defend family values or a Christian view of the world.”

Lutzer also profoundly discusses the power of the government in regards to legal charges – with time, hate speech shifts in meaning to include anything conflicting with the woke ideology of the state and treason is any obstacle to the state. It happened in communist Russia, Nazi Germany, and countless other societies, and it will inevitably occur again.

Hence the author’s call for a restoration of family values and grassroots courage. The author firmly supports homeschooling and out-of-the-box paths, emphasizing the power and necessity of the family unit to a free society. The foundation of a free society is in its youth, and there is a reason Hitler targeted the youth, brainwashing them into cruelty.

All in all, this book is a profound exploration of Hitler’s Germany and the necessity of Christian principles and ideals in America today. It is our duty as individuals to stand up for what is right and refuse to succumb to the woke ideologies of modern-day America. Our struggle is nothing new – it is the same struggle our fellow “cloud of witnesses” has fought for thousands of years. So, may we stand up in unity, in courage, and declare the promises and identities we are made to live from, knowing that we have the Lord and nothing – not Darwin, not Hitler, not Marx, not Lenin, not Stalin, the Supreme Court, or the law of the United States – can stand in our way.

[Dave Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was lent to me by a friend. Having read several books on the World War II era and being familiar with Erwin Lutzer’s works, I gave this book a shot. What I found was red meat for social and religious conservatives with parallels to the societal engineering by Hitler. The book is a warning that what happened to Germany through its devotion to Hitler/National Socialism could happen – and is happening – to the United States.

I don’t disagree with these assertions but I am a little underwhelmed. Perhaps this is because I think these premises are brought home much more powerfully by Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy Metaxas brilliant biography on Bonhoeffer and Shirer’s comprehensive Rise and Fall of the Third Reich The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany. (I have reviewed both of these books.) I also thought that Lutzer focused too much on the liability side of the balance sheet. It is not enough to decry the dark efforts of the secular humanist social engineers. More examples of the benefits of exercising biblical principles would positively promote societal wellness.

Another big issue I had was the lack of a bibliography. The best part of When a Nation Forgets is the last two chapters. In the “Ordinary Heroes Can Make a Difference” chapter (6), we are presented with excellent bio-capsulations of modern-era heroes of the faith; brave men and women who stood firm for the cause of Christ. A couple of these names were not familiar to me and it would’ve been nice to have a reference for more information on their lives and ministries. None of these vignettes even had a footnote reference. Only one had a contextual reference. We’re reduced to using a search engine for more info. Lutzer’s last chapter is a rallying cry against the spiritual decline of America. I think references to such biographies would’ve fleshed this out better.

There is some good stuff here, though. Here are a few points that I think sum up the theme of the book pretty well:

• The best argument for Christianity is Christians: their joy, their certainty, their completeness. But the strongest argument against Christians is also Christians – when they are somber and joyless, when they are self-righteous and smug … (Sheldon Vanauken quote).

• It is better to fail in a cause that will ultimately succeed that to succeed in a cause that will ultimately fail. (Peter Marshall)

• Important though the right leaders may be, we must always remember that God is neither Republican nor Democrat. When the cross is wrapped in the flag of a political party, it is always distorted or diminished.

[Jessie Gussman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! There is SOOO MUCH in this little book that aligns with today. Take this: Yes, it is possible for ordinary people to commit atrocities they never thought possible when they are swept up into a cultural current where everyone is both expected to fall in line and be rewarded for it. In such a climate, anyone who swims against the stream is demonized by misrepresentations, false evidence and ridicule."

I found this book timely and spot on, especially in conjunction with "The Decline and Fall of California" which I read at the same time.

[Raven Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a professing Christian this book is a must. It is terrifying & extremely convicting. READ.THIS.BOOK!

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The gas chambers of Auschwitz were the ultimate consequence of the theory than man is nothing but the product of heredity and environment—or as the Nazis likes to say, ‘Of blood and soil.’ … prepared not in some ministry or other in Berlin, but rather at the desks and lecture halls of nihilistic scientists and philosophers.” Viktor Frankl, holocaust survivor

A distinctly Christian work. Lutzer, who has written dozens of books about Nazism and American popular culture, explores how Adolph Hitler effectively neutralized Germany’s Christians in his quest to create his Nazi paradise. Lutzer explores seven areas—such as the church itself, education, propaganda, the economy, etc.—where Hitler’s plans eviscerated opposition, leading of course to the infamous death camps.

“You said that ‘I will take care of the German people.’ But we too, as Christians and churchmen, have a responsibility toward the German people. That was given to us by God, and neither you nor anyone else in this world has the power to take it from us.” Martin Niemöller to Adolph Hitler, January 25, 1934.

Well-researched. Valuable background on both Hitler’s thinking and the Confessing Church which opposed him.

“I don’t expect that America will ever gas millions of people because they belong to the wrong race, but the same values that destroyed Germany are being taught in many of our centers of learning today. Forces of secularism lead inevitably to a totalitarian state to which everyone is expected to submit.” Erwin W. Lutzer

This is an unapologetically polemic work. Lutzer draws many parallels to modern America.

“It is becoming increasingly clear that what we are going to get is a big, popular national church whose nature cannot be reconciled with Christianity, and we must be prepared to enter upon entirely new paths which we shall have to tread.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer

“When God calls a man, he bids him come and die. Suffering is not an interruption, but our calling.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer

[Lina · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the premise of this book interesting and bought it eager to learn more about the "Nazification of Churches" and Christianity, though after reading I found myself disappointed.

I'll admit that I am not Christian, though it allowed me to look at Nazi Germany through a different lens. Some of the passages mentioned along with the critique of 2010's America could not be more relevant even ten years on.

In terms of History, it is similar to that of a History Textbook. Which is why felt the book suffered.

There is a chapter concerning the so called 'Homosexual Agenda' which is distasteful in my opinion, he attempts to bring a teacher sacked for saying prayers during lunchtime on the same level as imprisonment and torture of Political Rivals. The book suffers when pointing out the parallels between modern day America and Nazi Germany, while some chapters are strong, others fall flat and fail to provide an objective yet critical view.

There is the occasional note of "Please keep reading" which is unneeded and amateur.

If this book happens to on sale at your bookstore, and you have nothing else to do, go ahead and get yourself a copy. Otherwise, I wouldn't recommend.

[TheQueensBooksII · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read that shed light on what my father must have been going through growing up in 1930s - 40s Berlin. This is a short book, but packed with what you'd find in much larger tomes. It cuts to the chase. My father must have attended the indoctrination camps ("schools"). His family must have attended the "national" churches. Only the very bravest stood up to the socialist encroachment. Now that clamps are being tightened right here in the US, it gives me pause to consider what role I will play if (when) similar things happen—indeed, are happening.

Lutzer underscores that the connection between believing in God (having religion or faith, if you will), and remaining a virtuous nation is unmistakeable. And given my personal life journey and what I've seen around me, I agree.

[Karl Goodwin · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book started out well and warned that some comparison to Nazi Germany was good, but it could easily go too far. It went too far really quickly though. Spinning doom and gloom about how the Supreme Court could start legislating new laws or how Christian Radio might get kicked off the air. It was also very much written by a conservative person talking about the 'homosexual' agenda and how the ACLU is against everything Christian. At the end it talks about how we should be focused on God's plan and working for him and not Republican or Democrat, yet the author obviously didn't follow his own advice. The things that Hitler did in Nazi Germany are not to be forgotten and similarities need to be identified, but demonizing those with different points of view doesn't help people work together.

[Jeff Colston · Rating 4 out of 5]

“There is a danger that we become so overburdened with social/political agendas that our message is lost amid our many cultural skirmishes. The church has always faced the temptation to modify the Gospel or make it secondary to a given political, philosophical, or cultural agenda. When this happens, Christians have exposure to the culture, but the cross does not.”

I thought this was helpful. I feel like the title makes it sound more extreme than it actually is. The author consistently makes the point that comparing America to Nazi Germany is a stretch.

My takeaway: I want to be mindful of my changing culture and be willing to suffer for the Gospel at all costs.

[Daryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a powerful little book. It really exposes how Christians buy into lies and deception for the sake of peace and temporal relief from problems. An important lesson is being taught here that many do not want to learn or even read about because they refuse to see the similarities. They say we are not like the Nazis but do not want to see the signs of where we are headed for the sake of our own comfort and health. We are, truly, so often blinded by the cares of this world.

[Mindee Berkman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really timely read. This book was published 10 years ago. I don’t think the author could have fathomed how quickly his words of warning would begin to come true.

[Brett · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was scary how accurate it was about the future

[Christopher Desruisseau · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good Study on what happened in Germany before WW2 and how it parallels with what is happening in America today. A very timely read

[C.H. Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book whose time has come. Lutzer combines painstaking research detailing Germany’s tortured path to National Socialism in the 1920s and 1930s with biblical insight, producing a clarion call for faithfulness addressed to today’s church. In each chapter he traces the cynical machinations of Hitler’s Nazis and the failure of Germany’s Christians, and then brings the lessons learned to bear on modern-day American Christianity.

The first major lesson has to do with what happens when God is separated from government. When a nation scrubs clean from its market places, courthouses, and legislatures any references to God and His rule, judgment inevitably follows. It might not be the immediate judgment of some cataclysm, it may be condemnation to a slow, inevitable decay but nonetheless, divine wrath follows.

The second lesson concerns the economy. Lutzer shows that when economic disaster strikes, whether through manipulation or unintended events, a nation will trade freedom for economic safety even if it means accepting totalitarian control. Germany’s roller-coaster economy in the 20s and 30s left the people ready for a dictator.

The third major lesson reveals the consequence of eliminating God as the ultimate source of law. Lutzer pursues the telling adage, show me your source of law, and I’ll show you your gods. He demonstrates that when the principle of law is unhooked from belief in a divine lawgiver who sits in ultimate judgment over mankind, all hell breaks loose in a society.

Fourth, the power of propaganda is exposed. Lutzer explains Hitler’s penchant for big lies as opposed to small ones, and shows how a society can be conditioned to accept the most outrageous propositions as truth. Through media, through setting the terms and tone of a national conversation, through the promise of acceptance and approbation combined with the threat of mockery and scorn (and worse), the German people were transformed from a normal nation into one that perpetrated horrors unspeakable.

Compulsory public education was another major channel through which the primacy of National Socialism was inculcated into German society. The author exposes the methods (and goals) of secular “Values Clarification” and demonstrates that this methodology is the dominant feature in American public education. He who controls the education of children controls the future.

In chapter six Lutzer lays down a positive lesson: people make a difference. He speculates that history might have been different had German pastors and Christians stood firm against the secular darkness of that era. The writer shares stories of Christians who have made a difference in their time, even at great cost to themselves, and he calls on the church to once again be such a witness.

Finally Lutzer challenges the modern church to exalt the cross in the gathering darkness. The gospel message must not be confused, diluted, or corrupted with a false message of prosperity, psychological comfort, or even good causes. We must preach the cross and live the suffering to which it calls us, keeping our eyes upon Christ.

If I have any criticism of this book, it is a mystifying failure of Lutzer in chapter three. The chapter is an exposition of its title: “That which is legal might also be evil.” After tracing the changes in law in Nazi Germany that made possible its pograms, Lutzer looks at America and finds two flaws that have weakened the impact of Christianity on American law. He cites the onset of evolution and theological liberalism and makes a good case for the destructive tendencies of both. But nowhere does he even mention American Christianity’s acceptance of slavery in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. There was probably no greater damage done to the influence and credibility of the church than its failure to stand against the scourge of human slavery. Like Nazi Germany, many of the arguments made in favor of slavery centered around the question of whether African blacks were subhuman. As I was reading this chapter I was expecting Lutzer to say something, anything, by way of critique on this subject. If he said it, I missed it. It is a crucial failure that ought to be corrected in the next edition.

That criticism notwithstanding, this book combines three great qualities: first, it is firmly anchored with excellent research in a faithful representation of both history and the modern day. Second, the insights it contains are profound and thoroughly biblical. Third, it is brief and accessible. Every person concerned about the direction of our nation, and our churches, should read this outstanding book.

[Zachary McIntire · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the seventy-odd years since the end of World War II, Hitler and the Nazi party have become a sort of figure of speech for the very worst sort of evil imaginable. The practice of comparing ideas and people to the Nazis is so common online, that something called Godwin's Law was invented to describe its prevalence.

But it is precisely because this sort of comparison is often thrown about so carelessly that this book by Erwin Lutzer stands out. Far from being an overblown, fear-mongering attempt to forecast the imminent rise of an American Fourth Reich, this well-researched work brings out genuine points of similarity between 1930's Germany and 21st-century America, which should cause thoughtful readers to take serious notice. As a friend of mine recently observed, perhaps the only thing standing between America, and a similar path to that followed by Germany, is our comparative economic prosperity.

My favorite part of the book, however, is Lutzer's challenge to the church to realize that persecution is *normal* for the followers of Christ. Once we come to terms with the fact that politics will not save us, maybe we'll get back to the reason we're here: to proclaim the real message of salvation in Jesus Christ with every breath we're given.

[Jalen · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I appreciated what Lutzer was going for and does at times make very solid arguments toward the parallels of Nazi Germany and how America could find itself in that same position. He misses the mark more often than not.

There are times where he brings but the LGBTQ+ community (homosexuals to be specific) where he tries painting them in sort of disingenuous way. He pegs them with all these assumptions and leads us to believe that they (along with Muslims) are the sole reason for American cultures stem towards secularism/humanism and that if left unchecked will help lead to Christianity being completely wiped from every part of our lives.

I would be worried to recommend this book to anyone as I just don’t think he supports his arguments well and the way he presents information (that I would argue doesn’t even have anything to do with the topic at hand) comes off fear monger-ie and disingenuous. While he speaks on how God is not Republican or Democrat he speaks in manner that very much leans toward aggressive conservatism and just leaves me asking questions more about his intentions.

Overall 2/5 on the bits he does speak on regarding what we can learn from Nazi Germany but -3 stars for pinning a lot of Americas cultural problems on select people groups.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read book. I probably wouldn't have picked it up on my own as it is short and I have read longer books along the same line. However, a friend recommended it to me and anything this friend recommends is worth reading. She was right again. This book is only 141 pages but had more crucial information in it than books double its' size. Published a few years back some of the things the author speaks of as in the future have already happened. We are living in a time when secular socialism is taking over rapidly. We need to understand it and see some things for what they really are.
I would have liked to see this book in a longer version as well - kind of like what Alcorn did with his If God is Good book - a long version for those who wanted depth and a shorter version for the readers that wanted concise, main points.
I will look for more books by this author as his writing is good, his sources listed and accurate and his thoughts theologically sound.

[Christopher · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was an abhorrent little book that seems to have been written to scare Christians into believing they are or will be persecuted by the evil gays. The argument equates ACT-UP with the Nazi Propaganda machine. The argument propels the idea that the more we are confronted with immortality, the more accepted it. I have issue with the premise that homosexuality is immoral so the book is a piece of trash. It was left at a restaurant and I read it in just under an hour. Having read about Hitler and just being well educated about the rise of the Nazi party and the eradication of the Church in the Third Reich , many of the short chapters are skimmable. Laughably, the 7 lessons we need to learn from the Nazis all seem to be directed at Christians and their need to stay vigilant in a time when all their practices and beliefs are being targeted. Total bullshit propagandising.

[Clara Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a remarkable little book, only 141 pages long, but it is full of historical facts and Bibical lessons for todays citizen. Lutzer says that "if every pastor would have been a Bonhoeffer or a Niemollor, Hitler would not have accomplished his agenda." "We need to enlist people who know what they believe, why they believe it, how to live out their convictions in diverse situations." "Without a belief in God, nothing is unconditionally wrong." " A court can make abortion legal, but it cannot make it moral." "Show me your laws, I will show you your God." This is a book that I will reread at a later time. It is just that good. It was well written and all of his primises were supported with historical facts. An excellent book written just for our times.

[Clued-in With A Book (Elvina Ulrich) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This little gem is my first book from Lutzer and what an eye-opening and thought provoking read! Lutzer draws seven similarities between the rise and fall of Nazi Germany and present day United States - political, economic, social, etc - and the historical examples we can learn by applying biblical principles. When our freedom is curtailed, how do we stand firm and honor God? When passing of new laws compromise our morality, how do we response as believers? Although this book was written in 2010, but the insights it provide are absolutely relevant, timely and chillingly accurate. This insightful and encouraging book is a must read for every new and seasoned believers!

[Başar · Rating 1 out of 5]

If you are a humanist, stay away from this book. So out of touch with our times, this books is a blatant manifesto of bigotry, racism, xenophobia and much more. I am really sad that I've read this book. I thought this book may shed some light on the psychology of Nazism only to realize that the same frame of mind continues to live today in people like Lutzer. I am also glad that I read this book as my review, hopefully, will serve as a clear warning to the unwary and keep them away from this awful book.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book both frightening and encouraging. The parallels between Nazi Germany and present day America are undeniable, but the author does not leave the reader hopeless. He reminds the reader that our hope is NOT in government or laws, but in the cross of Christ. Only there will mankind find a firm foundation. The question becomes will we stand strong when our time comes or will we fold to social pressure, as those in Germany did?

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely thought provoking. I found myself highlighting portions of it to remember the key points. If you're a liberal, this book will make your blood boil (before you even have a chance to truly think about what the author is saying, but that's what liberals do). Our nation, founded on Christian values, has been eroded so completely that this book shows what our ultimate fate could be if we don't do something, and quick.