Study with us | Bonhoeffer’s Theology in Historical Context

When Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote of “costly grace”, he knew that his convictions could cost him his life. Executed by the Nazis just weeks before the end of World War II, his theology engages with a world in crisis – and it does this in profound and controversial ways that continue to challenge. In this unit, you will engage with Bonhoeffer’s world through his writings from early philosophical theology to radical letters and papers from prison. You will explore the dynamic interaction between theological ideas and the changing religious, social and political context of Hitler’s Third Reich. Finally, you will consider the enduring issues raised by Bonhoeffer’s life and work: especially, individual Christians and the embodiment of community and reconciliation, and the relationship between worldly faith and a transcendent God.

Rev. Dr Keith Clements is an internationally renowned interpreter of Bonhoeffer, former General Secretary of the Conference of European Churches, Switzerland, and Baptist minister and lecturer, UK. His latest book is Appointments with Bonhoeffer: Personal Faith and Public Responsibility in a Fragmenting World (2022).

Pilgrim Theological College

Pilgrim Theological College is a college of the University of Divinity from the Uniting Church tradition, based in Melbourne, Victoria.