In April 1933 Hitler's "Aryan Paragraph," a law banning Jews from working within the German government, went into effect. Since German churches relied on support from the state, most complied by dismissing their pastors and any employees of Jewish decent. Deitrich Bonhoeffer's faith, however, compelled him to defy Hitler and speak out against him. Within days of the implementation of the new law, Bonhoeffer published an essay titled "The Church and the Jewish Question" that asserted Christians have an obligation to help victims of the state, even if they were not of the Christian faith. His convictions drove him to stand up to a regime that few dared.
Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy: A Righteous Gentile vs. the Third Reich is a detailed account of this complex person. In addition to being an outspoken Lutheran theologian, Bonhoeffer became a double-agent, spying on the enemy and pretending to be in subjection to the regime, all the while gathering information that would be used in an assassination attempt on Hitler.
Bonhoeffer's understanding of his faith required more of him than adhering to a personal moral code and a life of non-violence. His rejection of Hitler's philosophy was unique for a loyal German, especially a religious man. This audiobook contains never-before-revealed facts about his intriguing saga.
Eric Metaxas is a well-known American biographer. In addition to Bonhoeffer, he wrote Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery. His other works include children's books and television scripts, including Veggie Tales and Strawberry Shortcake. Bonhoeffer's works have won awards and attracted accolades, including the 2010 Evangelical Christian Publishers Association's "Christian Book of the Year" Award.
Metaxas is also known as an effective commentator, narrator and debater. He's commentated for CNN, MSNBC and Fox News. Additionally, he's been featured on NPR and The History Channel, and has debated at the Oxford Union, the nation's oldest debating society.
Mataxas resides in Manhattan with his wife and daughter.
"This is a really excellent book. It gives real insight into the life of Bonhoeffer and reveals his spirit. Also, an excellent history lesson is woven into the narrative. So the book reveals the extraordinary faithful and courageous person against the backdrop of the evil that was Nazi Germany."
— Alan (5 out of 5 stars)
" Wow. I was really impressed by this book. Both an engrossing story about a fascinating and complex man, and a clear and convicting challenge to live in faith-- not just "for something that matters" but wholly committed to God and in obedience to whatever his call might be. "
— Renah, 2/13/2014" My current audio--should be required reading for ALL Christians today. Scary parallels to today's world in this book......... "
— Lisa, 2/11/2014" Great book. Pacing was a bit slow at times, but that's expected with a biography. There's something in this book for everyone. If anything, Bonhoeffer shows that Christians need to have a healthy, Biblical interest and understanding of politics. "
— Dustin, 2/10/2014" The Lutheran Shindler, some called him. Inspiring true story from NAZI Germany and the sacrifice one man made because of his deep faith and beliefs. "
— B, 2/1/2014" Couldn't put it down, is resulting in somber personal reflection. "
— Jeremy, 1/30/2014" Supremely long but every page is so worth it! Really takes you into the life of a man who not only trusted in the gospel but lived out the gospel! "
— Cindy, 1/20/2014" I am still in the process of reading this book, but have taken a turn for a while and finished LAST IN TOWER and am now in the midst of GREAT EXPECTATIONS. I will return to Bonhoeffer in a few days. I still feel it is a very interesting book. "
— Carole, 1/10/2014" Wonderful! So many great quotes and nuggets to study on. "
— Tammy, 1/6/2014" I loved this book. It was a fascinating look at an incredible man. I learned a lot about the German perspective on the world wars, and I was convicted by this man's desire to live out his life before God. "
— Anna, 12/24/2013" A powerful story about an incredible life (and death) but a dry sometimes difficult read. "
— Kathleen, 11/18/2013" Amazing... Humbling... Will shake your foundations... Did mine . "
— Chris, 11/6/2013Eric Metaxas is an American Christian author, speaker, and conservative radio host. His 2014 book Miracles was a New York Times bestseller. His biographies, children’s books, and works of popular apologetics have been translated into multiple languages around the world. He was awarded the Canterbury Medal in 2011 by the Becket Fund for Religious Freedom.
Malcolm Hillgartner is an accomplished actor, writer, and musician. Named an AudioFile Best Voice of 2013 and the recipient of several Earphones Awards, he has narrated over 250 audiobooks.