Conclusion

Bonhoeffer the conspirator—a dangerous heroism?

Amy E. Varela

pp. 189-200

in: Petra BROWN, Bonhoeffer, Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan, 2019

Abstract

This chapter, the conclusion, asks to what extent the American evangelical reading of Bonhoeffer as a "Christian" example of justified last resort violence is legitimate. It suggests that the image of isolated discipleship that endorses violence can be found in parts of Bonhoeffer's writing, but should not be considered the final Bonhoeffer message for a contemporary age. It draws attention to the dangers of Bonhoeffer's political theology, particularly in light of Schmitt's vision for political life and the current global political climate, including America's own faith-guided political life.