The God Who Is Given: Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Sacramental Theology and Religionless Christianity

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's concept of religionless Christianity challenges traditional evangelical beliefs and encourages a deeper faith through a more vigorous encounter with Christ. Chris Dodson's interpretation helps to reconcile Bonhoeffer's theology with evangelicalism by emphasizing the importance of the sacraments in forming a life of faith and love.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2021
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Dietrich Bonhoeffer's concept of religionless Christianity has sparked significant theological debate, often hindering the reception of his work within the evangelical community. To enhance our understanding of Bonhoeffer's perspective, Chris Dodson contextualizes religionless Christianity within the framework of Lutheran sacramental theology. By doing so, Dodson reinforces Bonhoeffer's belief that receiving the God-given sacraments, such as baptism, the Eucharist, and confession, not only challenges Christians' inclination towards religious self-interest but also fosters a life of profound faith and love. Through these sacramental practices, Christians are instilled, sustained, located, and vitalized in the form of life that Bonhoeffer refers to as "religionless."

It is important to note that Bonhoeffer's prison letters do not abandon the church or its core practices. Instead, they are reengaged with a proper disposition: a faithful love of God and neighbor. This approach addresses common evangelical skepticism about Bonhoeffer's later theology, providing a way to reassess and restructure worship in line with a religionless Christianity that promotes a deeper faith through a more vigorous encounter with Christ.

In essence, Bonhoeffer's theology challenges evangelicals, particularly American evangelicals, to reconsider and reshape their worship practices in light of a religionless Christianity that encourages a more profound faith and a more intimate relationship with Christ. By embracing this perspective, evangelicals can deepen their understanding of the Gospel and its transformative power in their lives.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781978700840