Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas receives mixed reviews. Positively noted for its engaging writing, the biography provides a detailed portrait of Bonhoeffer. However, critics highlight potential historical inaccuracies and a lack of critical analysis. It's appraised for making Bonhoeffer's story accessible, though some question its objectivity.

Ideal for readers interested in theology, biography, and WWII history, Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy appeals to fans of The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom and Silence by Shusaku Endo. It suits those who appreciate stories of moral courage and spiritual insight.

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas explores the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian and pastor who opposed Nazi ideology. The biography examines Bonhoeffer's spiritual journey, his resistance efforts during World War II, and his ultimate martyrdom. The book highlights his theological insights and enduring legacy within Christianity.

Informative / Inspirational / Challenging / Mysterious

- Eric Metaxas' biography, Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy, was originally published in 2010 and has since been considered a deeply detailed account of the theologian's life, earning a spot on the New York Times Bestseller list.
- To write Bonhoeffer, Eric Metaxas conducted extensive research, including interviews and access to personal papers, letters, and documents that were not readily available to the general public, providing unique insights into Bonhoeffer's life.
- Eric Metaxas' book on Dietrich Bonhoeffer has contributed to renewed interest and scholarship in the life and works of the German theologian, sparking discussions and debates in both religious and academic circles.

**Dietrich Bonhoeffer**  
A German theologian and leader in the resistance against Nazi influence in the church known for his contributions to ecumenical and theological movements. He became engaged to Maria von Wedemeyer and worked closely with figures like Eberhard Bethge and Martin Niemöller.

**Eberhard Bethge**  
A student of Bonhoeffer and his closest friend, serving as the main correspondent during Bonhoeffer's imprisonment. He later became Bonhoeffer's biographer and editor of his posthumously published works.

**Karl Barth**  
A Swiss-German theologian known for his role in shaping neo-orthodox theology, significantly influencing Bonhoeffer. He was a key figure in the Confessing Church's foundation and authored the Barmen Declaration.

**Martin Niemöller**  
A German pastor who initially supported Hitler but later opposed the Nazi influence on the church. He invited Bonhoeffer to lead a seminary for the Confessing Church and was imprisoned during World War II.

**Bishop George Bell**  
An Anglican bishop who supported Bonhoeffer's resistance efforts against Hitler. His ecclesiastical and political influence helped amplify the Confessing Church's struggles internationally.

**Maria von Wedemeyer**  
Bonhoeffer's fiancée during the final years of his life, known for her intelligence and cultured demeanor. She maintained a correspondence with Bonhoeffer while he was imprisoned.

Eric Metaxas

Adult

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Bonhoeffer reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Bonhoeffer | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Bonhoeffer and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Bonhoeffer Summary and Study Guide

Background

Bonhoeffer Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 5

Bonhoeffer Prologue-Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Bonhoeffer Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

Bonhoeffer Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

Bonhoeffer Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-25

Bonhoeffer Chapters 21-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-31

Bonhoeffer Chapters 26-31 Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

Bonhoeffer Key Figures

theme

Themes

Bonhoeffer Themes

Index of Terms

Bonhoeffer Index of Terms

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

Bonhoeffer Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Bonhoeffer Essay Topics

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Bonhoeffer?

Reading Age

Book Details