The Cost of Discipleship

[Brenton Smith]

Hi Everyone,

I was just wondering if anyone has been able to get through Dietrich Bonhoeffer's book? I just started this book last week, and it is very intense. I feel like this is going to be another one of those books like TIR that really changes my perspectives on life. Myself and other students are having a weekly discussion on each chapter throughout the course of the summer at my church. What are your thoughts?

[Katy Resop]

Hey Brent,
I started reading it last summer, and I loved it... but yeah, it's pretty dense, and I only got through the first chapter before I got distracted reading something a little lighter. I should definitely pick it back up, though, and I'd love to join in the conversation in whatever ways I can (aka via Imagine Yourself or Facebook or email).
Katy

[Brenton Smith]

Heck yeah I would love that Katy! Every time I sit down with this book, I drink a cup of coffee just to try to be on the same page with Bonhoeffer.

It is such an awesome book thus far though, maybe because it is something the Lutheran church does not emphasize, or not from my experience.

[Nichole Nash]

I have more of a question than a response, and its kind of random... I remember Bonhoeffer's name from doing research on my senior history paper... but I have forgotten who this guy is... is Bonhoeffer a German theologian by any chance?? Also, what is this book about, I'm intrigued now, lol.

[Pat Murack]

Bonhoeffer was a Christian in Germany during World War II. He went against Hitler, tried to kill him, was caught and was hanged. Beyond that he is an amazing theologian that has a great tell it like it is attitude.

This book is about what Bonhoeffer, and I am agreeing with him more than not, thinks is true Christianity and Discipleship. He spells it out, so far I am in the 4th chapter, exactly what our situation is with Christ. He does not use any of the modern fluff or any feel good sermons. He gives you the raw gospel and challenges you to be a better Christian.

[Nichole Nash]

Thanks, Pat! I remember now. I was doing my paper on the Holocaust so thats sounds about right!

[Ray J Gentry IV]

So how's your journey through the book going? I experienced the same difficulty the first time i tried to read it. I put it on hold and read "Letters and Papers from Prison" and gave it another go my freshman year in college. I've gotten through it several times since then and love discussing it. Unfortunately there isn't an abundance of people who've read it. Hope all is well with your journey through the book.