This notable study of Christian faith and how it functions in “dark times” reveals the thoughts and actions of six leading theologians of the Weimar Republic/Third Reich period–Karl Barth, Rudolf Bultmann, Paul Tillich, Paul Althaus, Emanuel Hirsch, and Friedrich Gogarten–and what prompted them to either resist or support the Nazi movement. Jack Forstman examines the theological values of these theologians and considers the interconnectedness among them; their easy, uneasy, and shifting alliances with each other; and the controversies that arose within their circle. His book provides a fascinating glimpse into an important moment in the history of Christian theology. It will stimulate contemporary Christians to think how they might recognize the demonic in society and resist it.
Jack Forstman is Professor Emeritus of Theology and Dean Emeritus of Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, Tennessee.