Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Christian Humanism

This may be the best book on Bonhoeffer to appear in English in several decades, bearing as it does the detailed outlines of a new and fulsome reading of his theology. * Sean Hayden, Religious Studies Review *
We are dealing here, without doubt, with a solid, well-balanced study that knows its sources. The basic thesis that Bonhoeffer represents a Christian Humanism is supported by strong arguments. Even thought doubts remain whether this perspective is necessary, its potential for advancing discussion is incontestable. * Andreas Pangritz, Theologische Revue [translated] *
This rich volume is a must for every scholar who strives at a full picture of what humanism could mean in the twenty first century. It reaches far beyond the closed circle of Bonhoeffer-research. * Ralk K. Wüstenberg, Europa-Universität Flensburg, and Von Hügel Institute, University of Cambridge, Religion & Theology *
the author exhaustively explores Bonhoeffer's writings, from his earliest student papers to his ruminations from prison, to make a strong case for seeing him as one who understands the goal of authentic humanization as what salvation in Jesus Christ betokens...Even for those well-versed in Bonhoeffer's oeuvre, Zimmermann offers a refreshing immersion in Bonhoeffer's development as a theologian, with the benefit of expert commentary on those who influenced him, both among his contemporaries and from the great tradition of the church. * John Rollefson, Author of the trilogy, Postils for Preaching: Commentaries on the Revised Common Lectionary, Years A, B & C., Currents in Theology and Mission *
At last, a full and sympathetic locating of Bonhoeffer in the context of the broadest possible theological tradition. His unique contribution to Protestant thought, and to the Christian resistance to totalitarianism and atrocity, is grounded in a much wider set of influences than most readers have realised, and this excellent book fills many gaps in understanding -- as well as stressing by implication how much this broader tradition has to say in our own global political crises. * Rowan Williams, Master at Magdalene College, Cambridge *
What an interesting idea but one that turns out to be more than an idea, that is, to read Bonhoeffer as a theologian engaged in the hard work of recovering our humanity. To be sure, as Zimmermann's scholarship shows, Bonhoeffer's 'humanism' is Christological all the way down. God became human that we might be what we were created to be in Christ. Zimmermann's book is not only a constructive account of how to reclaim a Christian humanism but it will become one of the most important books for those wanting to understand Bonhoeffer. * Stanley Hauerwas, Gilbert T. Rowe Professor Emeritus of Divinity and Law, Duke Divinity School *