382 - Bonhoeffer and South Africa: Theology in Dialogue

Bonhoeffer and South Africa: Theology in Dialogue
By John W. de Gruchy
Grand Rapids, Eerdmans, 1984. 152 pp. $6.95.

In this new book, John W. de Gruchy of the University of Capetown and editor of the Journal of Theology for Southern Africa points out the relevance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's thought for the life of the church in South Africa today, engaging the theology of Bonhoeffer and his own theological thinking in dialogue.

The first chapter embodies a searching analysis of Bonhoeffer's life, work, and theology. The core of Bonhoeffer's theology, in which the centrality of the incarnation and crucifixion of Jesus comes to the fore, is discussed with great insight. Hand in hand with the development of

383 - Bonhoeffer and South Africa: Theology in Dialogue

Bonhoeffer's theology, his life and witness are dealt with. Bonhoeffer is depicted as the "troublesome witness to Jesus Christ," someone who repeatedly chose to stake everything in order to witness to the crucified and living Lord.

The writer explains convincingly how theological dialogue with Bonhoeffer can be very, fruitful for the South African situation. He proceeds to do so on various levels, as follows: "The first level is that at which we critically investigate Bonhoeffer's theology in its own context; the second level is that of theological reflection on and analysis of our own historical situation; and the third level is that of reflective participation, obedient discipleship, or praxis. It is at the third level that the integration takes place, or, to use the language of H. G. Gadamer, the horizons are fused.'"

Chapter 2 contains an analysis of the white and black political and church situation in South Africa, indicating what the role of the church is in this "turning point in history." The meaning of the doctrine of God's providence for these disruptive times in South Africa is spelled out as the wrath of God as a sign of grace." In a gripping theological manner, the discussion in chapter 3 describes the necessity for liberation of the whites from their position of privilege enabling them to serve others. A sound analysis of the situation of white Christians is given. Thereafter, the thorny question of civil disobedience is discussed in the light of Calvinism-the dominant theological tradition in South Africa. De Gruchy quite rightly finds that Christians in South Africa today have a responsibility to disobey. Lastly, the Barmen Declaration and the Confessing Church from which it emanated are dealt with in terms of their relevance for South Africa today. There are great similarities as well as differences between Bonhoeffer's situation and that of Christians in South Africa. Barmen and the Confessing Church are seen as models for many Christians here in their struggle against what is oppressive in society.

De Gruchy does his theological work in dynamic interaction with the historical situation. His endeavors have produced a publication of great significance for the church in South Africa. He points the way for praxis and gives direction on how to be a troublesome witness against the stream. The theological guidelines suggested in this book deserve to be pursued in our often confusing situation. If we choose the write'rs course, we can at least be sure that we shall be witnesses for Christ.

For Americans who want to know more about the situation of the church in South Africa and who want insight and guidance in regard to what to think and what to do, this book will be of great help. For Christians in South Africa, it is a must.

Hendrik J. C. Pieterse
University of South Africa
Pretoria, South Africa