Bonhoeffer on Duty

Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a German theologian in the 20th century. He was other known for his active opposition against the Nazi regime, which cost him his life.
Bonhoeffer’s moral theology was deeply rooted in Lutheranism. It placed great emphasis on ‘duty’, asserting that it wasn’t an abstract concept but something which must be concretely lived.
He suggested that Christians have a duty to live according to Christ’s teachings, regardless of the challenges or difficulties they might face.
Bonhoeffer stressed on the idea of Christian discipleship. For him, being a disciple meant a serious commitment to emulate Jesus’s life in every aspect, including suffering, if need be.
He proposed the concept of ‘costly grace’, trying to emphasise that grace is not cheap or easily attained. It involves taking up one’s cross, providing a foundation for action in the world no matter what risks or sacrifices it involves.
Bonhoeffer aimed at a ‘this-worldly’ Christianity, seeking God’s justice in the world itself. This requires active participation to challenge unjust systems and stand against evil.
His concept of ethical action is beautifully explained in his writings: “The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children.”
For Bonhoeffer, duty was a response to the call of Christ, which directly challenges evil and participates in the world by taking responsible actions.
One of his influential works, ‘Ethics’, articulated a new ethical framework for the Christian life. He urged people to perform their duties as their vows to God, which must be fulfilled under all circumstances.
He believed that misunderstanding clearing up one’s obligation is an act of self-justification and disobedience, differing them from the ethical dimension of duty.
At the heart of Bonhoeffer’s theology was his belief that God is most vividly encountered in Jesus Christ, who lived a fully human life, and hence, the followers are obliged to live an authentic human life, full of ethical duties and responsibilities.
Bonhoeffer’s teachings challenge Christians to consider their moral actions as reflections of their faith, constantly asking how their deeds align with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.
He inspires individuals to realise that duty is an essential aspect of Christian discipleship, bearing witness to the truth even in the direst of situations. It was this conviction that led Bonhoeffer to resist the Nazi regime, practising what he preached, as his final act of duty.

Remember, Bonhoeffer’s views are just one interpretation of Christian moral action. It’s important to compare and contrast his ideas with other viewpoints when discussing the subject.