Martin Rumscheidt

A Double-Edged Sword

Ethics, Culture & Social Issues

“Can claims that one's acts of violence have divine sanction be examined so that criteria can be established for assessing their authenticity? Brenda Novack presents Saint Joan of Arc's claim as a compelling one, and on its basis, develops such criteria which she then applies to two figures of the twentieth century: Adolf Hitler and Dietrich Bonhoeffer. An intriguing undertaking it is, well done, and worth engaging.”

Searching for God in Godforsaken Times and Places

“The 'godforsaken times and places' that Hubert Locke addresses in this book were not chosen by someone standing by, desirous to give an 'answer' from the perspective of a believer; rather, they are realities that imposed themselves inescapably on him — and still do. What he calls 'reflections' are actually a rigorous search for honesty within and to himself as a person of faith in God. Addressing doubt and skepticism with honesty and integrity, Locke allows readers not only to be present with another human being confronted by 'godforsakenness' but also to face their own doubts with a courage similar to what the author manifests. Precisely because of its powerful autobiographical content, this book will speak lucidly to others who, like Locke, are seekers of honesty and not purveyors of answers that their concrete experience has not provided and tested. Written with great clarity and simplicity, this is a timely and helpful work.”

The Bonhoeffer Legacy

History & Biography

“Demonstrating the same extensive acquaintance with works both by and about Bonhoeffer that marked his The Bonhoeffer Phenomenon, and now drawing on an equally extensive knowledge of Holocaust studies, Haynes examines whether and how Bonhoeffer's legacy contributes to a "post-Holocaust theology." With the hermeneutics of "the witness people," developed in his earlier work: Reluctant Witnesses:Jews and the Christian Imagination, Haynes analyses the claims of scholars who see in Bonhoeffer's work and action from 1933 forward a new approach to Jews and Judaism that is constructive for a theology that takes the Holocaust seriously. Critical of that perspective, this book clearly raises that discussion to a new level. Haynes' book may not be the final word but it is not to be overlooked! Bonhoeffer studies will derive important stimulation from The Bonhoeffer Legacy.”