God, you began it with me. You pursued me, you would not let me go, again and again you suddenly stepped into my path here or there, you enticed and beguiled me, you made my heart pliable and willing, you spoke to me of your longing and your everlasting love, of your faithfulness and your strength; when I sought strength, you strengthened me; when I sought a hold, you held me; when I sought forgiveness, you forgave my guilt. I had not wanted it, but you overcame my will, my resistance, my heart. God, you seduced me irresistibly, so that I gave myself over to you. Lord, you have persuaded me, and I let myself be persuaded. You seized me like one who suspected nothing – and now I can no longer get free of you. You have become too strong for me, and you have won.

— Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945), Theologe und Widerstandskämpfer

Related Bible passage: JER.20.7

Topics: Guidance & God's Will, Faith & Trust, God, Jesus & the Holy Spirit

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945) war ein deutscher lutherischer Theologe, Pfarrer und führender Vertreter der Bekennenden Kirche, der unter anderem in Berlin, London und Finkenwalde wirkte. Er prägte den Begriff der „teuren Gnade“ und schloss sich aus christlicher Überzeugung dem Widerstand gegen das nationalsozialistische Regime an, weshalb er 1945 im Konzentrationslager Flossenbürg ermordet wurde. Seine Schriften fordern Bibelleser bis heute heraus, theologische Erkenntnis mit gelebter Nachfolge und ethischer Zivilcourage in Krisenzeiten zu verbinden.

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Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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