Book Review: Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and an Ethic of Resistance

Reggie L. Williams' Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and an Ethic of Resistance is an insightful and well-researched examination of German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer's time in New York and his experiences in Harlem, which significantly transformed his understanding of God and Christianity.

One of the strengths of this book lies in its successful attempt to retrace Bonhoeffer's spiritual journey, explaining how the radicalized context of Harlem, and his exposure to Black churches and the vibrant cultural movement of the Harlem Renaissance, expanded his theological perspectives. Williams deftly analyzes how this encounter with the African American experience, laden with systemic injustice, yet ripe with faith and resilience, caused a seismic shift in Bonhoeffer's theological understanding, fueling his opposition to Nazi regime upon his return to Germany.

Throughout the text, Williams, an accomplished scholar, demonstrates a deep understanding of Bonhoeffer's theology and life, using it as a lens to explore the broader historical context and societal structures that were in place during the Harlem Renaissance. He interweaves the stories of Bonhoeffer's theological evolution with an examination of the role of Black theology and resistance during that era, thus giving readers a holistic understanding of the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of that time.

The depth of theological and philosophical discussions requires a keen interest in the subject matter, potentially limiting its accessibility. However, for readers engaged in theology, social justice, history, or African American studies, the dense academic exploration pays off with its rich insights and revelations.

Williams' interpretation of Bonhoeffer's theology in light of his time in Harlem is indeed insightful, but it could be argued that the author, at times, relies too heavily on inference rather than direct evidence. While Bonhoeffer’s immersion in the Harlem environment was transformative, the exact extent to which this influenced his later theology and resistance against Nazism can be open to debate.

Bonhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and an Ethic of Resistance is an enlightening and thought-provoking exploration of a lesser-known period in Dietrich Bonhoeffer's life. The text offers readers a unique perspective on the impact of the Harlem Renaissance on an individual’s theological transformation, and provides a broader understanding of the intersection of race, religion, and resistance. This book is a valuable addition to the libraries of readers interested in these topics and is a worthy contribution to the ongoing dialogue surrounding them.