Does Bonhoeffer sense this stupidity only in those who believe that they are gaining power? I think that I see it in those who believe that they are losing power also.
I suspect that, as humans, all of us are susceptible to this at one time or another. The only way to avoid falling into the trap is to keep our eyes on Jesus.
Hate is also a form of stupidity. When we hate our enemies we are in effect giving them power over our thoughts and actions. I see it now when liberals are calling for political violence against the Trump regime, forgetting that he would love to have an excuse to declare martial law and use the weapons sequestered in armories in our neighborhoods, and tanks and planes in military bases across the country. We wouldn't stand a chance.
In our 2025 context, why are so many who follow the current administration also claiming to have their eyes on Jesus? And, how does media play into the creation of “stupidity”? Bonhoeffer didn’t have to factor in tv or social media. I, too, would like more thought on how to respond to our variation of stupidity.
Insightful and disturbing. I would like, actually need more, about how to perceive and respond to this insidious stupidity that seems to be in the air everywhere.
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10), and "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 2:5). I cannot remember who wrote this definition, but a theologian I read a while back wrote that wisdom is the ability [gifted or practiced] to look at a situation, break it down into its parts, and find the good, the best solution or perspective. And I may be leaving something out, the memory isn't what it used to be, but that really struck a chord. Solomon was quite creative in this process, right? Who would have thought of offering to saw a baby in half? And if you think about it, the spiritual gift of discernment plays an important role here.
Does Bonhoeffer sense this stupidity only in those who believe that they are gaining power? I think that I see it in those who believe that they are losing power also.
I suspect that, as humans, all of us are susceptible to this at one time or another. The only way to avoid falling into the trap is to keep our eyes on Jesus.
I believe the ancient Greeks had a saying "Against stupidity, the gods themselves contend in vain".
“Stupidity is better kept a secret than displayed.”
— Heraclitus
Hate is also a form of stupidity. When we hate our enemies we are in effect giving them power over our thoughts and actions. I see it now when liberals are calling for political violence against the Trump regime, forgetting that he would love to have an excuse to declare martial law and use the weapons sequestered in armories in our neighborhoods, and tanks and planes in military bases across the country. We wouldn't stand a chance.
Wow, very powerful! I hope you write more about this.
This piece from Bonhoeffer’s work is particularly insightful and relevant for our day. Thank you for sharing.
In our 2025 context, why are so many who follow the current administration also claiming to have their eyes on Jesus? And, how does media play into the creation of “stupidity”? Bonhoeffer didn’t have to factor in tv or social media. I, too, would like more thought on how to respond to our variation of stupidity.
Stupidity is a social contagion or meme. Resisting the spirit of the group/society to live according to the Spirit of God. Hmm
Maybe, maybe not. Self-awareness helps.
Wow! Bohnhoeffer is spot on again! Amazing.
Insightful and disturbing. I would like, actually need more, about how to perceive and respond to this insidious stupidity that seems to be in the air everywhere.
It's always them who are the stupid ones huh?
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10), and "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 2:5). I cannot remember who wrote this definition, but a theologian I read a while back wrote that wisdom is the ability [gifted or practiced] to look at a situation, break it down into its parts, and find the good, the best solution or perspective. And I may be leaving something out, the memory isn't what it used to be, but that really struck a chord. Solomon was quite creative in this process, right? Who would have thought of offering to saw a baby in half? And if you think about it, the spiritual gift of discernment plays an important role here.
And yes, Bonhoeffer hit the nail on the head, again.