reaction paper

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Religion and theology are concepts that allow us to analyze life events critically and to possibly solve common life dilemmas. In this context, the decision is often dependent on the prevailing situation. However, the general principles of the Bible ought to be applied in our daily Christian lives to ensure that we live up to biblical standards (Carter, 2004). Dietrich Bonhoeffer is a notable German pastor who made efforts to assassinate Adolf Hitler in view of his evils against the Jews. This has consistently raised debates on whether his actions were religiously upright or not.
The bible is an important reference book that can assist us in solving this dilemma. The video “We the people” emphasizes the point that all power and government comes from God and should, therefore, be respected. This argument is supported by the book of Romans chapter 13 which states that all leaders are ordained by God (Carter, 2004). This then begs the question, are all leader including dictators fronted by God? It would be illogical to apply these concepts arbitrarily without consideration of specific factors such as is the case with Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer acted appropriately by attempting to topple the dictatorial government and thereby liberate the Jews from the Holocaust. The, in this case, has been quoted figuratively. For instance, when the bible says ‘all leadership comes from God……all leaders should be respected…” this does not mean that we suspend reason and apply this concept blindly.

It is especially important to quote the bible according to the context with which it has been written. In fact, some analysts think that Paul was being ironical in his assertions in this letter written to oppressed people (Carter, 2004). The video “we the people” further supports this argument due to the main theories intended to be advanced by the authors of this piece.
In conclusion, the Bible remains an important reference book that provides relevant guiding philosophies to guide our daily lives. However, it is important to adequately understand this text to apply it appropriately (Carter, 2004). The case of Dietrich Bonhoeffer provides a perfect example of life situations that require a critical analysis of the scriptures before coming to any conclusion.

References
Carter, Timothy L. “The Irony of Romans 13.” Novum Testamentum 46.3 (2004): 209-228.