Review of "World come of age"

Published in 1968, Clifford J. Green's "World Come of Age" delves into the intricate theological thought of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, particularly his concept of 'religionless Christianity' and his radical reinterpretation of what it means to live faithfully in a world increasingly devoid of traditional religious frameworks. Green does not merely summarize; he meticulously reconstructs Bonhoeffer's intellectual development, tracing the evolution of these ideas from their nascent forms in earlier writings to their more crystallized, albeit fragmented, expression in the prison letters. This careful chronological and thematic dissection allows readers to appreciate the organic growth of Bonhoeffer's thought, revealing how his personal experiences under Nazism profoundly shaped his theological imperatives, pushing him towards a Christianity that is not merely *for* the world but *of* it.

Green's strength lies in his deep engagement with Bonhoeffer's primary texts, offering a close reading that clarifies rather than obfuscates. He navigates the often aphoristic and sometimes cryptic nature of Bonhoeffer's later writings, providing essential context and drawing out the underlying coherence of his vision. The concept of maturity, central to the book's title, is explored as Bonhoeffer's conviction that humanity has reached a stage where it no longer needs a 'god of the gaps' to explain the inexplicable or to intervene in worldly affairs. Instead, Bonhoeffer, through Green's interpretation, calls for a robust, ethical involvement in the world, grounded in Christ's suffering and solidarity with humanity, rather than reliance on supernatural intervention or ecclesiastical power.

The book is particularly adept at distinguishing Bonhoeffer's radical proposals from mere secularism or atheism, underscoring his unwavering commitment to Christocentric theology. Green illustrates how Bonhoeffer challenges the very foundations of conventional religious practice and thought, questioning the efficacy of traditional piety in a world that has, in his view, 'come of age.' This intellectual interrogation is presented not as a dismissal of faith, but as a profound call for its re-evaluation and re-anchoring in concrete, worldly responsibility and action. The reader is left with a clearer understanding of how Bonhoeffer envisioned a faith that is both deeply spiritual and profoundly secular, serving humanity not by withdrawal, but by engagement.

While Green provides an undeniably comprehensive and insightful analysis, there are moments where the sheer density of theological argument, though necessary for the subject matter, can be somewhat daunting for readers less steeped in Bonhoeffer scholarship or systematic theology. The book occasionally assumes a level of familiarity with theological discourse that might deter a broader audience, making certain passages feel more like an academic treatise than a critical exploration for the uninitiated. A more explicit framing of certain theological debates or a slightly more expansive introductory overview for each thematic section might have broadened its accessibility without sacrificing its intellectual rigor.

Ultimately, "World Come of Age" remains an indispensable contribution to Bonhoeffer studies and a powerful exploration of modern theological thought. Green's work not only elucidates Bonhoeffer's complex ideas but also challenges readers to consider their own understanding of faith, ethics, and engagement with the world. It is a book that demands careful reading and reflection, rewarding the diligent reader with a profound appreciation for Bonhoeffer's prescient vision and Green's masterful articulation of it. This text continues to resonate, urging us to consider what it means for faith to truly live and act responsibly in a world that increasingly defines itself outside traditional religious bounds.