A Karl Barth Reader

Prepared for the 1986 celebration of the Karl Barth centennial, this selection from Barth's sermons, letters, addresses, and published writings serves as an excellent introduction to his thinking and faith for those who do not have the time or the background to read Barth's voluminous writings in their entirety. By allowing Barth himself to speak from the wealth of his writings, this book offers a wide range of readers an opportunity to apperciate Karl Barth as a theologian, as a Christian, and as a fellow human being. The selections, which cover all of Barth's active life, are drawn largely from writings that are not readily available in English. Designed for students and nonstudents, theologians and laypersons, this reader is a strong but humble testimony to life centered in Christ. (from backcover) Translator's Preface Prepared for the Barth centennial, this selection from Barth's works serves admirably as an introduction to his thinking for those who have neither the time nor perhaps the desire to plunge into his bulky output for themselves. Indeed, since it draws on various writings that are not readily available, if at all, in English, it may be a useful supplement where some knowledge of Barth and his theology already exists. The translation follows the Swiss original closely except for some shortening of the introductions and chronology, and a few minor excisions in longer passages, to reduce the size and cost. I have used available translations where possible, but sometimes, especially in the case of older or less accessible texts, I have made new renderings. Readers who wish to consult the English passages in detail will welcome the addition of the English page numbers and also of an index of English translations. Pasadena, Advent 1985 / Geoffrey W. Bromiley W. Contents Translator's Preface / vii Introduction / ix Prologue / 1 I. The Theological Axiom / 3 II. The Crisis of All Powers 18 IIl. Faith by the Decision of Jesus Christ / 32 IV. The Gift of Freedom / 49 V. The Church as Watchman /66 VI. Pastoral Care / 80 VII. The Overcoming of Evil 90 VIII. Humanity before God / 98 Epilogue / 111 Chronology / 115 A List of English Translations / 117