Karl Barth's contribution to the German church struggle against national socialism

Abstract

Germany was under a totalitarian regime led by Adolf Hitler from 1933 to 1945. This article looks at the responses of the churches in Germany during that period. In particular, Karl Barth’s theology on church and state is examined to determine to what extent it did assist Germany in fighting National Socialism and in rebuilding Germany after the war. The author is of the view that most of Barth’s insights could be relevant and would be applicable today especially in those countries that are still being ruled by autocrats and dictators.