This paper is an analysis on Bonhoeffer’s view of ethics: especially on how his ethical perspective has developed. The research has been done on two of his outstanding works of ethics, Nachfolge and Ethik, both of which reveal Bonhoeffer’s understanding more prominently than any other works of his. For the research and for better understanding of his ethical view, the two books need to be read meticulously. Before delving into the main texts, this study briefly shows how theologians have discussed Bonhoeffer’s view and its developmental characteristic. Then the historical background is provided on how these two books came to the world. Nine ethical subjects from each book are dealt via the means of comparison. What becomes clear through this analysis is “continuity” in Bonhoeffer’s ethical view and its developmental characteristic, which are permeated in both Nachfolge and Ethik. While the study compares the historical backgrounds and the points at issue, it also brings into focus Bonhoeffer’s concern for ethics and his understanding of its role. Bonhoeffer pays attention to the real world, more specifically, the current situation of the world he is living in.
However, at the same time, in an attempt to integrate the world into the Word, he brings the world to “God of today” which is revealed in Jesus Christ. In other words, Bonhoeffer’s ethics begins neither with an objective observation nor from an abstract idea on the principles of the world. Rather, it begins with God in Jesus Christ who actively connects the world to himself through purposeful intervention. Such understanding plays an important role in Bonhoeffer’s life, especially when he had to practice ‘mit-leben zu lernen’ (a life of integration) during NAZI regime and the period of Konspiration. Finally, the influence of Bonhoeffer’s ethical view on Korean church is discussed. It will help guide Korean church, still dampened by ethical crisis, to restoration.