Did Karl Barth say you must hold the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other?

Answer 1

The best exploration of this I've come across is found on the Princeton Theological Seminary web-site at:-

http://libweb.ptsem.edu/collections/barth/faq/quotes.aspx?menu=296&subText=468

Where it says:-

Perhaps the most clear statement on the record from Barth concerning these matters comes from a Time Magazine piece on Barth published on Friday, May 31, 1963. "[Barth] recalls that 40 years ago he advised young theologians 'to take your Bible and take your newspaper, and read both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible.'"The Time article goes on to give us more of Barth's thoughts on journalists and their place in the world:"Newspapers, he says, are so important that 'I always pray for the sick, the poor, journalists, authorities of the state and the church - in that order. Journalists form public opinion. They hold terribly important positions. Nevertheless, a theologian should never be formed by the world around him - either East or West. He should make his vocation to show both East and West that they can live without a clash. Where the peace of God is proclaimed, there is peace on earth is implicit. Have we forgotten the Christmas message?'"

Answer 2

Yes, Karl Barth famously highlighted the importance of interpreting scripture in the context of the current world events. He emphasized the need for Christians to engage with both the teachings of The Bible and the realities of the world around them.