The Imitation of Christ: Selections Annotated & Explained [Paperback]

Let Jesus's example of holiness, humility and purity of heart be a companion on your own spiritual journey.

Next to the Bible,The Imitation of Christis the most widely read devotional work within the Christian community. Thought to be compiled by fifteenth-century cleric Thomas ? Kempis (c. 13801471), this spiritual classic focuses the contemporary God-seeker on a religion of the hearta vital connection with God in our innermost being. It advocates the cultivation of virtues, like humility and purity of intention, by inviting the spirit of Jesus to dwell richly in our lives. It emphasizes the need to translate that life of love into daily action.

Now you can experience the timeless wisdom of this spiritual classic with no previous knowledge of late medieval Christianity. This SkyLight Illuminations edition, based on John Wesleys popular 1741 abridgment, renders these meditations on the life and teachings of Jesus in a way that is accessible to the contemporary reader. A substantive introduction and facing-page commentary places the work in its original context; clarifies the texts roots in the Bible, the early Church, and medieval mysticism; and explains its influencespanning five hundred yearson spiritual luminaries from saints to popes and its continuing significance today.

Preface xi
Introduction xv

BOOK I
The Life of the Soul
1. The Imitation of Christ 3
2. Humility 5
3. Truth 7
4. Prudence 9
5. Scripture 11
6. Vanity and Pride 13
7. Peace 15
8. Temptation 17
9. Works of Charity 21
10. Long-Suffering 23
11. Holy Forebears 25
12. Solitude and Silence 29
13. Discipline 31
14. Mortality 33
15. The Consequences of Sin 37
16. Transformation 39

BOOK II
The Interior Life
1. The Interior Life 43
2. Humble Submission 47
3. Peace and Goodness 49
4. Simplicity and Purity 51
5. Self-Understanl£Â