Today’s post is an interpretation of the first chapter of the most popular devotional book in the history of Christianity, The Imitation of Christ. It was written by a monk (or possibly several monks) in the 15th century named Thomas a Kempis. The chapter has been clarified, condensed and changed in a few places, all with the hope that it will be easier to read without losing any of the power of the original. Notice how direct and challenging the author is; this style is not as popular today but does reflect the urgency found in scripture. The first chapter leads us to focus on Jesus’ words and follow his example.
Imitation of Christ, Chapter One.
Jesus said “Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness.” (John 8:12) He teaches us to follow his example if we want to see true light. Let us make it our highest priority to meditate on his life so we know how to follow his example.
Those who have the Spirit of Christ find hidden treasure in Jesus’ words. His words are supreme above all others’. If we want Jesus’ words to change us we must strive to make our whole life like his.
Jesus showed us how to pursue a godly life; he did not simply teach profound ideas. What good does it do to give a profound talk about the nature of God and yet displease God because we lack humility? Fancy words don’t make us godly, only a virtuous life pleases God.
It is better to be repentant than to know how to define repentance. If we know the whole bible frontwards and backwards, and learn all the principles taught in the scriptures what good would it do us if we didn’t love God? Everything is worthless compared to loving and serving him. There is no greater wisdom than rejecting worldliness and seeking the kingdom of God.
It is pointless to set our heart on wealth.
It is pointless to seek great honor.
It is a waste to follow the destructive passions of the flesh.
It is a waste to live a long life but not a good life.
It is foolish to chase the temporary and ignore the eternal.
Our passions can not be satisfied; they keep wanting more and more. Instead, we should turn our heart from what is seen to what is unseen. “Things that are seen are temporary; things that are unseen are eternal.” (II Cor 4:18) We should take our eyes off of the worldly pleasures we see around us. If we indulge our destructive passions we dishonor ourselves and nullify God’s work.
