Imitation of Christ – Tomas a’ Kempis
July 22, 2009 by Rene Nepomuceno
IMITATION OF CHRIST
By Thomas a Kempis
FORWARD
Thomas Kempis was considered a representative of devotio moderna (modern devotion) form of mysticism. In this famous writing The Imitation of Christ, he gives an account of the condition of the human soul, fallen and corrupt. He therefore encouraged Christians in his days to fight this dreadful situation by daily reflection and devotion, and to follow and imitate Christ.
Thomas Kempis lived before the reformation era (1380 – 1471) and his writings were intended to bring Christian life away from the corrupt and worldly practices that has pervaded the Christian institutions of his time.
As we read The Imitation of Christ, we may find some of his thoughts as too far fetch and unreasonable for today’s liberal reasoning. However, this does not remove the value of learning from his passion and sincere dedication to live a life worthy to be called a follower of Christ.
I recommend this reading to our small groups communities for the following reasons:
- To learn and understand how pre reformation Christians responded to the worldliness that invaded the institutional church of their days.
- To become familiar how the early Christians understood what it is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
- To regain the lost spiritual insight and understanding of the “olden days” which cannot be found in today’s materialistic “prosperity centered” gospels.
- To amend our lives to faithful discipleship just as a’ Kempis intends.
Finally, I believe it is very important for us today to revisit and consult our history and the faithful followers of the Lord Jesus who have gone ahead of us, disciples of Jesus whose dedication and passion to live godly lives to be paramount in their walk with Christ.
Rene Nepomuceno
12 June 2009
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