Imitation of Christ
Join Jim Caviezel in reading the entirety of the spiritual classic, the Imitation of Christ. The Imitation of Christ was written in the 15th century and is the most widely-read Christian book after the Bible. The translation we will be using comes from Pauline Books & Media.
115 séances
1IntroductionListen to the introduction to “The Imitation of Christ”, written by Mary Lea Hill, FSP.
The Imitation of Christ12 min
2Book 1 Chapter 1In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes imitating Christ, dismissing worldly knowledge and pleasures, and valuing humility and God's love.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
3Book 1 Chapter 2In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advocates for humility and self-awareness, emphasizing that true knowledge and wisdom come only from God.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
4Book 1 Chapter 3In this chapter, we focus on seeking truth through God rather than scholarly endeavors, emphasizing a simple, direct relationship with God.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
5Book 1 Chapter 4In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses prudence in actions, avoiding hasty judgment, and acting in accordance with God's will.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
6Book 1 Chapter 5In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis highlights reading Scripture for spiritual growth and discernment, not just for knowledge.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
7Book 1 Chapter 6In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis asserts that inordinate desires disrupt inner peace, advocating for humility and spiritual focus over succumbing to pride, anger, and sensual pleasures for true tranquility.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
8Book 1 Chapter 7In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis urges humility and trust in God over self or material wealth, warning against pride in personal attributes and emphasizing peace in humility.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
9Book 1 Chapter 8In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises discretion in confiding in others, recommending company of the wise and God-fearing, and caution in social interactions to focus on spiritual connections.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
10Book 1 Chapter 9In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis highlights the nobility and peace found in obedience and submitting to authority, cautioning against pride and self-will in favor of humility and openness to others' opinions.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
11Book 1 Chapter 10In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises avoiding arguments and idle talk, suggesting focusing on edifying conversations and noting that excessive talking can hinder spiritual progress.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
12Book 1 Chapter 11In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises focusing on personal spiritual growth, avoiding distractions from others' actions, and overcoming personal vices and desires for inner peace.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
13Book 1 Chapter 12In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis views troubles as beneficial for humility and inner reflection, encouraging reliance on God over worldly comforts and acknowledging life's transience.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
14Book 1 Chapter 13In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the inevitability and value of temptations in life, advising patience, humility, and early resistance for spiritual growth and reliance on God.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
15Book 1 Chapter 14In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises self-examination over judgment of others, cautions against seeking self-interest, and emphasizes reliance on God for enlightenment.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
16Book 1 Chapter 15In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the importance of charity and selflessness in performing good works, highlighting that love and affection matter more to God than the quantity of the work.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
17Book 1 Chapter 16In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis explores the need for patience in bearing others' flaws.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
18Book 1 Chapter 17In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the rigorous life of monasticism, emphasizing the virtues of obedience, humility, and self-denial as pathways to spiritual growth.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
19Book 1 Chapter 18In this chapter, we learn about the importance of emulating the holy fathers, focusing on their deeds and virtues as models for a devout life.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
20Book 1 Chapter 19In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis describes the qualities of a truly religious person, highlighting the significance of internal devotion over outward appearances.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
21Book 1 Chapter 20In this chapter, we explore the value of solitude and silence in spiritual development, recognizing their role in deepening one’s relationship with God.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
22Book 1 Chapter 21In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis reflects on the power of a contrite heart, stressing the need for true repentance and humility in seeking God’s forgiveness.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
23Book 1 Chapter 22In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises finding contentment in God rather than in worldly desires. He underscores the universality of suffering and the necessity of patience and spiritual focus to achieve true happiness.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
24Book 1 Chapter 23In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the certainty of death and the importance of preparing for it through a virtuous and righteous life.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
25Book 1 Chapter 24In this chapter, we delve into the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance to avoid judgment and attain salvation.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
26Book 1 Chapter 25In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis urges readers to fervently amend their lives, emphasizing that true peace is found in a life aligned with God’s will.
The Imitation of Christ11 min
27Book 2 Chapter 1In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis underscores the importance of inner spiritual life, advocating for internal dialogue with God over external distractions.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
28Book 2 Chapter 2n this chapter, we're reminded of the value of humility and the limitations of human knowledge compared to God's wisdom.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
29Book 2 Chapter 3In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the virtues of peace-making and goodness as essential elements of Christian life.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
30Book 2 Chapter 4In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis focuses on the need for purity of mind and simplicity in the spiritual quest.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
31Book 2 Chapter 5In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the importance of self-awareness and introspection for gaining spiritual understanding.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
32Book 2 Chapter 6In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis explores the joy and freedom of having a good conscience, highlighting its role in spiritual contentment.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
33Book 2 Chapter 7In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the profound importance of prioritizing love for Jesus above all else.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
34Book 2 Chapter 8In this chapter, the unique and intimate nature of friendship with Jesus is contrasted with human relationships.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
35Book 2 Chapter 9In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis addresses the challenge of spiritual dryness and the need for faith and perseverance.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
36Book 2 Chapter 10In this chapter, gratitude and contentment in serving God are encouraged, emphasizing the transience of worldly pursuits.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
37Book 2 Chapter 11In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the importance of valuing spiritual fulfillment over worldly pleasures, emphasizing joy in Christ as the true treasure.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
38Book 2 Chapter 12In this chapter, the focus is on the necessity of embracing suffering and adversity as a means to achieve spiritual growth and closeness to Christ.
The Imitation of Christ13 min
39Book 3 Chapter 1In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis explores the depth of internal conversation between the soul and God, emphasizing the need for solitude and inner silence to truly hear and understand God's voice and guidance.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
40Book 3 Chapter 2In this chapter, the focus is on the inner voice of truth that speaks directly to the heart, guiding and enlightening the soul in silence.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
41Book 3 Chapter 3In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the blessedness of hearing God's voice within, encouraging a humble and attentive posture to receive divine wisdom.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
42Book 3 Chapter 4In this chapter, we explore living in God’s presence, highlighting the importance of truthfulness and simplicity in one's spiritual journey towards union with God.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
43Book 3 Chapter 5In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis examines the transformative effects of divine love, showcasing love as the greatest virtue that leads to profound spiritual joy and freedom.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
44Book 3 Chapter 6In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis explores the idea of true love for God as enduring suffering willingly. This is the proof of genuine devotion and the path to deeper union with Christ.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
45Book 3 Chapter 7In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the preciousness of grace and the need for humility to guard and cherish it, warning against complacency.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
46Book 3 Chapter 8In this chapter, humility is further explored through the lens of self-awareness and the recognition of one's own faults before God, fostering spiritual growth.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
47Book 3 Chapter 9In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises on directing all actions and intentions towards God, ensuring that good deeds are performed for His glory alone.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
48Book 3 Chapter 10In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis contrasts the consolation found in serving God with the emptiness of worldly pursuits, highlighting the soul's fulfillment in divine service.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
49Book 3 Chapter 11In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises on moderating our desires to achieve spiritual peace and contentment, emphasizing the importance of focusing on eternal rather than temporal pleasures.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
50Book 3 Chapter 12In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the spiritual battle against personal desires and the necessity of patience and perseverance to overcome them for spiritual growth.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
51Book 3 Chapter 13In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis highlights the value of obedience and humility, drawing on Christ's example to illustrate the path to true spiritual growth.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
52Book 3 Chapter 14In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis reflects on the significance of divine judgment over human judgment, urging a life lived in accordance with God's will.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
53Book 3 Chapter 15In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the importance of regulating speech and actions, advocating for a life that consistently reflects one's spiritual beliefs.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
54Book 3 Chapter 16In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis encourages finding solace and comfort in God alone, underscoring the inadequacy of worldly pleasures in satisfying the soul.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
55Book 3 Chapter 17In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis stresses the importance of trusting in God's providence, illustrating how surrendering our worries to God brings peace.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
56Book 3 Chapter 18In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis examines the virtue of suffering in imitation of Christ, presenting it as a means to spiritual growth and closeness to God.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
57Book 3 Chapter 19In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis delves into the theme of enduring injuries and wrongs with patience, portraying it as a testament to one's faith.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
58Book 3 Chapter 20In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses accepting life's afflictions with patience, highlighting that peace comes from trusting in God's greater plan.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
59Book 3 Chapter 21In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the importance of inner peace and how it can only be achieved through a deep and personal relationship with God, highlighting the transient nature of worldly distractions.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
60Book 3 Chapter 22In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis reminds us to be grateful to God as gratitude often obtains more graces, while also reminding us to be contented in the gifts and graces we have already received.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
61Book 3 Chapter 23In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis explores the quest for inner peace, emphasizing solitude and the alignment of one's heart with God's will as the path to true tranquility and understanding.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
62Book 3 Chapter 24In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises against prying into others' lives, urging focus on one's own spiritual growth instead.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
63Book 3 Chapter 25In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses achieving inner peace through God's grace over worldly pursuits, emphasizing eternal values.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
64Book 3 Chapter 26In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis favors humble prayer over intellectual study for attaining spiritual freedom, highlighting simplicity.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
65Book 3 Chapter 27In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis praises solitude and silence as means to connect with God, away from life's distractions.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
66Book 3 Chapter 28In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises ignoring slander, focusing on personal growth and trust in God for vindication.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
67Book 3 Chapter 29In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis encourages praising God in hard times, trusting in His will for eventual relief and strength.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
68Book 3 Chapter 30In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses seeking God's mercy for overcoming sin and regaining grace through humility and prayer.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
69Book 3 Chapter 31In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises detaching from worldly things to deeply connect with God, emphasizing spiritual focus and simplicity for divine communion.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
70Book 3 Chapter 32In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the necessity of self-denial and abandonment of personal ambitions for spiritual freedom. True liberty and peace are found in complete resignation to God's will, urging the reader to forsake all for divine union.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
71Book 3 Chapter 33In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis discusses the human heart's fickleness and the necessity of directing all intentions and desires towards God for stability and clarity in spiritual life.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
72Book 3 Chapter 34In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis encourages directing all desires towards God, highlighting that true contentment and understanding come from prioritizing divine love over all worldly attachments.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
73Book 3 Chapter 35In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis teaches that life is full of spiritual battles and temptations, emphasizing the need for patience, reliance on God, and the pursuit of heavenly peace over earthly rest.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
74Book 3 Chapter 36In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis advises against being affected by human judgments, emphasizing humility and God's judgment as the true measure of our actions.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
75Book 3 Chapter 37In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the power of complete self-abandonment to God for achieving inner peace and divine grace.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
76Book 3 Chapter 38In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis highlights the importance of self-mastery and turning to God in times of danger for true freedom and guidance.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
77Book 3 Chapter 39In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis encourages trusting God with all concerns, promoting peace through submission to God's will over anxiety for the future.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
78Book 3 Chapter 40In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis stresses humility as he reminds us that all good and glory belong to God, not to oneself. He encourages a perspective of self as lacking without God's grace.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
79Book 3 Chapter 41In this chapter we look at the importance of contempt for worldly honour and how it can be an impediment to interior peace and strength.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
80Book 3 Chapter 42Today we look at the futility of putting people before God, and the love for others should be based in God.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
81Book 3 Chapter 43This chapter asks us to put aside worldly knowledge and learning, knowing that eternal truth comes from knowing God.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
82Book 3 Chapter 44In this chapter we hear about the effect being distracted by things that don’t matter can have on us spiritually.
The Imitation of Christ2 min
83Book 3 Chapter 45In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis warns us not to believe everyone, and be to careful in speech.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
84Book 3 Chapter 46In this chapter we are encouraged to have confidence in God when criticised by people, and to not depend on one’s own judgment, but Gods.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
85Book 3 Chapter 47In this chapter, we are assured that endurance and suffering for God will bring the reward of eternal life.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
86Book 3 Chapter 48In this chapter, we are painted a vision of heaven and everything we have to look forward to despite our afflictions here on earth.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
87Book 3 Chapter 49In this chapter, we are reminded of the promise of eternal life for those who persevere.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
88Book 3 Chapter 50In this chapter, we hear of the comfort God gives to those who are desolate.
The Imitation of Christ8 min
89Book 3 Chapter 51In this chapter, we are reminded that we cannot always fervently pursue higher things, and how to navigate those moments.
The Imitation of Christ3 min
90Book 3 Chapter 52In this chapter, we are reminded that though God is merciful, we do not deserve consolation, and to remain humble under God’s mercy.
The Imitation of Christ6 min
91Book 3 Chapter 53In this chapter, we are taught that grace is precious, and not communicated to the worldly.
The Imitation of Christ5 min
92Book 3 Chapter 54In this chapter, we are shown how to discern the difference between nature and grace.
The Imitation of Christ9 min
93Book 3 Chapter 55This chapter continues in educating us the characteristics of nature verses grace.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
94Book 3 Chapter 56In this chapter, we are prompted to deny ourselves and to imitate Christ by taking up the cross.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
95Book 3 Chapter 57In this chapter, we are encouraged to be patient with our own failings and weaknesses.
The Imitation of Christ4 min
96Book 3 Chapter 58In this chapter, Thomas à Kempis shares the misgivings of attempting to scrutinise God’s judgments.
The Imitation of Christ11 min
97Book 3 Chapter 59This chapter speaks of the solace that one can find through centering all hope and confidence in God
The Imitation of Christ5 min
98Book 4 Chapter 1In this chapter, we hear of the importance of receiving Christ with reverence.
The Imitation of Christ14 min
99Book 4 Chapter 2This chapter continues with the subject of communion, and the love of God that is demonstrated through the sacrament.
The Imitation of Christ7 min
100Book 4 Chapter 3In this chapter we learn of the disciples joy at receiving communion frequently.
The Imitation of Christ6 min