The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis

     Translated by Rev. William Benham

 

 

The Imitation of Christ is a Christian devotional written anonymously in the early 15th century. Today, it is commonly attributed to Thomas à Kempis, a German-Dutch Catholic priest. It is one of the most widely read Christian works, apart from the Bible.

 

I first learned of this work from a contemporary Christian author who quoted from its text. Then, a fellow believer recommended it, warning that it would challenge my self-perception. Still, later, I learned of noteworthy theologians who thought highly of it.

 

The title alone excites me. It suggests the highest ideal, which I imperfectly aspire to: Christ-likeness. So, I was eager to read this work and had high expectations. However, I was disappointed by certain points and took great exception to one.

 

The author warns about the lure of the world and one’s ego, with little appeal to be like Christ. The author lived and preached a monastic lifestyle and withdrawal from the world, which I cannot reconcile with the Great Commission of Jesus Christ:

 

Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you... Matthew 28:19-20

 

Despite these issues, the author made some good points. His words convicted me of my shortcomings in mirroring Christ's ideal. In my prayer life, I often ask the Lord to help me see myself as he sees me. The author gave me much food for thought.

 

However, I have one rather significant issue with the author’s writing. He would often write as if in the words of Christ himself. For example:

 

As I of my own will offered myself unto God the Father on the Cross for thy sins with outstretched hands and naked body, so that nothing remained in Me that did not become altogether a sacrifice for the Divine propitiation; so also oughtest thou every day to offer thyself willingly unto Me for a pure and holy oblation with all thy strength and affections, even to the utmost powers of thine heart.

 

I believe this is a serious offense. We are never free to claim something as the words of Christ that Christ did not say. At the very least, it is presumptuous, as if Christ needs a little help with his message. At worst, it is sacrilege.

 

I am reluctant to censure so strongly since greater minds than mine have quoted and lauded this work. But I am lukewarm at best about this devotional.

 

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