The Imitation of Christ: Selections Annotated & Explained
About this ebook
Next to the Bible, The Imitation of Christ is the most widely read devotional work within the Christian community. Thought to be compiled by fifteenth-century cleric Thomas à Kempis (c. 1380–1471), this spiritual classic focuses the contemporary God-seeker on a religion of the heart—a 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 Wesley’s 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 text’s roots in the Bible, the early Church, and medieval mysticism; and explains its influence—spanning five hundred years—on spiritual luminaries from saints to popes and its continuing significance today.
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About the author
Paul Wesley Chilcote, PhD, is academic dean and professor of historical theology and Wesleyan studies at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. He enjoys a special relationship with Mt. Angel Abbey in Oregon as a Benedictine Oblate and is the author of many books, including Early Methodist Spirituality; Recapturing the Wesley's Vision: An Introduction to the Faith of John and Charles Wesley; and John & Charles Wesley: Selections from Their Writings and Hymns—Annotated & Explained (SkyLight Paths).
Thomas à Kempis (also known as Thomas Hemerken) d. 1471, was a late medieval Catholic monk.
