The Imitation of Christ, Chapter 54 summary

What happens

1. The teacher warns that apparently good intentions can conceal selfish motives, making Nature and Grace difficult to distinguish.
2. Nature seeks control, advantage, honor, comfort, and possessions, while Grace embraces submission, service, work, and simplicity.
3. Grace values eternal things, gives generously, and seeks God rather than sensory pleasure or personal rewards.
4. Nature prizes social standing and approval, while Grace loves enemies, favors the poor, and patiently accepts hardship.
5. Grace rejects self-praise and idle curiosity, directing knowledge and action toward useful results and God's honor.
6. The closing explanation defines Grace as God's supernatural gift and connects its increase with overcoming Nature.

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