The Imitation of Christ, Chapter 14 summary
Chapter 14 of 115 · Book 1: Guidance for the Spiritual Life · 1 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 14, the speaker urges readers to examine themselves rather than judge others, because personal feelings and hidden wishes distort their judgments. The argument moves from the mistakes caused by self-interest to the need for submission to God and reliance on Jesus Christ rather than personal reasoning or experience.
What happens
- The speaker contrasts the errors of judging others with the useful work of examining oneself.
- Personal feelings distort judgment, while desire directed toward God reduces the trouble caused by mistaken judgments.
- Hidden motives and outward circumstances divert people, whose apparent peace breaks when their wishes are blocked.
- Differences in feelings and opinions cause conflict, and established habits make other viewpoints difficult to accept.
- The speaker urges reliance on Jesus Christ and submission to God, with reason raised by love for him.
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In this chapter
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What reveals the weakness of the peace some people appear to have?
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