The Imitation of Christ: The Beatitudes Edition

By: Thomas a Kempis

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

The Imitation of Christ, widely believed to be the second best-selling book of all time, is as relevant today as in 1471 when first published. It continues to be one of the most popular of the Christian classics. A profound devotional, it invites those who read to return to it again and again. New insight comes with every reading. The writing style of this Beatitudes version is clear, conversational, compelling. If you find it hard to understand the archaic language of vintage Imitation, this edition is for you. It moves out of the monastery into a busy, cluttered world with answers to questions of the heart people everywhere are asking. Perhaps the most significant difference is the textual arrangement. The traditional sequence has little logical connection between chapters and often not between sentences. Here the words of Thomas à Kempis merge with the New Testament Beatitudes to show the reader in a systematic way who Jesus Christ is and how to live in a way that pleases him. A Sampler The Christ speaks: I am the Way. Follow me. You will never again need to stumble through darkness. As you walk with me, you will begin to understand life’s mysteries. I will be your guide if you make it a priority to observe the way I lived and then commit to following my example. You will begin to see that embedded in my precepts are answers to your every dilemma. The pilgrim prays: Confident of your goodness, Lord, I come. When sick, I come for healing. When hungry and thirsty, I come to drink from your fountain of life. When needy, I come to the King of heaven as a servant to the master. When sorrowing, I come for comfort. Amen. The Christ speaks: Heavenly wisdom appears demanding; in reality, it’s pure and gentle, peace loving, and courteous. It considers the well-being of others, is merciful and responsive. It’s the pearl of great price. Very few possess it. The pilgrim prays: Lord, grant me wisdom to include you each day in everything I do, to love you more than all else, to perceive circumstances as they are and not as they seem, and to see every detail from your perspective. Amen.

An excellent modern adaptation of a classic spiritual devotion

This is a book to which one listens in smaller doses because there is so much depth. This version made sensible adaptations to modern experience, making it more relevant. I really appreciated this book.