The Imitation Of Christ – Book Review
When I want to deepen my understanding of God, broaden my perspective of what it means to live the Christian life, and gain a new perspective on the spiritual world, there are few things as enlightening as reading a good, Christian devotional.
The men and women who lived before us often provide us with depth and insights about living out our faith that few contemporary writers can match.
Perhaps that’s why, even after 500 years since its original publication date, the devotional classic The Imitation Of Christ by Thomas A Kempis remains second only to the Bible in sales.
The Imitation Of Christ – Classic Devotions In Today’s Language by James Watkins is a modernized rendition of the original classic. The material in the 1773 William Benham translation has been compiled and edited into 90 devotions by James N. Watkins, an accomplished author who says “The Imitation Of Christ had a most profound effect on my spiritual life”.
This new rendition uses modern and inclusive language yet remains faithful to the message of the original book.
Although you will be tempted to delve right into the devotions, be sure to read the Introduction to the book, as the history of The Imitation Of Christ is quite interesting. For instance, when Thomas A Kempkis originally penned this book, he avoided claiming authorship, writing:
Do not let the writer’s authority or learning – be it little or great – influence you, but let the love of pure truth attract you to read.
Do not ask, ‘Who said this?’ but pay attention to what is said.”
Reading The Imitation Of Christ is a very profound experience. The author – a Dutch religious cleric who lived from 1380 to 1471 – writes to us both as a disciple and as if Christ were speaking directly to us throughout this book.
I highly recommend that you read The Imitation Of Christ with highlighter, pen and journal in hand, so that you can record what God is saying to you during your devotional time.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
About James N. Watkins
James N. Watkins is an accomplished Christian author, speaker and humorist who wears many hats, but says, “the hats are what he does – not who he is”.
“Whether I succeed or fail in these jobs, I know my identity is secure in being an unconditionally loved child of God.”
You can read more about James at Hope & Humor.
Resources
For More Information
- Visit Jim’s Website.
- Connect with Jim on Facebook and Twitter.
- The Imitation Of Christ is available on Amazon.
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Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Worthy Publishing for review purposes. However, the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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Dropping by from SITS Blogging. I like devotionals. It helps me in my prayers and meditations that also deepen my faith.
Twitter: MaryHill16
says:
This book sounds like a fascinating read. I had not heard of the older version before. Thank you for sharing this educational post on Literacy Musing Mondays. Hope you have a wonderful week. 😉
Twitter: mommynificent
says:
I had no idea this was the second best seller in history! We read an excerpt on our small group a while back and I found it very inspiring! I’m going to check out this “today’s language” version!
Thanks so much for sharing this at Booknificent Thursday on Mommynificent.com this week!
Tina
I am embarrassed to say that I am unfamiliar with this devotional. Thanks for a great review!