Category Archives: Faith

Week 52 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 52 Discussion Notes:1

  1. In Chapter 16, Kempis reminds us that God knows everything about us. We come to him in prayer for comfort and relief. Does the fact that God knows everything about you give you comfort or cause you concern? (Day 358 & 363)
  2. The Roman Catholic Church and many other denominations and church groups specify that fermented (alcoholic) wine be used in Holy Communion. However, many churches either permit or require the use of non-alcoholic wine–grape juice. (Day 361)
  3. In Chapter 17, Kempis proclaims the importance of our giving God all of our praise. Is this approach practical or appropriate in today’s society? (Day 362 & 363)
  4. In the final chapter of the Imitation of Christ, Kempis wrote, it is a mistake to assume a human mind will be able to fully understand God, or the Holy Communion. Scrutinizing the sacrament too closely inevitably leads to doubt, rather than a greater understanding. (Day 365)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 16 : We Should Show Our Needs to Christ and Ask His Grace (December 24, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 17 : The Burning Love and Strong Desire to Receive Christ (December 27, 2013)
  3. Book 4 , Chapter 18 : Man Should Not Scrutinize This Sacrament in Curiosity, But Humbly Imitate Christ and Submit Reason to Holy Faith (December 31, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 51 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 51 Discussion Notes:1

  1. Some churches and denominations have historically celebrated “the Lords Supper” or “Agape Meal” as a related, but separate event from the Eucharist. Do you find any compelling Biblical reason for this practice? (Day 351)
  2. In Chapter 15, Kempis further recommends the importance of devotion to Christ. What are are some Biblical examples of devotion? How does your personal devotion to God compare? (Day 353 & 355)
  3. Some communion “bread” bears little resemblance to what we usually think of as “bread.” What type of bread is appropriate for the Eucharist? Does the Bible give us any direction? (Day 356)
  4. People have argued for centuries about the origins of our Christmas holiday and it’s customs. It’s been said that Christians ought not be faulted so much for stealing the pagans’ holiday, as for letting the pagans steal their holiday back. In fact, atheists and pop culture have managed to create a “winter holiday,” formerly known as Christmas, that is completely independent of any real reference to the birth of Jesus Christ. (Day 359)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 14 : The Ardent Longing of Devout Men for the Body of Christ (December 18, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 15 : The Grace of Devotion is Acquired Through Humility and Self-Denial (December 21, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 50 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 50 Discussion Notes:1

  1. Should we construe Christ’s Words in John 13:14-15Open Link in New Window as instructions to wash one another’s feet, in as similar manner as we partake of Holy Communion? (Day 344)
    If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.   [15]  For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you
  2. Kempis wrote in Chapter 12 of Book 4 of The Imitation of Christ that one must prepare one’s heart for Christ, as one would prepare one’s home for an honored guest. How do you prepare for guests? How do you prepare your heart for Communion? (Day 345 & 346)
  3. What role, if any, should the church take in determining who is permitted to partake of Holy Communion? (Day 347)
  4. Have you ever refrained from assisting another person on the grounds that you did not want to get involved, or were afraid of possible negative consequences
    arising from your assistance? If so, were you justified, in view of the the parable of the good Samaritan? Are you ever justified in refraining from rendering assistance, when doing so seems dangerous or foolish? (Day 350)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 12 : The Communicant Should Prepare Himself for Christ with Great Care (December 11, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 13 : With All Her Heart the Devout Soul Should Desire Union with Christ in the Sacrement (December 14, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 49 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 49 Discussion Notes:1

  1. What purpose does the “Examination” serve, prior to taking communion? What are the arguments for and against either examination by the church; or self examination? (Day 337)
  2. In Chapter 10 of THE IMITATION OF CHRIST, Kempis warns us to be vigilant in preparing for Communion; but in THE LITTLE KEMPIS, he warns against being so cautious as to miss the benefits of taking Communion. How do you stike a balance between these two concerns? (Day 338 & 339)
  3. In chapter 11 of THE IMITATION OF CHRIST, Kempis referred to the two physical needs we require, food and light. Do you agree these needs are directly analogous to our spiritual needs by which we are fed and illuminated–communion and the Word of God? (Day 342)
  4. According to John Wesley, a good conscience is one which causes no offense. In order to have a clear conscience, we need to have a correct understanding of God’s Word. Is it possible to walk according to God’s will, if we don’t know his Word. (Day 342)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 10 : Do Not Lightly Forego Holy Communion (December 4, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 11 : The Body of Christ and Sacred Scripture Are Most Necessary to a Faithful Sole (December 6, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 48 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 48 Discussion Notes:1

  1. In Chapter 8, Kempis wrote that if we wish to be Christ’s disciple, we must offer ourselves to Him with all our heart. Devotion to Christ isn’t so hard at church, or where other Christians congregate. It is quite another thing to show one’s devotion to Christ in places where God is disrespected or hated. (Day 331 & 332)
  2. What does the Bible say about hypocrisy? Do you imagine that God appreciates hypocrisy any more than you do? (Day 332)
  3. In Chapter 9, Kempis wrote, in the voice of the Disciple, “What can I do for all my sins but humbly confess and lament them, and implore Your mercy without ceasing?” Indeed, what else can we do but confess and lament them? We know the strong terms in which God condemns sin (Day 334 and 335)
  4. How much would you sacrifice for another person? Does the gender, age, or relationship to you make a difference? (If so, why?) How much would you sacrifice for God? (Day 336)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 8 : The Offering of Christ on the Cross; Our Offering (November 27, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 9 : We Should Offer Ourselves and All That We Have to God, Praying for All (November 30, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 47 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 47 Discussion Notes:1

  1. In some Christian traditions, a part of the service of Holy Communion is referred to as “The Great Thanksgiving.” Is there any relationship between this “Great Thanksgiving” and the autumn holiday in the USA, referred to as “Thanksgiving?” (Day 323)
  2. In Chapter 6, Kempis expressed his anxiety in preparing for the Eucharist. What is the appropriate preparation for Holy Communion? (Day 324)
  3. Kempis wrote in Chapter 7 that we should approach Communion with “suppliant reverence.” Does this mean we shouldn’t be joking around as we accept Communion? (Day 327)
  4. Kempis urges us in INSTRUCTIONS FOR RELIGIOUS to approach God with a contrite heart. What does this mean, and is it REALLY important? (Day 328)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 6 : An Inquiry on the Proper Thing to Do Before Communion (November 20, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 7 : The Examination of Conscience and the Resolution to Amend (November 23, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 46 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 46 Discussion Notes:1

IMPORTANT NOTE: Our goal in this lesson is not to convince others of the correctness of our personal view or denomination; but to understand what the different views on some aspects of Holy Communion are.

  1. Christians have spent centuries in arguing about their DIFFERENT beliefs in how (if) Christ is present at Holy Communion. What are some SIMILARITIES in what Christians generally believe about Christ’s presense at the Eucharist? (Day 307 & 316)
  2. Chapter 4 speaks of the blessings of one who receives communion worthily. How does one receive communion worthily? (Day 317 & 318)
  3. Kempis wrote in INSTRUCTIONS FOR RELIGIOUS, “Don’t be concerned about other people’s business, beyond what is necessary to provide for your neighbors’ material needs in charity; or to testify to them as to the glory of God.” Is this an “unfriendly” attitute for our relationships with other people? (Day 319)
  4. In chapter 5, Kempis wrote that only the priests have the authority to lead the Eucharist. What are the points for and against permitting only clergy to administer Holy Communion? (Days 320 and 321)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 4 : Many Blessings Are Given Those Who Receive Communion Worthily (November 13, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 5 : The Dignity of the Sacrament and of the Priesthood (November 16, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 45 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 45 Discussion Notes:1

  1. Kempis wrote in SOLILOQUY OF THE SOUL there is none like God in Heaven, or on earth, in beauty and glory, riches and power. Do you agree? Does the world give God the honor He is due? (Day 309)
  2. What are the circumstances and contexts in which the Bible refers to bread? Which references have relevance to Christ’s body in the Eucharist? (Day 315)
  3. In chapter 2, Kempis refers to the bread of the Eucharist as “Bread of Angels.” Psalms 78:24-25Open Link in New Window uses the same phrase to describe the manna God sent to sustain the Hebrews for forty years in the dessert. Is there a relationship between the bread (manna), which God gave the Hebrews to sustain their bodies and the bread of the Eucharist which God gives us to sustain us spiritually? (Days 309 & 310)
  4. What role does (should) Holy Communion play in the role of a child growing into an adult? (Day 314)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 2 : God’s Great Goodness and Love is Shown to Man in This Sacrament (November 6, 2013)
  2. Book 4 , Chapter 3 : It Is Profitable to Receive Communion Often (November 9, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 44 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 44 Discussion Notes:1

  1. Week 44 begins with Book Four of The Imitation of Christ: “An Invitation to Holy Communion.” Some readers may be surprised that Goodwin (a nineteenth century Bishop in the Church of England) could not find very much to offend Protestants in the treatment which Thomas à Kempis (a medieval Roman Catholic monk) gives the subject of the Eucharist. (Day 301)
  2. The Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church provides guidance for preparation for Communion. How do you prepare to receive Holy Communion? (Day 302)
  3. In chapter 1, Kempis argues that many people take Communion lightly, because it is offered so often. Do you agree? Is the solution to offer Holy Communion less frequently? (Day 304)
  4. Rev. Dibdin preached that the act of Holy Communion is primarily about our communion with Jesus Christ. All other trappings of the sacrament–the clergy, the bread, and the wine–are really of secondary importance. (Day 305).
  5. What is Transubstantiation? (Day 307)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 4 , Chapter 1 : The Great Reverence With Which We Should Receive Christ (October 30, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩

Week 43 : Imitate Christ, Weekly Study Guide

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Week 43 Discussion Notes:1

  1. Kempis wrote in INSTRUCTIONS FOR RELIGIOUS, “When you become too curious, or covet what you do not possess, you risk your soul. For the sake of Christ, be satisfied with plain clothing and simple food. Don’t chase after the shiny new things this world offers. Christ loves a pure heart, not what fancy or expensive clothes you wear.” But, isn’t this just the kind of talk that scares people away from wanting to be Christian? (Day 295)
  2. In chapter 58, Kempis cautioned us to not over-analyze those things which are known only to the God of the Universe. How do you reconcile this advice with the natural desire to discover what is unknown? (Days 295 through 297)
  3. One of Satan’s tricks to to try to make us question God’s judgment. Should we follow God, even when we do not understand Him. (Days 296 & 297)
  4. Kempis wrote in Chapter 59 that we can trust ALL of our hopes and troubles to God. Would you rather substitue the word “MOST” for “ALL?” (Day 299)

These study notes are for a year long study of The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis. The text for this Bible Study is Imitate Christ, by T. Alan Truex. Call Tom Truex, or use the CONTACT tab at K-Line.ORG to get more information.

The discussion for this week will focus on the Chapters listed below, from The Imitation of Christ, by Thomas à Kempis.2

All items listed below are online at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Book 3 , Chapter 58 : High Matters and the Hidden Judgments of God Are Not to Be Scrutinized (October 23, 2013)
  2. Book 3 , Chapter 59 : All Hope and Trust Are to Be Fixed In God Alone (October 26, 2013)

Also Posted this Week at ImitateChrist.ORG:

  1. Challoner’s Reflections3 on The Imitation of Christ for each of the above chapters.

Footnotes:

  1. References to days are from the Imitate Christ Study Guide ↩
  2. The dates listed are the dates the chapters were posted online, which also corresponds to the suggested reading plan in the study guide. ↩
  3. Right Rev. R. Challoner, D.D., V.A., Imitation of Christ, Dublin: McGlashan and Gill, 1873 ↩