The Imitation of Christ · Chapter
That all troubles are to be endured for the sake of eternal life explained
The chapter exhorts the disciple to endure all labors and tribulations for the sake of eternal life, promising that God's reward far exceeds any earthly suffering.
What happens
The chapter exhorts the disciple to endure all labors and tribulations for the sake of eternal life, promising that God's reward far exceeds any earthly suffering. It contrasts the fleeting nature of temporal hardships with the eternal peace, glory, and joy of heaven, urging the disciple to look to the example of the saints who now rejoice after their earthly conflicts.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and the Cross
The chapter directly addresses enduring labors, tribulations, and adversities for the sake of eternal life, framing suffering as a necessary path to glory.
Contempt for the World
The text contrasts the fleeting, sorrowful nature of earthly life with the eternal peace of heaven, encouraging disdain for worldly comforts and honors.
Love of God Above All
The promise of God's reward and the call to labor faithfully in His vineyard emphasize prioritizing divine love over temporal ease.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Speaker of the exhortation, addressing the disciple as 'My Son' and promising eternal reward.
- The Disciple
The recipient of the divine counsel, called to endure labors and tribulations faithfully.
- God the Father
Implied as the source of the Kingdom and the one whose reward is promised.
- St. Paul
Referenced indirectly through the quotation 'Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?' (Romans 7:24).
- David
Referenced indirectly through the quotation 'Woe is me, for my sojourning is prolonged' (Psalm 120:5-6).
Key passages
“My Son, let not the labours which thou hast undertaken for Me break thee down, nor let tribulations cast thee down in any wise, but let my promise strengthen and comfort thee in every event.”
Do not be discouraged by the hard work you do for Me, nor let troubles overwhelm you; instead, let My promise give you strength and comfort in all circumstances.
Christ directly encourages the disciple to rely on divine promises rather than succumb to despair.
“Oh, if thou sawest the unfading crowns of the Saints in heaven, and with what great glory they now rejoice, who aforetime were reckoned by this world contemptibly and as it were unworthy of life, truly thou wouldst immediately humble thyself even to the earth, and wouldst desire rather to be in subjection to all, than to have authority over one.”
If you could see the eternal crowns and glory of the saints in heaven—those who were once despised by the world—you would instantly humble yourself and prefer to serve everyone rather than rule over anyone.
The passage uses the vision of heavenly reward to motivate humility and submission.