# Against Vain Judgments of Men explained — The Imitation of Christ

> Chapter companion for The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis.

## What happens

The chapter advises the disciple to anchor his soul in God and not fear human judgment when his conscience is clear. It emphasizes trusting God over human opinions, using St. Paul as an example of one who committed all to God and defended himself with patience and humility. The disciple is reminded that human life is fleeting and that God alone is the true judge who will render to each according to their works.

## Themes in this chapter

### Contempt for the World

The chapter encourages disregard for human judgments and opinions, emphasizing the fleeting nature of human life and the ultimate authority of God.

### Humility and Self-Denial

The disciple is called to respond to unjust accusations with patience and humility, trusting in God rather than defending his own reputation.

## Character check-ins

### Jesus Christ

Addressed as 'My Son' throughout the chapter, providing divine counsel against fearing human judgment.

### St. Paul

Cited as an example of one who sought to please all men in the Lord yet was judged by man's judgment, and who committed all to God.

### The Disciple

The recipient of the counsel, encouraged to anchor his soul in God and not fear human judgment.

## Key lines

> My Son, anchor thy soul firmly upon God, and fear not man’s judgment, when conscience pronounceth thee pious and innocent.

My child, fix your soul securely on God, and do not be afraid of what people think when your conscience tells you that you are good and innocent.

_Opening exhortation to trust in God rather than human opinion._

> Who art thou, that thou shouldst be afraid of a man that shall die? Today he is, and tomorrow his place is not found.

Who are you to fear a mortal man? He is here today and gone tomorrow.

_Reminder of human mortality to diminish fear of human judgment._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_imitation_of_christ_se/chapters/xxxvi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_imitation_of_christ_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_imitation_of_christ_se/chapters