Book Discussion Outline: The Imitation of Christ by Thomas Kempis

Chapter 1: Thoughts Helpful in the Life of the Soul

1. What does Kempis mean when he says that our thoughts should be directed towards God?
2. How can we guard our hearts and minds against worldly distractions?
3. What is the connection between our thoughts and our actions?

Chapter 2: The Interior Life

1. According to Kempis, what is the “interior life”?
2. Why is it important to cultivate a rich inner life, rather than focusing solely on external actions?
3. How can we cultivate a deeper relationship with God in our hearts and minds?

Chapter 3: Internal Consolation

1. What is the role of consolation in the Christian life, according to Kempis?
2. How can we find comfort and peace in God during times of difficulty and suffering?
3. What are some of the dangers of relying too much on external sources of comfort and consolation?

Chapter 4: An Invitation to Holy Communion

1. What is the significance of Holy Communion in the Christian life?
2. How can we prepare ourselves to receive the Eucharist in a worthy manner?
3. What are some of the benefits of regular participation in the sacraments?

Chapter 5: On the Love of Jesus Above All Things

1. What does Kempis mean when he says that we should love Jesus above all things?
2. How can we cultivate a deeper love for Christ in our lives?
3. What are some of the obstacles that can prevent us from loving Jesus fully?

Chapter 6: On the Intimate Friendship of Jesus

1. What does it mean to have an intimate friendship with Jesus?
2. How can we deepen our friendship with Christ?
3. What are some of the benefits of having a close relationship with Jesus?

Chapter 7: On the Humble Submission of Ourselves to Jesus Christ

1. What does it mean to submit ourselves to Jesus Christ?
2. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility in our lives?
3. What are some of the benefits of submitting ourselves to Christ?

Chapter 8: On the Necessity of Self-Denial

1. What is the role of self-denial in the Christian life?
2. How can we practice self-denial in a healthy and balanced way?
3. What are some of the benefits of self-denial?

Chapter 9: On the Avoidance of Flattery

1. What is flattery, and why is it dangerous?
2. How can we guard ourselves against the temptation to flatter others?
3. What are some of the benefits of speaking honestly and truthfully?

Chapter 10: On the Love of Solitude and Silence

1. Why is solitude and silence important in the Christian life?
2. How can we cultivate a deeper love for solitude and silence in our lives?
3. What are some of the benefits of spending time alone with God?

Chapter 11: On the Liking of Good and Evil Speaking

1. Why is it important to guard our tongues and speak words of kindness and truth?
2. How can we avoid the temptation to engage in gossip or negative speech?
3. What are some of the benefits of speaking words of encouragement and love?

Chapter 12: On the Importance of the Acquisition of Peace and Zeal for Perfection

1. What is the connection between peace and zeal for perfection?
2. How can we cultivate a spirit of peace in our lives?
3. What are some of the benefits of striving for perfection in our spiritual lives?