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Author:
Stalker, James

e-Sword Version:
9.x - 10.x

IMAGO CHRISTI

TABLE of CONTENTS

INTRO and PREFACE

INTRODUCTION

I. INTRODUCTORY: THOMAS A KEMPIS' Imitation of Christ
II. CHRIST IN THE HOME
III. CHRIST IN THE STATE
IV. CHRIST IN THE CHURCH
V. CHRIST AS A FRIEND
VI. CHRIST IN SOCIETY
VII. CHRIST AS A MAN OF PRAYER
VIII. CHRIST AS A STUDENT OF SCRIPTURE
IX. CHRIST AS A WORKER
X. CHRIST AS A SUFFERER
XI. CHRIST AS A PHILANTHROPIST
XII. CHRIST AS A WINNER OF SOULS
XIII. CHRIST AS A PREACHER
XIV. CHRIST AS A TEACHER
XV. CHRIST AS A CONTROVERSIALIST
XVI. CHRIST AS A MAN OF FEELING
XVII. CHRIST AS AN INFLUENCE

Summary of Imago Christi by James Stalker

Imago Christi, meaning "the Image of Christ," is a profound theological and spiritual exploration written by James Stalker that centers on the Christian's call to reflect the character and life of Jesus Christ. The book emphasizes that the ultimate goal of the Christian life is not merely theological knowledge or moral improvement but to become an embodiment of Christ’s image—both in character and conduct.

Stalker begins by asserting that Christ is the perfect model for humanity, illustrating that the ultimate purpose of the Christian life is to be transformed into His likeness. This transformation is not superficial but a deep, inner change that influences every aspect of a believer’s life—thoughts, motives, attitudes, and actions. The author stresses that this process is ongoing and requires deliberate effort, divine grace, and a committed heart.

A significant theme in the book is the idea that Christ’s life serves as a blueprint for believers. Stalker examines various facets of Christ’s character—His humility, love, patience, meekness, and obedience—and argues that these virtues should be progressively manifested in the lives of Christians. The author encourages believers to study Christ’s life carefully, not just as a historical figure but as the divine example they are called to emulate.

Stalker explores the means by which Christians can become more like Christ. He underscores the importance of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, which foster growth and facilitate the renewal of the inner person. Moreover, he emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in sanctification, guiding believers in their transformation and enabling them to live Christ-like lives.

Throughout the book, Stalker also emphasizes the importance of suffering and trials in shaping Christ’s image within believers. He notes that Christ’s humility and obedience were often cultivated through suffering, and similarly, believers can grow in Christlikeness through their own trials. These experiences serve to deepen faith, produce perseverance, and develop Christ’s virtues within the believer’s character.

Another key point in Imago Christi is the call to active service and love. Stalker advocates that Christ’s life was marked by selfless love and service to others, and that Christians should mirror this in their daily lives. Genuine imitation of Christ involves not only personal holiness but also active compassion and outreach to those in need.

Stalker concludes with a reflection on the hope of ultimate transformation. He reassures believers that as they cooperate with divine grace, they are gradually being conformed to Christ’s likeness, culminating in the glorification of the body and soul in eternity. The book encourages perseverance in faith and growth, emphasizing that becoming an “imago Christi” is a divine work that requires ongoing commitment.

In summary, Imago Christi by James Stalker is a compelling call for Christians to pursue a life patterned after Christ. It combines theological insight with practical guidance, urging believers to deepen their relationship with Christ and to manifest His virtues in their daily lives. The book remains a timeless reminder of the Christian aspiration to reflect the character of Jesus and live out His love in the world.

INTRODUCTORY: THOMAS A KEMPIS' IMITATION OF CHRIST

But Thomas A Kempis? -the name had come across her in her reading, and she felt the satisfaction, which everyone knows, of getting some ideas to attach to a name that strays solitary in the memory, She took up the little old clumsy book with some curiosity: it had the corners turned down in many places, and some hand, now for ever quiet, had made at certain passages strong pen-and-ink marks, long since browned by time. Maggie turned from leaf to leaf, and read where the quiet hand pointed . . . .

A strange thrill of awe passed through her while she read, as if she had been wakened in the night by a strain of solemn music, telling of beings whose souls had been astir while hers was in stupor. . . . She knew nothing of doctrines and systems-of mysticism or quietism; but this voice out of the far-off middle ages was the direct communication of a human soul's belief and experience, and came to her as an unquestioned message.

I suppose that is the reason why the small old-fashioned book, for which you need only pay sixpence at a bookstall, works miracles to this day, turning bitter waters into sweetness; while expensive sermons and treatises, newly issued, leave all things as they were before. It was written down by a hand that waited for the heart's prompting; it is the chronicle of a solitary, hidden anguish, struggle, trust, and triumph -not written on velvet cushions to teach endurance to those who are treading with bleeding feet on the stones. And so it remains to all time a lasting record of human needs and human consolations.

George Eliot : The Mill on the Floss.

　

Formatted by

David Cox 2008

dcox@davidcox.com.mx