Obedience and Subjection
True peace of mind can only be found through humble obedience to the rule of authority.
Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of humble obedience to authority, stating that it is safer to be subject than to command. He highlights that true peace of mind can only be found through wholehearted submission for the love of God, rather than from necessity. Kempis warns against seeking happiness in change and different places, as true rest can only be found in obedient humility. He encourages listeners to be open to listening to the opinions of others, even if it means setting aside their own for the sake of peace and love for God.
Text
IT IS a very great thing to obey, to live under a superior and not to be one's own master, for it is much safer to be subject than it is to command. Many live in obedience more from necessity than from love. Such become discontented and dejected on the slightest pretext; they will never gain peace of mind unless they subject themselves wholeheartedly for the love of God.
Go where you may, you will find no rest except in humble obedience to the rule of authority. Dreams of happiness expected from change and different places have deceived many.
Everyone, it is true, wishes to do as he pleases and is attracted to those who agree with him. But if God be among us, we must at times give up our opinions for the blessings of peace.
Furthermore, who is so wise that he can have full knowledge of everything? Do not trust too much in your own opinions, but be willing to listen to those of others. If, though your own be good, you accept another's opinion for love of God, you will gain much more merit; for I have often heard that it is safer to listen to advice and take it than to give it. It may happen, too, that while one's own opinion may be good, refusal to agree with others when reason and occasion demand it, is a sign of pride and obstinacy.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Obedience
- Obedience is safer than commanding
- Many live in obedience out of necessity, not love
Key Quotes
“It is much safer to be subject than it is to command.” — Thomas a Kempis
“Go where you may, you will find no rest except in humble obedience to the rule of authority.” — Thomas a Kempis
“It may happen, too, that while one's own opinion may be good, refusal to agree with others when reason and occasion demand it, is a sign of pride and obstinacy.” — Thomas a Kempis
Application Points
- Practice humble obedience to the rule of authority to find peace of mind.
- Be willing to listen to others and accept their opinions for the love of God.
- Do not trust too much in your own opinions, but be open to advice from others.