The Vain Judgments of Men
Thomas a Kempis encourages listeners to trust in God and not fear the judgment of men, reminding them that God's judgment is ultimate and just.
Thomas a Kempis preaches about trusting firmly in the Lord and not fearing the judgment of men, emphasizing the importance of humility, patience, and trusting in God's judgment rather than in the opinions of others. He encourages believers to focus on pleasing God rather than trying to satisfy everyone, reminding them that mortal man's opinions are fleeting while God's judgment is eternal. Kempis urges listeners to keep their eyes on God, not getting entangled in quarrels or being afraid of the words or actions of others, as God is the ultimate judge who will reward each person according to their deeds.
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THE VOICE OF CHRIST
MY CHILD, trust firmly in the Lord, and do not fear the judgment of men when conscience tells you that you are upright and innocent. For it is good and blessed to suffer such things, and they will not weigh heavily on the humble heart that trusts in God rather than in itself. Many men say many things, and therefore little faith is to be put in them.
Likewise, it is impossible to satisfy all men. Although Paul tried to please all in the Lord, and became all things to all men, yet he made little of their opinions. He labored abundantly for the edification and salvation of others, as much as lay in him and as much as he could, but he could not escape being sometimes judged and despised by others. Therefore, he committed all to God Who knows all things, and defended himself by his patience and humility against the tongues of those who spoke unjustly or thought foolish things and lies, or made accusations against him. Sometimes, indeed, he did answer them, but only lest his silence scandalize the weak.
Who are you, then, that you should be afraid of mortal man? Today he is here, tomorrow he is not seen. Fear God and you will not be afraid of the terrors of men. What can anyone do to you by word or injury? He hurts himself rather than you, and no matter who he may be he cannot escape the judgment of God. Keep God before your eyes, therefore, and do not quarrel with peevish words.
If it seems, then, that you are worsted and that you suffer undeserved shame, do not repine over it and do not lessen your crown by impatience. Look instead to heaven, to Me, Who have power to deliver you from all disgrace and injury, and to render to everyone according to his works.
Sermon Outline
- The Vanity of Human Judgment
- The Futility of Trying to Please Everyone
- Fear God, not Man
- Looking to Heaven for Deliverance
- Heavenly deliverance is possible
- God rewards the righteous and punishes the wicked
Key Quotes
“Many men say many things, and therefore little faith is to be put in them.” — Thomas a Kempis
“Fear God and you will not be afraid of the terrors of men.” — Thomas a Kempis
“Look instead to heaven, to Me, Who have power to deliver you from all disgrace and injury, and to render to everyone according to his works.” — Thomas a Kempis
Application Points
- Trust in God and not in human opinion, even when faced with criticism or judgment.
- Maintain humility and patience in the face of adversity, committing all to God's care.
- Focus on pleasing God, rather than seeking human approval or recognition.