W.R. Inge emphasizes the value of having one master who embodies a life of wisdom and virtue over a thousand masters who are experts in reading and knowledge. He points out that while seeking a master in scriptures may lead one to prestigious institutions like Paris and high learning schools, true guidance on living a perfect life can only be found in someone with a simple and pure nature.

W.R. Inge challenges the congregation to question why they seek after dead bones instead of pursuing living holiness, which offers everlasting life. He emphasizes that the dead have nothing to offer, neither can they take away, highlighting the futility of seeking fulfillment in lifeless pursuits.

W.R. Inge delves into the history of mysticism, highlighting the evolution of German mysticism from the era of Thomas a Kempis to the strong revival during the thirteenth century. He discusses the rise of charitable orders like the Beguines and Beghards, emphasizing their intense inward religion and the conflicts they faced with the secular clergy. Inge also explores the heretical mystical sects of the thirteenth century, showcasing the various dangers of mysticism, from extreme beliefs to anti-sacramentalism and determinism. He contrasts these sects with the orthodox mystical school represented by scholars like Richard of St. Victor and Bonaventura, who focused on the psychology of the contemplative life and the ascent to contemplation.

W.R. Inge delves into the life and teachings of Meister Eckhart, a prominent philosopher-mystic born in Thuringia. Eckhart's journey in the Dominican Order led him to various leadership roles, including preaching in Strassburg and Cologne. Despite his popularity among devout women and the mystical movement, Eckhart faced accusations of heresy and was posthumously condemned for several erroneous teachings, leading to a long neglect of his writings until a revival in the 19th century.

W.R. Inge preaches about Eckhart's teachings on the Godhead, emphasizing the unity and diversity within the Trinity, the eternal nature of God's creation, and the process of detachment from worldly desires to be united with God. Eckhart's focus on love as the principle of all virtues, the importance of humility, and the need for detachment from creatures to find blessedness are highlighted. The sermon also delves into the ethical implications of Eckhart's mysticism, cautioning against dreamy inactivity and Antinomianism, and stressing the balance between contemplation and works of charity.

W.R. Inge delves into the teachings of mystics like Eckhart, Luther, and Jacob Bšhme, emphasizing the importance of seeking Christ in the innermost sanctuary of our personal life. The mystics highlight the need for Christ to be not just given for us, but given into us, requiring a reenactment of the process of redemption in the inner life of every Christian. They stress the significance of emptying oneself of self-seeking and self-will to allow God to reign in the soul, ultimately leading to divine immanence and a foretaste of heaven on earth.

W.R. Inge discusses the religious teachings of German mystics, particularly focusing on John Tauler and his successors Tauler, Suso, and Ruysbroek. Tauler, born around 1300, was influenced by Eckhart's sermons and led a life dedicated to study, preaching, and pastoral work. He had a close relationship with Margaret Ebner, a renowned visionary. Tauler's response to the Papal decree during the great interdict of 1329 remains a topic of debate, but his impact on mysticism and spirituality is undeniable.

W.R. Inge discusses the life and writings of Henry Suso, a poet and saint born in 1295. Suso's autobiography portrays a vivid romance of saintship, showcasing his whole-hearted devotion to Divine Wisdom and the beauty of his visions. Despite some disturbing accounts of self-inflicted sufferings and erotic symbolism in his visions, Suso's work remains a delightful read. Inge addresses the debate on the pathological side of mysticism, emphasizing that the value of religious experiences should not be dismissed due to the personal struggles of religious figures. He concludes that despite Suso's challenges and imperfections, his writings have the power to deeply impact readers, stirring emotions of love, enlightenment, repentance, and spiritual renewal.

W.R. Inge delves into 'Theologia Germanica,' a profound treatise from the fourteenth century by an unknown author associated with the Gottesfreunde in Germany. This work, influenced by the German mystical school of Eckhart, explores speculative mysticism and devout spirituality akin to Thomas a Kempis. The author's deep religious insights make this treatise a must-read for all seeking profound devotional works, showcasing the essence of religious philosophy.

W.R. Inge discusses the revival of interest in mystical writers in modern thought, highlighting the influence of philosophers like Fechner and Bradley, as well as the popularity of Maeterlinck's mystical works. The sermon delves into the study of the religious faculty by the growing science of psychology, focusing on personal experiences and phenomena of conversion. Despite differing views between metaphysicians and psychologists, there is a common desire for a mystical basis of religious belief rooted in human experience, emphasizing the importance of the God-consciousness in inner life.

W.R. Inge delves into the psychology of religion, exploring the mystical experiences and teachings found in recent American books. These teachings emphasize the importance of constant connection with God, the power of intuition in revealing divine truths, and the practice of meditation for healing and spiritual enlightenment. While cautioning against superstition and false lights, Inge predicts a revival of mystical religion in America, akin to the medieval movement in Germany, with philosophical speculations and evangelistic efforts leading individuals to seek the kingdom of God within themselves.

W.R. Inge delves into the ineffable nature of God, emphasizing that human language and understanding fall short in describing His essence. Inge challenges conventional notions by stating that God transcends qualities like goodness and wisdom, asserting that He is beyond the concepts of good, better, and best. He echoes St. Augustine's wisdom that silence is the best approach when discussing God, as human words often lead to falsehood and sin when describing the divine. Inge also presents a unique perspective by portraying God not only as a Father but also as a Mother to all creation, sustaining and nurturing His creatures to prevent them from falling back into nothingness.

W.R. Inge emphasizes that true comfort and fulfillment can only be found in God, as all earthly comforts are temporary and lacking. He highlights that God's comfort is complete and without any deficiencies, unlike the comforts offered by the world. Inge points out that all the perfections found in creation are united in God, who surpasses all understanding and comparison. He illustrates that the fullness of God cannot be expressed by the abundance of creatures, just as a drop of water cannot encapsulate the vastness of the sea.

W.R. Inge emphasizes that although coming to God may seem difficult and challenging at first, once a person commits to the journey, life becomes lighter, happier, and more desirable. God eagerly desires to be with us and lead us closer to Him if we are willing to follow. Despite our unpreparedness, God is always ready and near, waiting for us to draw near to Him. The prophet's words highlight the path to true freedom of the spirit, becoming one with God. Inge prays for God's help as we strive to follow this path and be brought closer to Him.

W.R. Inge preaches about the importance of intelligence and will in man, highlighting how the soul's simple work is more beautiful when God works in it. He emphasizes the need for understanding the one work God does in the soul, which is better than anything in the world, leading to the union between God and the soul. Inge stresses that every gift from God prepares the soul for the ultimate gift of Himself, and through grace, anyone can unite their will with God's will, reaching perfection with God's help.

W.R. Inge emphasizes that true perfection in one's will is achieved when it aligns with the will of God, surpassing personal desires and ambitions. The more our will is molded by God's will, the more genuine and flawless it becomes, enabling us to accomplish all things through Him.

W.R. Inge emphasizes the importance of accepting God's will in all circumstances, trusting that what God gives to those who seek to do His will is always the very best, even if it may not seem so at first. He encourages the congregation to desire the glory of God above all else, finding pleasure and satisfaction in whatever God ordains, whether it be sickness, poverty, or any other trial. Inge reminds listeners that true love for God is reflected in finding joy in pleasing Him and aligning their will with His, leading to perfect peace and contentment.

W.R. Inge emphasizes that men who love God do not complain about their sufferings; instead, they see their suffering as small compared to God's will for them. Their blessedness lies in suffering according to God's will. Inge highlights that when a man bears suffering for God's sake, God transforms it into something light and sweet, bringing love and comfort. He explains that true suffering is noble and a mother of all virtues, suggesting that if there was anything more noble than suffering, God would have used it for mankind's redemption.

W.R. Inge preaches about deadly sin as a death of the soul, separating us from God who is the life of the soul, causing unrest in the heart, sickness of the faculties, blindness of the senses, and a loss of all graces. He emphasizes that every creature must abide in God, as falling out of His mercy leads to falling into His justice, highlighting the madness of not wanting to be with God, without whom we cannot exist.

W.R. Inge shares a powerful story about a man seeking the way of truth and encountering a poor man who exemplifies unwavering faith and contentment in God's will, regardless of circumstances. The poor man's perspective challenges the listener to embrace gratitude, acceptance, and surrender to God's will in all situations, even in the face of potential suffering or hardship, ultimately prioritizing a deep relationship with God above all else.

W.R. Inge preaches about the importance of carrying God with us in all circumstances, emphasizing that when we submit our will entirely to God, He is united with us in all our purposes and designs, making us unstoppable. In every situation, whether in solitude or among a crowd, we should strive to maintain a constant connection with God in our minds, will, and affections. True peace and unity come from having God with us at all times, allowing us to navigate through life's challenges without being hindered by anyone or anything.

W.R. Inge emphasizes the power of sincere and fervent prayer as a divine connection between man and God, likening it to a golden ladder that leads to heaven. He stresses that effective prayer should focus on seeking God's glory, one's spiritual growth, and the well-being of others, rather than solely on personal desires. In requesting material blessings, it is essential to align with God's will and spiritual benefit, while prayers for virtues require no conditions as they are God's own work.

W.R. Inge preaches about the challenge of practicing universal love and loving our neighbors as ourselves, as commanded by the Lord. Despite the difficulty of this commandment, there is a greater reward attached to it than any other. While it may seem hard to follow, the precious reward that comes with obeying this commandment is worth the effort.

W.R. Inge preaches about the transformative power of love as the ultimate way to surrender to God completely. By turning to this love, one becomes a willing prisoner to God, offering every part of their being to Him. Overcoming the flesh and worldly temptations is best achieved through love, which is described as strong as death and as unyielding as hell, separating all things from the soul that are not God-like. The more one embraces this divine love and becomes a prisoner to it, the more they will experience true freedom, guided by the love of God.

W.R. Inge preaches about the misconception surrounding God's judgment on the last day, emphasizing that every individual will pronounce their own sentence based on their essence revealed during their lifetime, which will determine their eternal state.