Tauler, John (c. 1300-1361)

Catholic Encyclopedia, Volume 14: Simony-Tournon -- from Herbermann, Charles George (1840-1916)

Tauler, John (c. 1300-1361) -- from Wikipedia Article

John Tauler -- from The New Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge

Following of Christ

Description: Following of Christ instructs Christians to follow the selfless life of poverty demonstrated by Jesus Christ. Tauler describes poverty as the adherence to God's authority over any earthly desire. God has created us as free individuals with the power and capacity to choose a life of service to Him. Tauler teaches Christians how to set aside material interests and instead seek God inwardly. When we surrender ourselves freely to God, He transforms us internally, giving us the grace to perform godly works. Once we have freed ourselves from earthly burdens, we are able to receive divine truth. Following of Christ is both spiritually and intellectually fulfilling. All audience will be enriched by the practical wisdom in Tauler's words.

Emmalon Davis
CCEL Staff Writer

History and Life of the Reverend Doctor John Tauler with Twenty-Five of his Sermons (Author)

Description: John Tauler was a German Dominican mystic living in the 14th century. He is known as one of the Friends of God, an informal group of Catholic mystics who strove to deepen both their communal relationship as well as their inner spirituality. Tauler was a leader of this group. His sermons demonstrated his mastery of combining the mystical with the concrete, the spiritual with the practical. 25 of his sermons are included in this volume. He also taught that each human has a desire for God which is satisfied through detachment from earthly things. Also in this volume is a biography of Tauler, which allows readers to gain better insight into this ancient religious man's life and work.

Abby Zwart
CCEL Staff Writer

Inner Way (Author)

Description: A 14th century Dominican, John Tauler was a renowned preacher of the middle ages. Although not as speculative or poetic as some of his contemporaries, Tauler's sermons are among the noblest, showing his gift for clearly expressing spiritual truths. Inner Way is a collection of his festival sermons. Often called a Christian mystic, Tauler emphasized the "blessed contemplation" of God. However, his emphasis on divine contemplation was always tempered with practical advice for daily Christian living. Inner Way is consequently a true gem. It is historically valuable, spiritually enriching, and ideal for the liturgical season. Many believers--including Martin Luther--have found these sermons engaging and instructive. They are well worth the read.

Tim Perrine
CCEL Staff Writer

Light, Life, and Love (Author of section)

Description: This book has everything a reader needs to explore the world of German mysticism. William Inge begins with an introduction of histories, biographies, and summaries of the movement, and his scholarly articles will prove useful for the student of mysticism. Then he includes in the book many examples of the writings of the 14th century Dominicans, the Friends of God. These friends were an informal group of Catholics who strove to deepen both their communal relationships as well as their inner spirituality. Eckhardt, Tauler, and Suso were the major proponents of this theology, and each is represented in Inge's collection. This book is a unique and convenient volume that will assist readers interested in the fascinating movement of German mysticism.

Abby Zwart
CCEL Staff Writer

Meditations on the Life and Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Description: In his series of 45 meditations, John Tauler reflects upon the many stages of Jesus' ministry and passion. Tauler begins his mediations with a confession, in which he asks the Lord to open his heart and cleanse him from his unrighteousness so that he might be worthy to praise God's name. Throughout his meditations, Tauler shares the painful, yet redemptive, details of Christ's last days on Earth, from the washing of His disciple's feet to His final words on the cross. Tauler's meditations offer Christians a vivid illustration of Christ's sacrifice for us, encouraging us to draw near to Him. Meditations of the Life and Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ is an excellent resource for Christians who are striving to emulate the compassionate qualities of Christ--humility, grace, and forgiveness.

Emmalon Davis
CCEL Staff Writer