Holiness

J. C. Ryle's classic guide for Christians, wherein he outlines the principles of sin, sanctification, spiritual growth and the importance of Christ is published here complete.

The spiritual excellence displayed in J. C. Ryle's writings cannot be underestimated: a lengthy introduction tells us the seven aspirations which Ryle holds when teaching his fellow Christian. Delving into great detail to explain each aim, and supporting his statements by citing scripture, the author displays an impressive devotion both to the Lord and to all believers who choose to read his words.

This manual is arranged according to topics; the first chapter focuses exclusively upon sin, the second on sanctification, the third on holiness, and so on. By concentrating on a single topic at a time, Ryle is able to offer detail and profundity in a way more diffuse or expansive texts might not.

Additionally, we also witness character studies of Moses and Lot:

Moses is identified as being foremost among God's saints, standing among the best examples of men ever lived. His surrender of a high ranked position, his abstentious attitude to worldly pleasures and wealth, and his opting for an ascetic life full of hardships and pain in service of the Lord are mentioned. Moses' followers were despised by others, yet he took up and ultimately proved their cause.

When examining Lot, Ryle highlights the determined beliefs of Lot, and his ultimate desire to live a holy life. Dispelling attitudes of Lot being somehow wretched or unholy, Ryle describes Lot as a 'Beacon', and notes that the Holy Ghost affirmed Lot's righteousness. Ryle then, passage by passage, examines and discusses the story of Lot that readers may understand the depth of his character.

In the later portions of this book, the author turns to the character of Jesus Christ. Ryle specifically outlines a number of traits and events in the life of the savior, His willingness to save sinners, His capacity to set an example of supreme devotion, and the wisdom of the parables delivered to His followers. In all, Ryle delivers a detailed and immense profile of Jesus and His importance to all Christians.

This edition includes all of Ryle's original twenty chapters, together with an appendix which includes poignant extracts from earlier Christian authors.

J. C. RYLE (1816-1900) was appointed as the first bishop of Liverpool in 1880 and was the leader of the Evangelical Party in the Church of England for more than half a century. He is highly regarded for his plain and lively writings on practical and spiritual themes; their usefulness and impact have been consistently recognized and remain as wise and relevant today as when he first wrote them.