Holiness (Abridged): Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots (Moody Classics) by J. C. Ryle

by J.C. Ryle

Paperback

Published January 1, 1726

About the author

(John Charles Ryle) Ryle started his ministry as curate at the Chapel of Ease in Exbury, Hampshire, moving on to become rector of St Thomas's, Winchester in 1843 and then rector of Helmingham, Suffolk the following year. While at Helmingham he married and was widowed twice. He began publishing popular tracts, and Matthew, Mark and Luke of his series of Expository Thoughts on the Gospels were published in successive years (1856-1858). His final parish was Stradbroke, also in Suffolk, where he moved in 1861, and it was as vicar of All Saints that he became known nationally for his straightforward preaching and firm defence of evangelical principles. He wrote several well-known and still-in-print books, often addressing issues of contemporary relevance for the Church from a biblical standpoint. He completed his Expository Thoughts on the Gospels while at Stradbroke, with his work on the Gospel of John (1869). His third marriage, to Henrietta Amelia Clowes in 1861, lasted until her death in 1889.

Reviews

[ME · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really mixed feelings about this. Read over the summer with a friend and had some challenging and meaningful conversations. This book forced me to apologize some of my doctrine fiercely which was a good exercise, but frustrating too. Ryle seems to have a complicated view of the relationship between works and faith that continually left me confused. The later chapters were ‘better’ than the first and if he had led with those I think I would be less confused overall. Still… a complicated read that I would not recommend to anyone but the seasoned and very well grounded believer. Often rich and beautiful, also deeply complicated.

[Isabelle Chambers]

Holiness
“No bolts or bars can keep out the devil”
“Fear of displeasing the one who cannot lie>fear of displeasing the world”
“How could you be happy if you weren’t holy on earth?”
“A religion that costs nothing is worth nothing”
Growth is marked by knowledge and love.
“Private religion must receive the first attention if we long for our souls to grow.”
“faith told Moses that when God says “go this way” it must be the best way”
Do not be a lingering Christian like lot. Look at your state of your soul.
“Lot did not keep one would from the gates of hell” this is very sobering
Be quick to see grace
“God’s timing is not our timing”
Do you practically know Christ? Is He your all?