This week the blog is sponsored by Evangelical Press, an imprint of 10Publishing. You can take a closer look, and purchase the new Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospelshere (UK), here (CA) or here (US).
“It would be well if professing Christians in modern days studied the four gospels more than they do.” – J.C. Ryle, Holiness (1889)
Introducing: J.C. Ryle’s Expository Thoughts on the Gospels (Modernised)
Without a doubt, J.C. Ryle has had an outstanding impact on the lives of countless believers. Ryle’s series on the Gospels, in particular, has been invaluable company to numerous Christians delving into the life of Jesus over the decades. First published between 1856 and 1869, these seven volumes will be among the most battered, spine-cracked, corner-folded, underlined, and coffee-stained on many shelves; remaining as fresh and relevant today as ever.
Why dive into the gospels?
Born in 1816, J.C Ryle grew up in Cheshire. As a 21-year-old, he stumbled upon a church that preached the good news of Jesus, and his life was forever changed. Ryle lived the rest of his days proclaiming the gospel through preaching and also writing to rebuke and encourage the wider church. The last twenty years of his life was spent as the first Anglican bishop of Liverpool where he led the cause to build churches and mission halls to reach the ever-growing city with the gospel.
Ryle wanted nothing more than for people – Christians and non-Christians alike – to see Christ:
“It would be well if professing Christians in modern days studied the four Gospels more than they do. No doubt all Scripture is profitable. It is not wise to exalt one part of the Bible at the expense of another. But I think it would be good for some who are very familiar with the epistles if they knew a little more about Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Now, why do I say this? I say it because I want professing Christians to know more about Christ. It is well to be acquainted with all the doctrines and principles of Christianity. It is better to be acquainted with Christ Himself. It is well to be familiar with faith, and grace, and justification, and sanctification. They are all matters ‘pertaining to the King.’ But it is far better to be familiar with Jesus Himself, to see the King’s own face, and to behold His beauty! This is one secret of eminent holiness.” (Holiness, J.C. Ryle)
Even today
Ryle’s wisdom hasn’t lost its ‘oomph’. His themes and direct style are nourishing and personal, daily warming hearts in fresh appreciation of Jesus. And this year, Evangelical Press have made the series even more accessible with a gently modernised text that protects Ryle’s voice and tone – perfect for everyone who wants to be comforted and challenged by this giant’s commentary and convictions. Whether familiar with Ryle or not, this is a must for gospel-hungry believers!
