Petra Publications

9/16/25 

Born in 1816 into a very wealthy family, Ryle was put into school in Macclesfield at the age of eight. Ryle later wrote that he believed this was too early an age to leave the home. Before he was even twelve, he entered Weaton College. At twenty-one, Ryle gave his life to Christ. He tried to enter law, but he was unsuccessful in doing so due to his father becoming bankrupt. Only six months after he was forced to leave law school, Ryle was ordained. He spent the rest of his life serving people. Ryle’s life was full of people who disliked him greatly. Despite the persecution and hatred he faced, he stayed true to the Word of God and faithfully preached and served the Lord’s people. His unwavering commitment to truth and holiness serves as a timeless example of Christian perseverance. 

Description of the book 

This book is one of the greatest books of all time. It answers many difficult questions about what it means to live as a Christian. In 21 chapters, Ryle covers sin, sanctification, mortification, assurance, and carefully guides his readers in what it means to be holy.  

Ryle’s book is rooted in the Scriptures. He references hundreds of verses and passages. The editor of this work has also edited an index to this book and can attest to the magnitude of Scripture references. This book constantly points its readers back to the Word of the Lord in every teaching. It encourages believers to live authentic, morally upright, and service-oriented lives, reflecting the character of Jesus. 

This book is extremely important for the present time due to its emphasis on the importance of personal holiness and sanctification. These are things that churches and individuals either see as not important or have simply never heard of their relevance to the Christian life.  

Three quotes from the book 

“He forgets the things that are behind and reaches forth unto those things which are before, making ‘Higher!’ ‘Upward!’ ‘Forward!’ Onward!’ his continual motto.” J. C. Ryle, Holiness, p. 121 

“A religion that costs nothing is worth nothing. A cheap Christianity, without a cross, will prove in the end a useless Christianity, without a crown.” J.C. Ryle, Holiness, p 70 

“If you have not got an assured hope of your own acceptance in Christ, resolve this day to seek it. Labour for it. Strive after it. Pray for it. Give the Lord no rest till you ‘know whom you have believed.’” J.C. Ryle, Holiness, p 118 

Where the book is currently published 

While there are several editions of this book available right now, by far, the best one is the one published by Banner of Truth. It is hardcover, clothbound, and Smyth sewn, making it an investment for the rest of your life. 

For further reflection and study uses, Petra Publications also has an index available for this book. It is the only one available at this present time.