These articles begin a series of reviews of Christian books found within the treasury that is our church library.

J C Ryle, Bishop of Liverpool in Victorian England, is one of my favourite authors. His book “Holiness” is considered a classic and many godly Christian writers have this near the top of their all-time list of Christian books. Yet to my shame I read it for the first time in the summer of 2023 whilst on our family holiday.
It was published in 1897 and yet it could have been written today. There are occasional references to things of its time, but the sins, temptations, joys and opportunities are all the same.
If you are serious about becoming more Christ-like, having a real desire to follow Him and are discontent in staying still in the Christian life, then you should read this. Straightforward to understand but unforgettable. I recommend reading just one chapter a week and then pondering on it for the rest of the week drawing out its applications.

What are the author’s objectives?

  • To show that true holiness is found by deeper union with Christ – and not via tick-
    box Christianity.
  • To show that true holiness is based on a right knowledge of God’s word.
  • To show that true holiness is not whipped up for a temporary feeling but rooted and long lasting.
  • To show that true holiness is first shown at home – holier Christians make better wives, husbands, children, and parents.

The book challenges you to empty yourself and seek to be filled with Christ, dealing with the serious issue of the way Christians sadly trifle with sin. It dismisses the notion that we can be too busy in work or even in Christian service to be concerned with serious holiness.
However, running through the book is a deep love of Christ. A recognition that we will never reach perfection in this life and that is why we need a Saviour. This is balanced beautifully and compassionately with God’s command to “Be holy”. A copy of this book should be in every church library!

Let me leave you with this review on Amazon which sums up the book perfectly…
“I hesitate to say this because I have read and dipped into so many books in my journey of faith but if I had to only keep one book, in addition to my Bible, this would be a strong
contender. Ryle has a straightforward, direct and humble style, he cuts to the heart of what matters and implores the reader to examine themselves and ‘make Christ their all.’ This is so refreshing, and true life to our souls when compared to so much of the trash that is written today, in the name of Christianity. You can study different chapters, an ideal book for small group discussion.”

Dr Simon Benham