Fighting for Holiness
(Crossway Short Classics)
“May we never forget that without fighting there can be no holiness while we live, and no crown of glory when we die!” —J. C. Ryle
“True Christianity is a fight,” wrote J. C. Ryle in 1877. He argued that from the day of their conversion until the day they die, Christians are called to be soldiers for Christ in a war for their holiness. This inspiring call to action written more than 100 years ago continues to be a source of great encouragement and inspiration for believers today.
In this addition to the Crossway Short Classics series, Ryle explains why the fight for holiness is one of absolute necessity for Christians. Identifying the three main enemies of every believer—the world, the flesh, and the devil—he emboldens them to “either fight or be lost” in their daily battle and offers biblical and historical examples of notable Christian “soldiers.” Fighting for Holiness is a bold reminder for believers to daily put on the whole armor of God and train their eyes on Christ.
- Opening Credits
- Foreword
- Series Preface
- Biography of J. C. Ryle
- Fighting For Holiness
- Closing Credits
J. C. Ryle
John Charles Ryle, the Beloved Bishop of Liverpool, was born on May 10, 1816, and obtained a degree in classical studies from Oxford University. He had aspired for a career in politics, but this dream was derailed by family financial misfortunes that compelled him into becoming an Anglican clergyman in 1841.
Upon becoming a vicar, Ryle’s vigorous evangelical preaching, warm personality, and ability to relate well with the masses earned him success in gospel outreach. He was later appointed Bishop of Liverpool in 1880 at the recommendation of Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, a post Ryle he held until retiring at age 83.
J.C. Ryle embodied a singular dedication to a single book; his knowledge of Scripture ran deep within him; his devotion to the Bible was unwavering - he lived and breathed the sacred text. As Ryle himself said, “It is still the first book which fits the child’s mind when he begins to learn religion, and the last to which the old man clings as he leaves the world.”
After his death in 1900 the subsequent Bishop of Liverpool described J.C. Ryle as “the man of granite with the heart of a child.”
Crossway Short Classics
