J. C. Ryle's Expository Thoughts on the Gospels is the complete collection (originally 4 volumes) of the 19th century's pastors notes on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. A great reference for all Christians and others seeking to further their understanding of the gospels.
(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.
J. C. Ryle one of my favorite authors. It took me a few years to get through this. Can be read straight through or as a devotional. Takes a few verses at a time through the 4 gospels and gives his thoughts on each portion of scripture. Very inspiring book.
When preaching in the Gospels this is the first place I go. Nothing too technical here, just great devotional thoughts on the Gospel texts. Every Christian can benefit from this set. (Plus you can get it cheap on Amazon.)
Used and will most likely reuse for devotional time moving through the gospels. For devotional purposes, I highly recommend Ryle’s work because of each section’s length after examining the same scriptures yourself. Certainly worth your time.
I was given a set of these from a friend and they have played such a huge part of my spiritual growth and knowledge of God. Some of them are falling apart from being used so much. Ryle breaks down each gospel by a few verses at a time, bringing out glorious truths and brilliantly communicating them to the reader. You will never regret buying this set!
Big fan of Bishop Ryle. Seriously considered naming our 3rd child Ryle. But was concerned it would always come out Rahl or Ry-ull b/c we live in the South and no one would know what his name was.
For a 19th Century writer the evangelical bishop, Mr Ryle, is a superb communicator - clear, pithy and concise, never one guilty of verbosity. His Expository Thoughts on the Gospels are a stand out example of this.
As a pastor and preacher I have found consulting the 'Thoughts' an invaluable help. However, it must be recognised that they are not on the level of a commentary and are not technical but largely devotional in nature. Their greatest use perhaps lies in the area of thoughtful application. Ryle writes truth with a full heart.
I have also used the 'Thoughts' for my quiet times and found them challenging, encouraging and uplifting. His utter commitment to the Bible as God's verbally inspired Word breathes out in all he says.