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Thoughts for Young Men: Updated Edition with Study Guide
There are four great temptations that plague most young men: sloth, lust, love of pleasure, and peer pressure. J.C. Ryle—the last of the great Puritans—tackles each of these subjects with a tenderness and tact which is unsurpassed. If it was difficult to be a young man in the days of the nineteenth century when Ryle first penned Thoughts for Young Men, it is all the more difficult to be a young man in the twenty-first century world of image-overload, radical individualism, and rampant sensuality. Thoughts for Young Men remains to this day the most relevant and helpful book on the subject in print.
78 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1886
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3154 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Ryle
826 books489 followers(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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 737 reviews
September 23, 2019
While it is addressed to young men, so much of what is said applies people of both genders and all ages. It is a book of biblical foundations for Christian living, and it shoots straight and uses large caliber ammunition. Ryle packs so much wisdom into these 80 pages - I would recommend this to just about anyone seeking a stronger relationship with God.
September 29, 2016
A medicine cabinet of aged wisdom and tender care.
Besides the Bible, this is the most effectual and potent book I have ever read.
Do yourself a favour and read it.
Besides the Bible, this is the most effectual and potent book I have ever read.
Do yourself a favour and read it.
November 8, 2022
A friend had said he was reading this work, so I figured I would pick up a copy since I am indeed a “young men”. I deeply appreciate what this book is a embodiment of; the deep care for younger generations, and intentional wisdom sharing on behalf of lived experience for the sake of those navigating faith as a young adult. After about 17 years old it seems young men are sent off to navigate life with their peers, start families, choose a career, and do it all alone. I think this book sets a precedent for men within the church to realize the importance of the new family that is the body of Christ, and that there are “sons” desperately in need of friendship, encouragement and commitment in the way of Jesus.
At times this was a hard read. A lot of familiar language from my experience growing up in the church that left me unsure of God’s love, and almost too certain of His rage made me want to put this book down. The items Ryle unpacks are not false, but my young adult self is the compilation of “the dangers of sin” that left me walking on eggshells and fearful of the presence of God.
I would have appreciated Ryle to lean into encouraging young men to learn how to gaze upon God a little bit more than sin management. I understand the weight of the problem he addresses, but a view trained solely on avoiding temptation and calling out sin in ourselves can lead to a plethora of unintended destinations - self-loathing, pharisaical positioning towards others, an inability to see others for the works in progress they are, and a veil shrouded over the face of the Father, smiling over us - to name a few.
I appreciate the wisdom Ryle offers, but learning the weight and importance of life is only part of the puzzle in learning how to live life with Jesus. It also entails training those in their youth in the ways of grace, mercy, and justice.
I may grow old and realize I was a fool, but those I want to embody who are following Jesus have a healthy view of sin while also deeply drinking in the miraculous love of God as a greater narrative. We shall only see as time
passes.
At times this was a hard read. A lot of familiar language from my experience growing up in the church that left me unsure of God’s love, and almost too certain of His rage made me want to put this book down. The items Ryle unpacks are not false, but my young adult self is the compilation of “the dangers of sin” that left me walking on eggshells and fearful of the presence of God.
I would have appreciated Ryle to lean into encouraging young men to learn how to gaze upon God a little bit more than sin management. I understand the weight of the problem he addresses, but a view trained solely on avoiding temptation and calling out sin in ourselves can lead to a plethora of unintended destinations - self-loathing, pharisaical positioning towards others, an inability to see others for the works in progress they are, and a veil shrouded over the face of the Father, smiling over us - to name a few.
I appreciate the wisdom Ryle offers, but learning the weight and importance of life is only part of the puzzle in learning how to live life with Jesus. It also entails training those in their youth in the ways of grace, mercy, and justice.
I may grow old and realize I was a fool, but those I want to embody who are following Jesus have a healthy view of sin while also deeply drinking in the miraculous love of God as a greater narrative. We shall only see as time
passes.
April 1, 2009
Outstanding.
November 17, 2021
"Young men, these things are true. Listen to the word of exhortation. Be persuaded. Take up the cross. Follow Christ. Yield yourselves to God."
October 3, 2022
really great book (more like pamphlet, its only 75 pages!) for young men to pick up and read! JC Ryle has a great writing style and it seems specifically well-written and easy for a young man to read, and its a quick read. It goes through why young men especially need exhortation at all, what they should be avoiding, and how to avoid it. Quite helpful!
May 31, 2023
Essential reading for every Christian man. Ryle drills down on almost every topic imaginable - sin, temptation, faithfulness, integrity, devotional life, friendship, work ethic, etc. My third time through. Honestly, it gets better every time!
I read Thoughts for Young Men with my seventeen-year old son. The book was deeply encouraging for my boy. I recommend every Christian father and grandfather to read JC Ryle with their sons/grandsons.
I read Thoughts for Young Men with my seventeen-year old son. The book was deeply encouraging for my boy. I recommend every Christian father and grandfather to read JC Ryle with their sons/grandsons.
October 2, 2023
Startlingly relevant for a book written in the nineteenth century. J.C. Ryles clearly articulated the special focus that young men need when it comes to spiritual discipline. Broken into four sections and only 75 pages, Thoughts for Young Men is as convicting as it is succinct. Highly recommended for Christian men 18-late 20s. I wish I had read this when I was younger and plan on reading it annually! 5 stars!!
March 26, 2013
This book is a short yet passionate plea of a man in the latter years of life to young men. Though written about a hundred years ago, this booklet is full of truths that are no less relevant today.
The books is divided into four sections with a conclusion. In section one, Ryle begins with reasons for his exhorting young men. In section two, he then focuses on five specific dangers which young men to be warned of (e.g. pride, the love of pleasure, the fear of man’s opinions, etc.). In section three, he outlines some general suggestions which he entreats young men to receive and then in section four he lays down some practical specific “rules of conduct” which he strongly advises young men to follow. Ryle then concludes with the results of heeding such exhortations as he has laid out.
I read this while in college — yes, as a young man — and it came at an ideal time. His exhortations, I'll add, are more practical and timely than many of today’s most popular authors.
“Youth is the seedtime of full age—the mouldering season in the little space of human life—the turning point in the history of man’s life. By the shoot we judge the tree—by the blossoms we judge the fruit—by the the spring we judge the harvest—by the morning we judge the day—and by the character of the young man, we may generally judge what he will be when he grows up” (p. 11).
Or:
“Godliness has indeed the promise of this life, as well as of that to come. There is a solid peace in feeling that God is your friend. There is a real satisfaction in knowing that however great your unworthiness, you are complete in Christ—that you have an enduring portion—that you have chosen that good part which shall not be taken from you.... Young men, these things are true. Suffer the word of exhortation. Be persuaded. Take up the cross. Follow Christ. Yield yourselves unto God” (p.62).
The books is divided into four sections with a conclusion. In section one, Ryle begins with reasons for his exhorting young men. In section two, he then focuses on five specific dangers which young men to be warned of (e.g. pride, the love of pleasure, the fear of man’s opinions, etc.). In section three, he outlines some general suggestions which he entreats young men to receive and then in section four he lays down some practical specific “rules of conduct” which he strongly advises young men to follow. Ryle then concludes with the results of heeding such exhortations as he has laid out.
I read this while in college — yes, as a young man — and it came at an ideal time. His exhortations, I'll add, are more practical and timely than many of today’s most popular authors.
“Youth is the seedtime of full age—the mouldering season in the little space of human life—the turning point in the history of man’s life. By the shoot we judge the tree—by the blossoms we judge the fruit—by the the spring we judge the harvest—by the morning we judge the day—and by the character of the young man, we may generally judge what he will be when he grows up” (p. 11).
Or:
“Godliness has indeed the promise of this life, as well as of that to come. There is a solid peace in feeling that God is your friend. There is a real satisfaction in knowing that however great your unworthiness, you are complete in Christ—that you have an enduring portion—that you have chosen that good part which shall not be taken from you.... Young men, these things are true. Suffer the word of exhortation. Be persuaded. Take up the cross. Follow Christ. Yield yourselves unto God” (p.62).
June 14, 2022
This is the most helpful book apart from the Bible I have read in my entire life. Ryle offers brutal advice to young men that both convicted me and gave me encouragement. I simply cannot recommend this book enough. This book is my number one recommendation to all young men I know, and even for women too.
Ryle is so practical and basic that a child could catch onto the topics, but so deep and rich that I found myself pausing to meditate on many lines in the book. Here are a few of my favorite lines:
“Who could be more insane than being content to live unprepared to die?”
“If sin is allowed to make its home in your heart, it will not be evicted.”
“Hell itself is truth which is known too late.”
“There is no doubt that being proud is being like the devil and sinful adam, rather than being like Christ. How can it possibly be contemptible or weak to be like Christ?”
“There is an empty place within us which nothing but God can fill.”
“Imagination is the hotbed where sin is too often hatched.”
These are just from the first 2 chapters. There is no way to explain what this little book has done to my soul. It will be a consistent read for many years.
Ryle is so practical and basic that a child could catch onto the topics, but so deep and rich that I found myself pausing to meditate on many lines in the book. Here are a few of my favorite lines:
“Who could be more insane than being content to live unprepared to die?”
“If sin is allowed to make its home in your heart, it will not be evicted.”
“Hell itself is truth which is known too late.”
“There is no doubt that being proud is being like the devil and sinful adam, rather than being like Christ. How can it possibly be contemptible or weak to be like Christ?”
“There is an empty place within us which nothing but God can fill.”
“Imagination is the hotbed where sin is too often hatched.”
These are just from the first 2 chapters. There is no way to explain what this little book has done to my soul. It will be a consistent read for many years.
July 7, 2023
Excellent kick-in-the-pants practical wisdom. Gonna make this one a regular read.
July 6, 2018
Bom demais!
February 4, 2026
2023:
such a short read, but i will definitely reread this book regularly. very bold and firm words from jc ryle as he points out tendencies of young men and the way that we must instead live our lives. with urgency!
takeaway: we don't have enough time in our lives to say we will start serving God and stop sinning eventually. we must begin now.
2026:
"Yield yourselves unto God." Revisited this favourite spontaneously today, and I am again grateful for the words from Ryle that read as if written in the present. Part 4 was particularly challenging in this readthrough, as I would say they are calls to action that I know but do not practice faithfully. May the Lord, who has saved me, be my wisdom as I continue to mature in Him.
such a short read, but i will definitely reread this book regularly. very bold and firm words from jc ryle as he points out tendencies of young men and the way that we must instead live our lives. with urgency!
takeaway: we don't have enough time in our lives to say we will start serving God and stop sinning eventually. we must begin now.
2026:
"Yield yourselves unto God." Revisited this favourite spontaneously today, and I am again grateful for the words from Ryle that read as if written in the present. Part 4 was particularly challenging in this readthrough, as I would say they are calls to action that I know but do not practice faithfully. May the Lord, who has saved me, be my wisdom as I continue to mature in Him.
December 21, 2023
Just fantastic. Wish I had read sooner. Hope to pick up Holiness one day, per Gavin's recommendation.
August 5, 2020
Very very good. This is a must read for every man, not just young, but especially young. I would encourage young men to make this a yearly read. It's a good short read, something I should have read 5 years ago.
Ryle hits on "Why young men especially need to be cautioned", "Their specific, common pitfalls", "Things they need to do to avoid a sinful, wicked life", "Rules to implement to help them live a godly life".
Ryle hits on "Why young men especially need to be cautioned", "Their specific, common pitfalls", "Things they need to do to avoid a sinful, wicked life", "Rules to implement to help them live a godly life".
April 6, 2024
2nd time. What a resource for men of all ages, but I agree with Bishop Ryle the encouragement for young men specifically is invaluable!
July 10, 2024
Lunch read the past couple of weeks. Helpful,applicable, very approachable. One of the best under 100 page books I’ve read
November 27, 2013
Few books can touch the reader's generation with profound biblical insights and practical theological exhortations - still fewer can do this not only for the generation wherein it was written, but a generation hundreds of years removed from its original publication!
J.C. Ryle is a beloved favorite, and this short treatise is further evidence of his careful and scrupulous study making sure every action is aligned with God's Word. Ryle's clarion call to young men is so fantastically pertinent for young men today it's scary. In a generation of young "Christian" men [boys] who are addicted to videos games, MMA fights, and beer, we would all do well to pick this up on a monthly basis and allow our minds to submit to the exhortations Ryle is commending to us.
I was so utterly challenged by Ryle's words, I've never had such a strong desire for more holiness. As a 23 year old teetotaler who does not have a Facebook, does not own cable or a TV, and someone who doesn't own any video games, I already stand out among the crowd. This is not enough: how can I conform my mind more unto Christ? LORD, I want more of You!
Happy is the man, who picks up this book, whose life is changed.
Brent McCulley
J.C. Ryle is a beloved favorite, and this short treatise is further evidence of his careful and scrupulous study making sure every action is aligned with God's Word. Ryle's clarion call to young men is so fantastically pertinent for young men today it's scary. In a generation of young "Christian" men [boys] who are addicted to videos games, MMA fights, and beer, we would all do well to pick this up on a monthly basis and allow our minds to submit to the exhortations Ryle is commending to us.
I was so utterly challenged by Ryle's words, I've never had such a strong desire for more holiness. As a 23 year old teetotaler who does not have a Facebook, does not own cable or a TV, and someone who doesn't own any video games, I already stand out among the crowd. This is not enough: how can I conform my mind more unto Christ? LORD, I want more of You!
Happy is the man, who picks up this book, whose life is changed.
Brent McCulley
May 20, 2024
I haven’t read much of Ryle but this little book was a practical book chalk full of wisdom and down to earth guidance. What struck me while I was reading it was how applicable it was to today’s context.
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2nd time through this. Read the Banner of Truth Edition this time. Much better layout. The content is still gold.
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2nd time through this. Read the Banner of Truth Edition this time. Much better layout. The content is still gold.
November 17, 2020
One of the most hard hitting little books I have ever read. Ryle's holistic critiques of the 19th century young man are no less applicable today, spurring men and women alike onward to godliness and action. I keep several copies of this book to give away.
- concise
- surprisingly applicable in 21st century
- blunt
- insightful
- exposes the sinful heart of humanity
- full of scriptural references
- concise
- surprisingly applicable in 21st century
- blunt
- insightful
- exposes the sinful heart of humanity
- full of scriptural references
September 30, 2024
I read this as my nightly reading for a few weeks. It set itself up nicely for such a endeavor. Every paragraph packs a punch, and as a whole it’s outline was clear to follow.
Few books can deliver the full charisma of the man (or woman I suppose) writing out his words some century and half ago like this one can. I felt the full weight. As if JC stood before me and boldly exhorted me before my inevitable slumber. It was chock full of wisdom and not short of any hard truths. However, though I am a young man, and therefore called to sit and listen, I have some small thoughts and critiques of Mr. Ryle’s work.
First, the gospel was central, but at time was secluded into the background. His references were largely OT (awesome), but found myself wishing for more of the NT tied with it.
Secondly, this book is specifically written to young men who live in a cultural context that is predominantly Christian. This book would be of little bearing to a young believer in much of the world. This is clearly seen when he admonishes young men to go to church, even if they do not get saved (what are the theological implications of the ecclesia ya know?). THE CHURCH IS CHRIST BODY, NOT A SELF-IMPROVEMENT CLUB. Ok ok ok I know he didn’t say that, alas I digress.
Lastly, young men get your freaking act together (i.e. me)
Few books can deliver the full charisma of the man (or woman I suppose) writing out his words some century and half ago like this one can. I felt the full weight. As if JC stood before me and boldly exhorted me before my inevitable slumber. It was chock full of wisdom and not short of any hard truths. However, though I am a young man, and therefore called to sit and listen, I have some small thoughts and critiques of Mr. Ryle’s work.
First, the gospel was central, but at time was secluded into the background. His references were largely OT (awesome), but found myself wishing for more of the NT tied with it.
Secondly, this book is specifically written to young men who live in a cultural context that is predominantly Christian. This book would be of little bearing to a young believer in much of the world. This is clearly seen when he admonishes young men to go to church, even if they do not get saved (what are the theological implications of the ecclesia ya know?). THE CHURCH IS CHRIST BODY, NOT A SELF-IMPROVEMENT CLUB. Ok ok ok I know he didn’t say that, alas I digress.
Lastly, young men get your freaking act together (i.e. me)
September 6, 2024
10/10
Like a bolt of lightning from the very halls of heaven, this little book has completely transformed my views of engagement in the Christian life. Despite the fact that this was written in 1886, I felt a relevancy as if it were written in 2024. God does not change, the truth does not change, and the exhortations in this book are just as applicable now as they were in the victorian age of England. I wish I had read this book years ago, and I have no doubt that it has greatly impacted my future. I strongly encourage all men, especially young men, to dive into this absolute treasure trove of a sermon.
Like a bolt of lightning from the very halls of heaven, this little book has completely transformed my views of engagement in the Christian life. Despite the fact that this was written in 1886, I felt a relevancy as if it were written in 2024. God does not change, the truth does not change, and the exhortations in this book are just as applicable now as they were in the victorian age of England. I wish I had read this book years ago, and I have no doubt that it has greatly impacted my future. I strongly encourage all men, especially young men, to dive into this absolute treasure trove of a sermon.
December 27, 2022
I wish I had read this as an 18 year old baby Christian. However, this is pure solid gold for any young man. Though it may be a little dated on the surface level, its truths are timeless and easily translated. Ryle has a pastoral heart for young men, and it is clear he wants them to make it through life living for what matters most, without shame and regret in old age. Good book, will recommend to young men who will read it!
January 29, 2024
If I could give this book 6 stars I would.
Ryle gets it and he has labored to help young men get it too.
Excellent
Ryle gets it and he has labored to help young men get it too.
Excellent
June 25, 2025
You could read this book once a week for the rest of your life and it would not be a waste of time
January 4, 2023
Uma preciosidade! Cada leitura se mostra confrontadora!
Em breve, uma nova edição revisada, pela Editora Fiel.
Em breve, uma nova edição revisada, pela Editora Fiel.
September 23, 2024
I intentionally took my time with this book because it was packed with so much wisdom in such a small amount of words. It is evidently apparent how strong Ryle’s heart is for young men. he cares deeply for their souls and this book is a plea and exhortation to live for Christ. I highly recommend it for anyone especially young men.
July 14, 2023
A challenging subject handled delightfully. Pastoral, practical.
December 24, 2025
Quite possibly the most excellent book I have read under 100 pages. Second time reading, and don’t know how I gave this work 4 stars the first time around. While addressed to young men, I would argue this is a book every Christian should read.
On the progress of sin in man: “First it startles him, then it becomes pleasing, then easy, then delightful, then frequent, then habitual, then confirmed!—then the man in impenitent, then obstinate, then resolves never to repent, and then he is damned.”
- Jeremy Taylor
“Tomorrow is the devil’s day, but today is God’s day.”
“Men may tell you there are difficulties in the Bible;—things hard to be understood. It would not be God’s book if there were not. And what if there are? You do not despise medicines because you cannot explain all that your doctor does by them.”
“But depend on it, bad company in the life that is now is, is the sure way to procure worse company in the life to come.”
On the progress of sin in man: “First it startles him, then it becomes pleasing, then easy, then delightful, then frequent, then habitual, then confirmed!—then the man in impenitent, then obstinate, then resolves never to repent, and then he is damned.”
- Jeremy Taylor
“Tomorrow is the devil’s day, but today is God’s day.”
“Men may tell you there are difficulties in the Bible;—things hard to be understood. It would not be God’s book if there were not. And what if there are? You do not despise medicines because you cannot explain all that your doctor does by them.”
“But depend on it, bad company in the life that is now is, is the sure way to procure worse company in the life to come.”
June 14, 2022
Second reading: Read this with a group from Covenant Hope.
Great reminders. Helpful applications. Wonderful illustrations. Challenging in many ways, once again!
Will likely return to this work again and again. Excellent for reading in a discipling group.
First reading: Highly recommend this book.
Insightful, clear, helpful, and challenging. Not only for young men but everyone could benefit from Ryle's warnings and exhortations.
Great reminders. Helpful applications. Wonderful illustrations. Challenging in many ways, once again!
Will likely return to this work again and again. Excellent for reading in a discipling group.
First reading: Highly recommend this book.
Insightful, clear, helpful, and challenging. Not only for young men but everyone could benefit from Ryle's warnings and exhortations.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 737 reviews