The minister who keeps back hell from his people in his sermons is neither a faithful nor a charitable man.
J. C. RyleRead
People may refuse to see the truth of our arguments, but they cannot evade the evidence of a holy life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A virtuous life can speak louder than words, even if individuals choose to ignore logical debates.
This quote implies that while people might reject rational discussions and arguments, the authenticity and integrity demonstrated through one's actions and way of life—particularly a life marked by holiness and virtue—serve as undeniable evidence that cannot be dismissed. It emphasizes the importance of living a life that reflects one’s beliefs and values, as actions often resonate more powerfully than mere words.
Themes
TruthLifeEvidenceVirtueArgumentsHoliness
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a speech about integrity and living authentically.
More from J. C. Ryle
All quotes →Good hymns are an immense blessing to the Church. They train people for heaven, where praise is one of the principal occupations.
J. C. RyleRead
When I speak of a man growing in grace, I mean simply this - that his sense of sin is becoming deeper, his faith stronger, his hope brighter, his love more extensive, his spiritual mindedness more marked.
J. C. RyleRead
Those who confine God's love exclusively to the elect appear to me to take a narrow and contracted view of God's character and attributes....I have long come to the conclusion that men may be _x000D_ more systematic in their statements than the Bible, and may be led into grave error by idolatrous veneration of a system
J. C. RyleRead
Never be satisfied with the world's standard of Christianity!
J. C. RyleRead
Sunday morning, before we go to hear the Word of God preached...let us not rush into God’s presence careless, reckless, and unprepared, as if it mattered not in what way such work was done. Let us carry with us faith, reverence, and prayer. If these three are our companions, we will hear with profit, and return with praise.
J. C. RyleRead
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