J. C. Ryle

Date of Birth: May 10, 1816

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: June 10, 1900

Biography

John Charles Ryle, commonly known as J. C. Ryle, was a prominent English evangelical Anglican clergyman and the first Bishop of Liverpool. Born into a prosperous and influential family, Ryle initially pursued a career in politics and law before his conversion to Christianity led him to the ministry. Educated at Eton and then at Christ Church, Oxford, he excelled academically but faced personal and professional challenges, including his father’s financial ruin which pushed him towards a religious vocation. Ryle was ordained in 1841, and his commitment to evangelical principles made him a notable figure within the Church of England. His ministry was marked by a straightforward preaching style and a dedication to pastoral care. He wrote extensively, producing tracts, books, and commentaries that remain influential to this day. His works often emphasized the authority of Scripture, the importance of personal holiness, and the necessity of a clear and public profession of faith in Christ. In 1880, he was appointed as the first Bishop of Liverpool, where he served until his retirement in 1900. His tenure was noted for his efforts to expand the church’s presence in the rapidly growing city and his unwavering stand against liberal theology.

5 Interesting Facts about J. C. Ryle

1. J. C. Ryle was educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxford, where he initially intended to pursue a career in law and politics before turning to ministry.

2. He was known for his strong evangelical stance and was a prolific writer, producing works that continue to be read and respected in evangelical circles.

3. Ryle faced significant personal challenges, including the financial collapse of his father’s business, which had a profound impact on his life and career.

4. He was the first Bishop of Liverpool, appointed in 1880, and served in this role until his retirement in 1900.

5. Despite his influential position, Ryle remained committed to pastoral care and was deeply involved in the lives of his parishioners.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from J. C. Ryle

1. “The best of men are men at best.”

2. “Let us never forget that what we are in the sight of God is of infinitely more importance than what we appear in the eyes of man.”

3. “Holiness is the habit of being of one mind with God, according as we find His mind described in Scripture.”

4. “A single day in hell will be worse than a whole life spent carrying the cross.”

5. “Do nothing that you would not like God to see. Say nothing you would not like God to hear. Write nothing you would not like God to read. Go no place where you would not like God to find you.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

J. C. Ryle did not accumulate significant personal wealth; his highest net worth is not documented in financial terms. His true legacy lies in his theological contributions and pastoral work.

Children

J. C. Ryle had five children. His first wife, Matilda Charlotte Louisa, passed away shortly after the birth of their first son, John, who also died young. Ryle remarried, and with his second wife, Jessie Elizabeth Walker, he had three sons (Herbert Edward Ryle, Reginald John Ryle, and Arthur Ryle) and a daughter (Georgina Ryle). His children had varying degrees of involvement in religious and academic fields.