HOLINESS: CHAPTER ONE STUDY GUIDE

STUDY GUIDE
HOLINESS
J. C. Ryle
CHAPTER ONE: SIN

1. Why is a right understanding of sin crucial to a correct view of holiness and other doctrines such as justification, conversion, and sanctification (p.1)?

2. Define sin. Describe the cause and effect and extent of the sin problem in man (p. 1-2). Distinguish between the following: sins of the heart vs. overt sins; sins of omission and sins of commission; sins done in ignorance vs. those done consciously.

3. Does man’s sin problem originate from "without" or "within?" Explain (p.2).

4. To what extent does sin pervade man’s being (Cf. Gen. 6:5; Jer. 17:9; Col. 1:21; p.3)? How do we explain the seemingly "noble" things done by the lost (Cf. Rom. 3:12; p.3)?

5. What is the greatest proof of the extent and power of sin (p.4)?

6. What prevents us from realizing the full extent of the exceeding sinfulness of sin (p.4)? What is the "overwhelming and unanswerable" proof of the fulness of sin (p.5)?

7. How is sin deceptive? What kinds of rationale do we use to excuse and minimize sin? What must we be careful to do regarding the deceitfulness of sin (Cf. Heb. 3:13; p.5-6)?

8. What deep reasons do we all have for humiliation and self-abasement (p.6)? For what should we be extremely thankful (p.6)?

9. How does a scriptural view of sin serve as an antidote to: 1) shallow Christianity; 2) liberal theology; 3) sacramental religion; 4) perfectionism; and 5) low views of personal holiness (p.7-9)?

10. What does the author suggest as the best remedy for the poor spiritual condition of the church (p.9-10)? What will be the result of clearer apprehension of the nature and sinfulness of sin (p.10)?