STUDY GUIDE FOR CHAPTER 8 OF "HOLINESS" BY J.C RYLE

CHAPTER 8: MOSES--AN EXAMPLE

1. Read Hebrews 11:24-26. How does the study of the example of Moses relate to our pursuit of holiness (p.1)? Why is his example especially relevant to our present situation (p. 1)?
2. What three things did Moses give up for the sake of his soul (p.2-3)?
3. What did Moses give up as far as rank and greatness is concerned (p.2)?
4. What pleasures did Moses refuse (p. 2-3; cf. 1 John 2:16)? People say, "Whatever makes you happy" and "If it feels good, do it," how was Mose’s example contrary to the way that we are naturally prone to live our lives?
5. What was the measure of wealth that Moses refused (p.3)? How deeply rooted is the pursuit of riches in our day? What should our response be (Heb. 13:5; 1 Tim. 6:8-10)?
6. What three things did Moses choose for the sake of his soul (p.4-6)?
7. What did Moses choose with regards to:1) enduring suffering and affliction (v.25; p.4), being identified with the people of God (v.25; p.4-5); and bearing reproach (v.26; p.5-6)? To what extent are we as believers in Christ compelled to make similar choices (Cf. Heb. 10:32-34; 2 Tim. 1:8; Phil. 1:29; 2 Tim. 3:12; 1 Pet. 4:12-14)?
8. What was the reason for Moses’ suprising decisions (Heb. 11:24-26)? What things did he believe regarding God’s character and promises (p.6)?
9. How was faith like a telescope and interpreter to Moses (p.7)? What did faith teach Moses regarding rank, wealth, and worldly pleasures (p.7)? What did faith teach Moses regarding suffering, identification with God’s people, and bearing the reproach of Christ (p.7)?
10. The author asked "Is there any cross in your Christianity." John Bunyan wrote, "the bitter must go before the sweet." What did they mean? How do these matters apply to us (Cf. Heb. 12:1-4)?
11. Why is faith the only virtue that will enable a person to make such decisions (Cf. Phil. 1:21; 4:13; 2 Pet. 1:1)? How is our faith strengthened (Rom. 1:12; 10:17; Heb. Chapter 11; 12:1-4)?
12. How is the absence of true faith related to one’s actions (p.11)? How does the possession of great faith lead to great results (p.12)?