Thoughts For Young Men by J.C. Ryle

Who should read it

Despite its name, this book is a treasure-trove of godly advice for all people. It is an immensely a helpful book for those seeking to disciple senior boys in particular.

Why

This book was first written in 1886 by Bishop J.C. Ryle to exhort young men to take seriously the call to take up their cross and follow Christ. It stands the test of time as a means by which to encourage young men in particular to live out their faith with conviction and integrity. Thoughts for Young Men follows a clear structure whereby the author states the point he wants to make in a clear sentence before fleshing it out from a biblical perspective over a number of paragraphs. Ryle starts the book by addressing what he considers to be particular dangers that are common to young men, before laying out 'general counsels' and 'special rules' for young men. He is unflinching in both his resolve to call out that which leads a young man to sin, as well as his application of the gospel to their lives. Ryle provides ample encouragement for a young man seeking to take his faith seriously, as well as practical avenues for them to follow.

Publisher

Charles Nolan Publishing (first published 1886), 2002