Sickness | J. C. Ryle

Deep Dive into Practical Religion: Being Plain Papers on the Daily Duties, Experience, Dangers, and Privileges of Professing Christians by J. C. Ryle - SicknessIn J.C. Ryle's writings on the subject of sickness, he emphasizes that physical illness is not a sign of God's displeasure, but rather is intended to be a spiritual blessing and a tool for our ultimate good. Ryle structures his examination of sickness around its universal prevalence, its spiritual benefits, and the specific duties it requires of us.First, Ryle notes that sickness is an unavoidable reality that affects people of every class, region, and background, and cannot be completely prevented by human effort. He argues that the existence of disease and suffering can only be properly explained by the biblical account of the fall of man and the entrance of sin into the world. The complex design of the human body refutes atheism, while the presence of disease challenges deism, making the Bible the only satisfactory explanation for the human condition.Second, Ryle outlines the benefits of sickness, describing it as a rough but valuable schoolmaster for the soul. Illness serves several vital spiritual purposes: it reminds people of their mortality, prompts serious thoughts about God and eternity, softens hard hearts to the emptiness of worldly things, humbles human pride, and tests the genuine nature of a person's religious faith.Finally, Ryle details the practical duties that the reality of sickness demands of everyone. Individuals must live habitually prepared to meet God through faith and justification in Jesus Christ. They should also cultivate patience to endure physical trials when they arrive, and maintain a readiness to sympathize with and assist others who are suffering. Ryle concludes by urging readers to seek close communion with Christ during times of health so they may find peace, comfort, and the strength to glorify God when they inevitably face illness and death.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedExplainerSpotify Music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1t5dz4vEgvHqUknYQfwpRI?si=e-tDRFR2Qf6By1sAcMdkdwhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730