“May we never forget that without fighting there can be no holiness while we live, and no crown of glory when we die!” —J. C. Ryle

“True Christianity is a fight,” wrote J. C. Ryle in 1877. He argued that from the day of their conversion until the day they die, Christians are called to be soldiers for Christ in a war for their holiness. This inspiring call to action written more than 100 years ago continues to be a source of great encouragement and inspiration for believers today.

In this addition to the Crossway Short Classics series, Ryle explains why the fight for holiness is one of absolute necessity for Christians. Identifying the three main enemies of every believer—the world, the flesh, and the devil—he emboldens them to “either fight or be lost” in their daily battle and offers biblical and historical examples of notable Christian “soldiers.” Fighting for Holiness is a bold reminder for believers to daily put on the whole armor of God and train their eyes on Christ.