Until John, we have been using older manuscripts of Ryle's Expository Thoughts. Just recently, though, EP Publishing has put out a lightly updated version of Ryle's work, which I am now working from. If you are interested in a physical copy of the Expository Thoughts, you can find it HERE.

John 8:48-59

1. We should observe what blasphemous and slanderous language was addressed to our Lord by His enemies.
2. We should observe what glorious encouragement our Lord holds out to His believing people.
3. We should observe what clear knowledge of Christ Abraham possessed.
4. We should observe how distinctly our Lord declares His own pre-existence.

"So long as they serve the world and walk in the broad way little perhaps will be said against them. Once let them take up their cross and follow Christ and there is no lie too monstrous and no story too absurd for some to tell against them, and for others to believe."

"Of course these words do not mean that true Christians will never die. On the contrary, we all know that they must go down to the grave and cross the river just like others. But the words do mean that they shall not be hurt by the second death, that final ruin of the whole man or woman in hell, of which the first death is only a faint type or figure."

"The plain truth is that we are too apt to forget that there was only ever one way of salvation, one Saviour and one hope for sinners and that Abraham and all the Old Testament believers looked to the same Christ that we look to ourselves."

"He to whom the gospel bids us come with our sins and believe for pardon and peace is no mere man. He is nothing less than truly God and therefore able to save to the uttermost all who come to Him."

Questions:

1. Ryle points out that Jesus' opponents' resort to slanderous language, a common sign of a defeated cause. If we take up our cross and follow Jesus, it is only a matter of time before we also encounter such trials. Have we faced such attacks from others? If so, did it surprise you or were you aware of joining with Christ in that moment?
2. Ryle points out that Abraham's seeing Christ and being glad was by faith looking forward to the promised one to come, and that today, we only are looking back on His coming. There is some confusion today about how OT men and women were saved, is this a new understanding or just reminding you of something beautiful you already know?
3. Ryle points out the great comfort we have in knowing that Christ Jesus is the great I AM. Jesus is the eternal God who never changes, and to whom we can come with confidence that he can save to the uttermost. Have we come to Him and put our full weight down on Him? If you have, would you not do so afresh even now as you consider this great truth?