J.C. Ryle's Expository Thoughts on the Gospel of Matthew 4:12-25

In this passage the Lord begins His ministry by preaching; He emphasises the need to repent. Ryle states that there is no work so honourable, or so important to the souls of men. Preach the word was Paul's message to Timothy. Ryle goes on to say that "preaching is the principal means that God has been pleased to use for the conversion and edification of souls."

Ryle again comments that "repentance is one of the great foundation stones which lie at the very bottom of Christianity." It is a truth "which needs to be pressed on all mankind without exception." "All", says he "are guilty before God...must repent and be converted."

In this brief exposition, Ryle speaks of:
1: ...the way in which our Lord commenced His mighty work
2: ...the first doctrine which the Lord Jesus proclaimed to the world
3: ...notice the class of men whom the Lord chose to be His disciples
4: ...notice the general character of the miracles by which our Lord confirmed His mission