Charles Caldwell

Charles Caldwell Ryrie (1925–2016) was an American theologian and Bible scholar recognized as a significant figure in 20th-century American theology. He held influential positions at Dallas Theological Seminary, serving as a professor of systematic theology and dean of doctoral studies, and also led Cairn University as its president. After retiring from Dallas Theological Seminary, he continued to teach for Tyndale Theological Seminary. Ryrie is perhaps best known for editing The Ryrie Study Bible, which includes over 10,000 explanatory notes and has sold millions of copies since its initial publication in 1978. He was a strong advocate of classic dispensationalism.

Ryrie's academic journey began after a pivotal decision to pursue Christian ministry, leading him to Dallas Theological Seminary where he earned multiple degrees. He later completed a Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh. His career included teaching at Westmont College and leading Philadelphia College of the Bible. Beyond his academic roles, Ryrie was a dedicated collector of rare Bibles and manuscripts, with his extensive collection being sold at auction for millions of dollars. He authored numerous books throughout his career, solidifying his reputation as a prolific writer on theological subjects.

Charles Caldwell Ryrie's theological framework was centered on Free Grace theology, asserting that salvation is attained solely through faith in Jesus Christ. He notably critiqued the concept of Lordship salvation in his book "So Great Salvation," arguing that the biblical term 'metanoia' (repentance) signifies a change of mind and is synonymous with faith, rather than requiring a turning from sin. While agreeing with certain Calvinist tenets such as total depravity and unconditional election, Ryrie maintained that the atonement had universal scope. He was a firm proponent of dispensationalism, specifically advocating for a pretribulation rapture. Ryrie also affirmed the doctrine of divine simplicity, highlighting God's self-existence, and adhered to Trinitarian theology while rejecting Apollinarianism and Monothelitism. In matters of church practice, he taught that men should remove their caps and women should wear headcoverings, citing biblical passages concerning headship, creation order, and the presence of angels.

Ryrie's extensive academic career saw him teaching at various institutions, including Westmont College and Dallas Theological Seminary, where he held significant leadership roles. His tenure as president of Philadelphia College of the Bible (now Cairn University) and later as dean of doctoral studies at Dallas Theological Seminary underscored his influence in theological education. He authored 32 books, with his published works collectively selling over 1.5 million copies. However, his most impactful contribution to the field was The Ryrie Study Bible. First published in 1978, this annotated Bible, featuring over 10,000 of his explanatory notes, became a widely distributed resource, selling more than 2.6 million copies and establishing him as a key interpreter of biblical texts for a broad audience.