There are myriads of professing Christians in every Church whose union with Christ is only outward and formal. Some of them are joined to Christ by baptism and Church-membership. Some of them go even further than this, and are regular communicants and loud talkers about religion. But they all lack the one thing needful. Notwithstanding services, sermons, and sacrament, they have no grace in their hearts, no faith, no inward work of the Holy Spirit. They are not one with Christ, and Christ in them. Their union with Him is only nominal, and not real. They have “a reputation of being alive,” but in the sight of God they are “dead” (Rev. 3:1).
~ J.C. Ryle
Expository Thoughts on the Gospels: John, volume 3, [Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1987], 106, 107.
A myriad of professing Christians whose works profit them nothing because they are dead. This is beyond sad; it’s utterly frightening!
But choosing Christ is a mere act of the will! I’ve heard Baptist preachers say this – it MUST be True!
The Gospel has been reduced to a mere habit by too many who can not rightly be called men of the Word.
If any man be in Christ, BEHOLD! – he is a NEW CREATION!
Praise the Lord for His most excellent mercies and saving grace.