Editor’s Note: J.C. Ryle first wrote these words about being a true Christian to his English congregation in 1878. His important message is as powerful today as when he first wrote it.
“Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord and see how they do.” — Acts 15:36
The text contains a proposal the Apostle Paul made to Barnabas after their first missionary journey. He suggested they revisit the churches they had helped establish to see how they were doing. Were they remaining steadfast in the faith? Growing in grace? Moving forward—or falling away?
This wise proposal is one we should apply to ourselves. Let us examine our own lives and ask: How do we do?
We live in an age of spiritual danger. Outward religion is abundant, but real heart-religion is scarce. Many fill pews but know nothing of the living Christ. Are we true Christians—or merely religious?
1. Do We Ever Think About Our Souls?
Many people never give religion serious thought. Life is absorbed with work, pleasure, politics, and self-indulgence. Eternity is rarely, if ever, considered.
They live as though they will never die. Religion is treated as fiction, not fact. Unless interrupted by tragedy, they move through life ignoring God altogether.
This is senseless. It reduces humans to the level of beasts. Yet such is the life of many. They succeed in the world—and are praised for it—but they will one day face God.
Let us pause and ask: Do I think about my soul at all?
2. Do We Ever Do Anything About Our Souls?
Some think about religion—but stop there. After a funeral, illness, or moving sermon, they reflect, but never act.
They mean to do better, but never take up the cross. They resemble the son who said, “I will go,” but did not go.
Many hear the Word like a lovely song—but never obey it (Ezekiel 33:31–32). They intend, but never follow through.
Let us ask: Have I acted on the truth I know?
