“We pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God” (2 Cor 5:20, KJV).
Harry Ironside tells of visiting an emaciated hospital patient who was nearing death: “I told him I was anxious to know how he stood as to the matter of his soul’s salvation. ‘Oh,’ was the reply, ‘I’m all right as to that. I’m praying all the time. I’ve known about Jesus for a long time. I’ve belonged to a church since I was a boy.’ ‘Well, you see, it isn’t enough to know about these things, and people are not saved by praying. Do you trust in the precious blood of Christ?’ A violent attack of coughing interrupted the conversation. When he was eased, he said, ‘I can’t talk more to you, sir. But you needn’t fear for me, for I won’t forget to pray.’ With this he turned from me, signifying the conversation was over. We are not saying these things to hinder any soul from crying to God. But we warn anyone from putting confidence in mere religious activity rather than faith in God and the testimony He has given.”