Are You Dead or Alive?---J. C. Ryle (1816-1900)

You…hath he quickened, who were dead.—Ephesians 2:1 Reader, look at the words before your eyes, and ponder them well. Search your own heart, and do not lay down this paper without solemn self-inquiry. I meet you this day with one simple question: Are you among the living or among the dead?...Give me your attention while I unfold this matter and show you what God has said about it in the Scriptures. If I say hard things, it is not because I do not love you. I write as I do because I desire your salvation. He is your best friend who tells you the most truth.