Horatius Bonar emphasizes the critical distinction between true and false believers in his sermon 'Religion Without the Holy Ghost,' using the parable of the ten virgins to illustrate the necessity of the Holy Spirit in one's faith. He warns against externalism in religion, where individuals may appear outwardly righteous but lack the essential inner oil of the Holy Spirit. Bonar stresses that mere profession and religious activities are insufficient without the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which is vital for genuine faith and relationship with Christ. He calls for self-examination and urges listeners to seek the Holy Spirit directly from Christ, as true religion without the Holy Ghost is ultimately unfulfilling and ineffective.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes that true holiness permeates every aspect of a believer's life, not just in spiritual practices but also in everyday activities. He illustrates that a holy heart reflects sanctity in mundane tasks such as eating, drinking, and interacting with others, demonstrating that all actions can glorify God. In contrast, false professors exhibit a superficial holiness limited to religious duties, lacking true spiritual depth in their daily lives. Brooks encourages believers to integrate holiness into all facets of life, making every action a reflection of their faith. Ultimately, he calls for a holistic approach to holiness that encompasses both spiritual and earthly endeavors.