I have no practical way of separating actual Christians from hypocrites. In my experience the public profession of faith is not an indicator of trustworthiness.
"I have no practical way of separating actual Christians from hypocrites. In my experience the public profession of faith is not an indicator of trustworthiness."
You're right, a public profession of faith is not an indicator of trustworthiness. It's the life they lead. That is the practical way to determine whether a person is a genuine Christian or a CINO. A persons convictions better have an influence on how they live or they are not genuine. IMO, however, trust has to be earned. I'm a Christain and I have been soundly criticized for not trusting people. "What kind of Christian are you that you don't trust people?" My answer, A realistic one. I firmly believe, however, that I am obligated to be completely trustworthy. But people don't know that so I need to earn their trust.