Inner Transformation and True Worship
Based on the presented texts, it can be concluded that true following of Christ is determined not so much by the form of external worship, but by the inner spiritual life and transformation that occurs under the influence of the Holy Spirit. For example, one of the texts states:"True Christians are spiritually built by the Holy Spirit and transformed into God's dwelling… Such worshippers are recognized as true worshippers of God! Apart from true Christianity, there is neither the knowledge of God nor worship…" (source: link txt).This indicates that true followers of Christ are those who have an inner connection with God firmly established through the action of the Holy Spirit, rather than solely through external manifestations, such as the veneration of icons.In addition, another source emphasizes that God seeks those who worship Him "in spirit and in truth" and excludes superficial, external worship:"… but the time will come, and it has already come, when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeks such worshippers in Himself." (source: link txt).Thus, if the veneration of icons is accompanied by sincere spiritual renewal and an inner connection with Christ, then the icon worshippers can be regarded as true followers of Christ. Their veneration is not merely a ritualistic, external manifestation but reflects a deep spiritual experience, through which they perceive the image of Christ and the saints as a testimony to God's presence.Furthermore, another source points out the significance of symbolically expressing one's faith through icon veneration, where the image of Christ on the icon helps believers "catch up" with the Son of God by demonstrating a profound connection with Him:"… Worshiping the inanimate image of Christ, through Him I imagine embracing Christ Himself and worshiping Him… (for every saint is a witness of Christ, embodying in themselves the full power of connection with Him, His living icon)." (source: link txt).In summary, it can be asserted that icon worshippers, if their veneration is driven by a sincere spiritual longing for communion with God, are true followers of Christ.