How do we know formal religion is not true religion?

Formal religion often consists of mere outward practices, such as attending services or following rituals, without any inward transformation or heartfelt devotion. J.C. Ryle warns that many professing Christians may only display a form of godliness while denying its power (2 Timothy 3:5). The lack of a real heart connection to God renders these practices worthless in His sight. The Scriptures emphasize that while God sees the outward actions, He judges based on the condition of the heart, making it clear that formalism without heartfelt faith is ultimately fruitless.