Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

(1)

I love the book, Pilgrim's Progress.  Of course I had heard of it all my life but did not read it until about ten years ago. I have read it several times since. Very insightful.  Great analogies of what the Christian life entails - with its trials and triumphs.  I am going to write of the book in portions...hence the (1), followed by a (2), and so on.  If you have ever listened to the taped version, the person portraying Christian sounds like a whiny baby.  I'd rather not think of him in this way, but as someone like you or me, definitely capable of whining, but also just trying to figure this "walk" out - through mistakes, bad choices, and self examinations.  Isn't that what we do in life?  Learn from our failures?  Life is hard.  It's a good thing we have a manual to help us - the book - as it is called in our story, but we know it as the Bible. Pilgrim sleeps....and dreams... a huge dream.  His first encounter is Evangelist.  (Do not make the mistake of equating him with the television evangelist of today.  This Evangelist is the real deal...in a dream of course.)  Evangelist directs him to keep his eye on the light ahead of him.  To come to the Wicket-gate and knock to receive further instructions.  Sounds simple, doesn't it? Hmmm, if only.
Two of his neighbors are determined to stop him from this venture. Their names are Obstinate and Pliable.  The town they have all come from is the City of Destruction  a.k.a. AnyCity, U.S.A.  
Obstinate tries to dissuade him, but Pliable is well, pliable.  Pilgrim is headed for eternal life and all that awaits him there - sounds like a worthy goal - but he has this heavy burden on his back that slows him down.  Why don't the other guys have this burden?  We will see...  Obstinate is unable to talk them out of their travels and he returns in disgust to his hometown.  Pliable stays with Pilgrim.
In the middle of the plain is a miry bog called Despond.  They both fall in...only Pliable can get himself out, but Pilgrim is weighed down by the load on his back.  Pliable who is neither for or against anything, leaves him in haste.  Aren't we also at times "on the fence" and therefore unfaithful to our family, to our friends, to our Lord?
Pilgrim is now in a pickle.  Help arrives.  No really, Help arrived.  Help told Pilgrim about the steps in the bog - steps placed in the midst of despair, fears, doubts, etc - placed there by the Lawgiver.
We have steps too, in the midst of our despair, fears, and doubts. They too, are placed there by the Lawgiver, Jesus Christ.  We must keep our eyes on Him and trust His Sovereignty in all that happens to us or else we will fall into that bog. We will visit Pilgrim again on his journey in a few posts to come.  His journey is yours, also. You have a burden on your back, as well.  Isn't it heavy?  Well, it is going to get heavier...

(2)

Christian (Pilgrim) encounters Worldly Wiseman....from Carnal Policy.  (With a name like that, it isn't surprising.) WW asks him where he is going and why he is burdened so.  Christian explains that he is on his way to Wicket-gate to be rid of his burden.  WW encourages him to be rid of it now so that he can live an easier life full of God's blessing.  (Hmm. I smell a rat.)

Christian told him of the counsel of Evangelist and WW warns that he is not to be trusted...that the way he is headed is full of wearisomeness, painfulness, hunger, perils, lions, darkness, and death...and what not.  (It really does say that - "what not" - well what is worse than death?  We will see...)  My spell check tells me that wearisomeness is not a word.  Well believe me, it is a word and I have experienced that word...haven't you?  Anyway...

Christian explains that the burden on his back is worse than all of those things.  WW wants to know how he came to have that burden.

"By reading this book," Christian responds.

"I thought so," replies WW.  He attempts to redirect Christian to a place that offers freedom from the burden, plus safety, friendship, and contentment. Christian is eager to hear more. WW tell him of the town of Morality where Mr. Legality lives.  "He is very good at helping men be rid of their burdens.  He is only a mile away and if he isn't home, his son Civility can help him."  (Two more rats.) Christian was convinced that this must be the best choice for him at present....until.

He approaches the hill on which they live and saw flashes of fire coming out of the hill and it frightened him.  He was sorry he had taken that road, plus his burden was heavier now than ever.

Enter Evangelist.  Christian saw him coming toward him and was ashamed that he had been led astray.  He explained how he had been ill-advised by WW.  Evangelist sternly admonished him and read to him from the book. "The just shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him." Hebrews 10:38

Christian fell at his feet and cried, "Woe is me.  I am undone!"  (Have you ever cried that? We are all undone.  It is just that some of us don't know it...yet.)

Evangelist told him to believe.  He also told him of WW's true nature. WW favored the doctrine of this world and it kept him from the cross. Evangelist told Christian to hate the three things WW said/did.

1. He turned Christian from the right way. (Christian must not turn from the counsel of God's word.)

2. He attempted to make the cross meaningless to him. (Christian must prefer the cross to any gold.  The King of glory tell us that he that will save his own life shall lose it.)

3. He set his feet on a path that leads to death - of body and soul. (He must not listen to anyone that leads him from this path.)

Christian was sorrowful for having listened to an evil man.  He asked to be forgiven and put back on the road to the Wicket-gate.

Evangelist said," Your sin is great. You forsook the way and went on forbidden paths, but the man at the gate will receive you, for he has goodwill for all men."

Christian purposed to go as directed.  He backtracked his steps and followed the trail to the gate.  Above it was written "Knock, and it shall be opened unto you."  Christian knocked....

(3)

Pilgrim knocked twice at the Wicket-gate.  a serious man named Goodwill came to question him, asking where he came from and what he wanted.  Pilgrim tells of his search for Mount Zion and that he was told he must pass through this gate.

Pilgrim: "Are you willing to let me in?"

Goodwill: "With all my heart," and GW pulled him quickly in.  He told Pilgrim that not far away was a strong castle where Beelzebub lived and that "Bad News Beez" and his cohorts shoot arrows at whoever comes to the gate, to prevent anyone from entering in.  Christian a.k.a. Pilgrim rejoiced at his ability to enter.

GW and Christian converse about his travels so far and about how no one would come with him on this journey.  (Sometimes the Believer's walk is a lonely one...the world does not understand.)

GW pointed to a narrow road that must be taken.  Christian worried that there might be turnings where he might get lost.

"Yes," said GW, "but stay true as much as possible to the straight and narrow way. You will discern between right and wrong."

The Christian asked if GW might remove his burden from him....heavier than ever by now.

He was told no, that he must bear it a while longer.  When he came to the place of deliverance, it would fall off all by itself.

His next stop would be at the house of the Interpreter who would show him excellent things.  Again he knocked on the door and Interpreter led him in and into a room where a portrait hung on the wall....a Man with his eyes toward Heaven and a Bible in His hand and truth on His lips and the world behind Him, and a crown of gold hung over His head.  Christian was curious about the picture and Interpreter told him that His job was to unfold truth to sinners, despising the things of the world and looking to serve God.  He is the One who would be the guide with Christian in all difficult places.

They then entered another room, full of dust..hmmm, glad to know it isn't just my house...and Int. called for a man to come a sweep, but all he did was kick up the dust with his broom.  So he called for a maid to come and wash it with water, which made the room clean.

What did this mean?  This parlour is the heart of a man who has never been sanctified by the gospel and the dust is his sin that defiles the heart.  The Law is the one that kicked up the dust and the Gospel came to clean with water.  The Law alone could not clean the room. (Wow, this is so powerful.)  But the Gospel came in and cleansed the heart from sin.

Now we come to a room where two children sit...Passion and Patience.  (Put yourself in each of their places..which one are you?  I hesitate to say who I am.)  Passion wanted all that was due him now and was sulking until he received it.  Patience was willing to wait for his reward. A bag of gold was poured at the feet of Passion.  He quickly spent it and had nothing left but rags.

Most of us want all we can possibly get on this side of life.  Riches quickly fade, don't they?  Wisdom waits for the best things.  Then Interpreter showed him a wall where a fire was burning.  The devil was attempting to put the fire out with water, but there was Another behind the wall, feeding the fire with oil.  It was Christ with His oil of grace maintaining the work that is begun in the heart.

All of these are illustrations that should encourage us to press on because of what lies ahead....it is worth the trip, no matter how difficult it is at times.  Press on with me.  I need you and you need me and we both need the Savior.

One last place in this episode 3.  A new palace where men dressed in gold were walking behind the castle wall.  There were many men wanting in and there were armed men at the door, to prevent anyone from entering.  A man sat at a table with pen and book.  One man told the man at the desk to write down his name.  Then the man drew his sword and charged the gate, suffering many wounds before the doors opened to welcome him in.

Christian understood the meaning and smiled and wanted to follow, but there was more to see first.....

(4)

Finally we come to another portion of the book.  Holidays kept me from this journey.  Holidays can keep us from many things...  Must be careful, must be careful.  Getting into Pilgrim mode once again... And remember Pilgrim is called Christian.

Interpreter wanted to keep Christian from entering the Palace before it was time.  He took him by the hand and led him into a very dark room.  There was a man in an iron cage.  (We have all been there, haven't we?  Our cages may have been invisible, but real none the less.)  The man explained to Christian how he had once been a very prominent and revered professor.  He was headed for the Celestial City, but was now caged beyond freedom. Interpreter stood silently by. The man went on to say how he had been doing so well in his walk of faith, when his lust took over and he fell into sin.  He believed he was hardened beyond repentance.

Christian turned to Interpreter -"Is there no hope for this man?"

Interpreter told him to ask the caged man.

The man in iron said that he had crucified the Lord again by his sin - that he had forsaken the truth and despised His righteousness anew.  He confessed that he had fallen into the pleasures of the world and how they had come back to haunt him, like a burning worm. 

Christian: "Can you not repent?"

Caged man: "No, God has denied me repentance and He has shut me up here and no one can get me out!"

Interpreter told Christian to remember this man and let this meeting with him be an everlasting warning. Christian wanted to escape the room and press on, but Interpreter held him back once more. 

There was another man just waking up and he was shaking.  He began to explain his unsteadiness. He told of a dream he had where One was coming in the clouds attended by thousands of others, and a trumpet sounded and it was as if the heavens were on fire. He called the dead to Judgment.  Rocks broke, graves opened, some came with gladness and some feared.  It was like a great courtroom with a gulf between the One Judge and the prisoners.  The sheep were separated from the goats and those that did not know the Shepherd fell into a pit.  He then gathered up all of the sheep and I was left behind. And so I awoke trembling."

He went on. "I was not ready for the Day of Judgment.  I know that He is always watching me."

Interpreter told Christian once again to remember this in order to keep him from going astray. Then the Interpreter bid Christian farewell and said that the Comforter will always be with him.

Christian then came upon the Wall of Salvation.  His load was now heavier than ever as he ran to the wall. Just beyond was a cross on a hill, with a great deepness beneath it.  As Christian stood before the cross, his burden fell from his back down into the sepulchre and was seen no more. (Hallelujah! Just knowing our sins are forgiven is huge!  He has come through so much in order to see his need of forgiveness.  We carry sins as if we own them.  The Christian no longer owns his sin...it has been paid for.  We repent and are made new.  Let us not live in the past, but press toward living for the One who paid the price.)

Happy Christian said, "He has given me rest by His sorrow, and life by His death."  He began to weep.

Three Shining Ones appeared and addressed him, wishing him peace.

The first one told him that his sins were forgiven and the second one took his ragged clothing from him and dressed him in new clothes.  The third one gave him a roll pf paper with a seal on it and put a mark on his forehead.  He told him to look at the paper as he went and to offer it to the Celestial City when he arrived there.  Christian joyously went on his way singing.

When he reached the bottom of the hill, he encountered three men in shackles, sleeping.  Their names were Simple, Sloth, and Presumption. (Boy, am I sensing some conviction here.)  Christian warned them of the great pit where his burden had fallen and told them to move, lest they fall in.

Simple: "I do not see danger."

Sloth: "Just let me sleep a little more."

Presumption: "We will help ourselves.  You go and mind your own business."

Christian was puzzled as to why they would not listen to him.  As he proceeded to walk along the Wall of Salvation down the narrow way, he saw two men jump over the wall onto his path.  Their names were Formalist and Hypocrisy.  Hmm.  

Christian: "Where did you come from and why did you not come to this road by the gate at the beginning? Don't you know that you must come in the right way?

F and H: "We are from Vain-glory and everyone from Vain-glory comes in this way.  Do not worry about it. Thousands before us have come this way because the beginning is too far from here.  What does it matter how we get in as long as we get in?" (How many times have you heard that one?)

Christian: "I walk the way my Master told me to.  You come in without His direction and will go out without His mercy."

They did not talk much more and Christian read his paper that was given him.  Soon they all came to the Hill of Difficulty.  There were three roads: one to the left, one to the right, and the narrow one went right up the hill and the road looked difficult, hence the name.

So often in life we choose the easy path.  I know I do.  There has been a popular challenge in the Christian world to "do hard things." I am trying to learn to do hard things...take the yucky task, walk the extra mile, speak the truth in love.  These can be very difficult. So maybe from now on, I will think of this Hill of Difficulty that Christian faces.  The narrow road is always the right choice.  He will help us make the climb.

(5)

If you remember, Christian is joined by Formalist and Hypocrisy who jumped over the Wall of Salvation to join him on his journey, thinking any entry at all onto the narrow road will lead everyone to the same destination.  (There are many foolish thinkers who jump on that narrow road, though they do not travel it for very long.) Before them now is the Hill of Difficulty with one road leading left and one right and the narrow one leading straight up the hill ahead. The two roads going round the hill by means of much travel are called "Danger" which leads to a forest and "Destruction" which leads to a wide field of dark mountains.  Now, there is nothing remotely appealing about those names, yet they appear to be the easiest means to an end - with the end being getting to the other side of the hill.  And so Christian's two companions leave him to the narrow road, thinking they will meet him on yonder side...and we see them no more.

Christian's run slowed to a crawl because of the steepness.  Mid-way up was a pleasant resting place, made by the Lord of the hill. Christian sat down to refresh himself and read his scroll.  He was glad for the new clothes given him at the cross. Soon he fell into a deep, peaceful sleep and dropped his scroll beside him.  Suddenly another person came to him, calling him to wake and be wise and travel on.  Christian hurried to the top of the hill.

Two men came running toward him.  One was Timorous and the other Mistrust.  (Lovely.)  Christian warned them that they were going down the hill the wrong way, but they said there was danger ahead and that they wanted to go back down.  There were lions on the path and they feared for their lives.

Christian stopped. Facing lions sounded alarming, but retreating to his former life sounded worse.  He wanted to make it to the Celestial City and he had come so far.  He decided to read his paper scroll....which of course you know is missing.  Falling on his knees in repentance for sleeping too long, he asked God if He would help him find it again.  He traced his steps back down the hill, lamenting over the time wasted.  (Can you not relate?  How much time I have wasted going my own way, or even doing His will MY way...does that make sense?  How hard to go back and do things the right way, but it is oh, so necessary!!)

So Christian made his way back to the bench where he had rested on his way up and he began to cry.  As he bent over, he saw the lost roll of paper.  What joy!  This was the assurance of his acceptance into Heaven!  He held it close to him as he carefully made his way up the hill once again.  The sky drew dark and he longed for rest...and then he remembered the lions.  He decided not to sleep as it had delayed him on his journey before.  But don't lions attack at night?  Christian thought about how he might escape their claws and as he looked up, he saw a grand palace called Beautiful.  A narrow passage led him to the door ahead, but there were two lions - one on each side of the path.  (The lions were chained, but the chains were hidden from Christian's view.)  He feared for his life and wondered if he should turn back.

Watchful, the Porter of the lodge sensed his fear and asked him, "Is your strength so small?"  (Sometimes all we need is to hear the voice of another believer, assuring us, encouraging us to press on and have faith.)  Watchful continued, "They are chained.  Stay in the middle of the road and you will be safe."  Christian passed by quickly with gladness and ran to the door of the palace.

Christian: "What is this place and may I rest here for the night?"

Watchful: "This lodge was built by the Lord of the hill for the relief and security of pilgrims."

They talked awhile, getting to know each other and then Watchful rang a bell to call Discretion to take him into the palace and care for his needs.  She called to others of her family to come and meet him. Prudence, Piety, and Charity talked more with Christian.

(Let me just say right here that these conversations are lengthy and I will be summarizing for both you and me.  Wink.)

Piety:  "Tell us about how you came our way."

Christian told them about Evangelist and how he shared the truth of God's word and gave the directions to the Wicket Gate.

Piety: "Did you go by the house of the Interpreter?"

Christian: "Yes, and I learned about God's grace and saw the palace that was guarded and the men that fought to get in.  I also went further and saw the cross where One hung, bleeding on a tree and the very sight of Him made my burden fall from me, never to be seen again." He also told of the three Shining Ones.

Prudence: "Do you ever think of home?"

Christian: "Yes, but I do not want to go back.  I joyfully travel to a more heavenly home.  I look at my new clothes, and I remember the cross, and I press on toward Zion.  I hope to see Him who died on the cross - alive forever more and all the worldly desires I have will be gone and I will no more wrestle with them."

Charity: "Do you have a family?"

Christian: "Yes, a wife and four children." He began to cry because they were so against his decision to come to Christ.  "They did not want to give up their own desires, though I begged and begged."

It was soon time for dinner and the talk turned to the Lord of the hill who had given His life to make this haven of rest for the pilgrims He loved.  It made Christian love Him more.  His new friends took him to his room and he slept all night in a chamber called Peace.

There were displays in the palace of ancient relics that told of might and valor in fighting for truth and justice...stories of lions, and swords, and weaknesses made strong, promises made, and kingdoms divided.  He saw Moses' rod, Gideon's trumpets, and Shamgar's oxgoad.  Then they took him into the armoury and dressed him for battle in the helmet of salvation, the sword of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, and the shoes that would not wear out.  As he was leaving, Watchful told him that Faithful had come by and would be at the bottom of the hill by now.

Discretion, Piety, Prudence, and Charity met him with a loaf of bread, a bottle of wine, and a cluster of grapes and so he went on his way.

His next encounter would be a dangerous one...

All along his journey, Christian meets adversity...and adversaries. And so is life.  We are often discouraged by the world.  Believers are called to be repenters, overcomers, and encouragers.  My spell-check is telling me that those three words are not really words...and so goes the world.  Where would I be without repentance, the Overcomer, and you, my encouraging friend?  Pressing on with Pilgrim..Me.

(6)

Christian has entered the Valley of Humiliation.  (Now, there is almost nothing worse than being humiliated. Pride goes out the window here.)  He saw a foul person coming toward him named Apollyon.  Christian considered turning and running but remembered that he had no armor for his back. Oh! How key this is!  We do not get to turn and run when in battle, so you had better have that armor on...or else figure out how to wear that shield on your back and that just does not sound right, does it?  (Especially when the word "faith" is seen as you are running from the enemy. :/)

Apollyon was monstrous to behold with scales like a fish (his pride), wings like a dragon, feet like a bear and out of his belly came fire and smoke, and his mouth was as a lion's. He frowned at Christian.

A: "Where did you come from and where are you going?"

C: "I am from the City of Destruction and am going to the City of Zion.

A: "I am the prince of Destruction so you must be under my rule. If I did not think you could serve me, I would strike you down."

C: "I was born there, but your service was hard. Now I look for a better city."

A: "If you will go back, I will increase your pay to some degree."

C: "I have given myself to another King.  I cannot go back."

A: "Many that have professed to be His followers have returned to me.  It is okay to do that." (Whoa.)

C: "I have sworn my allegiance.  I will be hanged as a traitor.  Besides, my Prince can pardon me from my sin.  I like His servants, His pay, His government, His country - better than my old one.  I will follow Him."

A: "You better think twice. His servants suffer because of me.  He has never come to deliver them." (Liar.)

C: "They must stay the course.  They shall have their glory when He comes in His."

Apollyon goes on to tell Christian of all his doubts he has displayed on his journey so far.  He humiliates Christian with his failures in following Christ.  How often does Satan remind us of our sins and tell us that we will never be able to live a life pleasing to God?  He brings up our pasts and makes us cringe with regret. God never does that, so if you are playing those old tapes, remember that they are not of God.  Apollyon then expressed his hatred for the Prince Jesus and he threatened Christian.

Christian reminded him that he was on the King's Highway and that he better be careful what he said.

Apollyon blocked his way even more and tried to kill him with a fiery dart.  Christian used his shield of faith to protect himself.  Then Apollyon attacked him fiercely with many darts and Christian was wounded in his head, his hand, and his foot.  They fought vigorously for half a day and Pilgrim grew weaker and weaker.

Apollyon felt bold and proceeded to finish the fight.  He knocked Christian down and he lost grip of his sword.  Just as the monster was about to attack again, Christian reached and grabbed his sword and found strength to go at him again, saying, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." (Hallelujah!)  Apollyon screeched and moaned with the piercing of the two-edged sword.  He spread his dragon wings and flew away and Christian saw him no more.

Christian's eyes turned toward Heaven and he smiled.  He gave thanks to God for all that he had delivered him from. a hand reached out to him with leaves from the tree of life with which he healed his sores.  He rested with the meal that had been given to him.  As he pressed ahead in the valley, he met no other to engage in battle.

This valley led into another called the Valley of the Shadow of Death.  It was a solitary place.  The prophet Jeremiah described it as a wilderness of deserts, pits, and drought.  No one lived here.  Two men approached him as they were leaving and they were warning him to leave as well.

Christian asked, "Why, what did you see?"

"Hobgoblins, dragons, and much howling and yelling as those who are in deep misery.  It is dreadful and totally without order," they answered.

Christian continued on his way, with his sword drawn.  As the path narrowed, to one side of him was a mire like quicksand and on the other was a very deep ditch.  He moved slowly for it was dark.  He could not see his next step.  As he went on, it seemed as though he was near Hell itself.  Hideous noises rose up and scowled angrily at his drawn sword.  He put it away and chose another weapon...prayer.  He prayed for deliverance from this place where flames would rise quickly and smoke was all around him.

At one point, he thought about going back but by now he was halfway through the valley, so he pressed on. As the enemies pressed him, he cried, "I will walk in the strength of the Lord God" and they fell back.  Coming close again, voices whispered blasphemies in his ear and Christian became confused, wondering how he could listen to this much longer.

A voice in the darkness cried, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear for the Lord is with me."  It was then that Christian realized he was not alone.  (Isn't it comforting to know that others have gone through troubles before us?  Some will come after us.  So we are to teach each other what we learn in times of trouble.  Memorize the word and be ready for battle.  It is your best weapon.)  As day broke, he saw the deep pit on one side and the mire on the other, though the demonic creatures had crept back into the darkness to hide from the sun.  He was relieved.

As he was leaving the valley, he saw two giants sitting by a cave.  One was named Pope and the other Pagan.  Beside them lay bones, blood, and ashes.  One was actually dead and the other merely a shell of a person, waving at pilgrims that passed by as he gnawed on his fingernails...harmless.

Often we minimize the spiritual battle that goes on inside us.  We get very good at rationalizing our sins and making excuses for our wrong choices.  Remember, we are in a battle every day.  We are to be more than conquerors.  Eyes watch us...little eyes and Big eyes.  We must persevere to the end in order to be saved.  Think on that and draw your weapons.

(7)

Now, Christian was walking along and came to a small incline.  It was designed by God for pilgrims to see ahead, so he looked out and saw Faithful just ahead of him.

Christian: "Wait for me!  I will walk with you!"

Faithful: "No, there is an evil one chasing me and I must hurry!"

Christian then ran with all speed to catch up but actually ran ahead of him a little and fell.  Faithful helped him up and then they walked on together, telling of what each had gone through.  Faithful had come across a few of the same scoundrels that Christian had, and they spoke ill of Christian.  Pliable had returned home as a dog to its own vomit and his hometown had scorned him.  No one would hire him and he was chided for not staying true to his profession of faith - even though he was also chided for having that faith.

Christian: "Did you meet anyone else?"

Faithful: "Yes, I met called Adam who lived in the town of Deceit. He wanted me to work for him and he said that I would be his heir. His house was filled with the dainties of the world and he had three daughters...Lust of the Eyes, Lust of the Flesh, and Pride of Life.  He said that I should marry them.  I asked him how long I would have to live with him and he said...as long as he himself lived. At first, I was inclined to go with him but then I saw something written on his forehead...'Put off the old man with his deeds'. So I ran from Adam and he said that he would send someone to make my way bitter. Then a man came and knocked me down twice and I thought I was dying.  He was persecuting me for my inclination to go with Adam. I cried for mercy, but he had none."

Christian: "That was Moses..he has no mercy for lawbreakers."

Faithful: "Then One came by and told him to leave."

Christian: "Who was it?"

Faithful: "It was our Lord, for I saw the holes in His hands and His side. So I continued on. I met Discontent who tried to talk me out of passing through the valley and also I met Shame.  He told me all that I was, but he did not speak of God at all.  He said is was a shame to sit and repent under preaching and a shame to ask forgiveness of others... and then I remembered - God prefers a tender conscience. God makes wise the foolish for His kingdom, He makes poor men rich.  I told Shame to leave.  I would not be ashamed of God's ways and His blessings, though it took me some time to get away."

As they walked on together, they noticed another man walking beside them.  He was very tall and eager to talk with them.  His name was...Talkative.  (Already I am leery of this guy.  Talkative people are often headed for trouble. Been there.)

Faithful: "Hello.  Are you going to the Celestial City?"

Talk: "I am and I would love to walk with you and speak the truth about life.  I like to talk about profitable things."

Faithful: "Great. Let's talk."

Talk: "All of the things worth speaking of are in scripture as examples.  We receive knowledge from reading it, and learn the benefit of things above...the necessity of a new birth, the need for repentance and how to instruct the ignorant.  Many men do the works of the law, by which no man can enter the kingdom."

Faithful: "Yes, but these truths are given to us by God and we can not really know them, unless God shows them to us."

Talk: "Yes, all is of grace, not of works. I can talk to you about heavenly things or earthly things, things moral or things evangelical, things sacred or profane, things past, present, or future, provided that all is done to our profit."

Faithful stepped aside to Christian, who was listening.  "Isn't he a most wonderful companion?"

Christian: "He is a clever talker for sure. His name is Talkative and he comes from our town.  He is the son of Say-well.  He is a foolish man. Away from home, he might be well thought of, but close to home, he is ugly."

Faithful: "Then I am fooled by him.  It is hard to believe."

Christian: "Religion has no place in his heart.  It is only in his tongue."   (Oh, Lord, let my walk match my talk.  Let me feel conviction and act on it in repentance...and help me to keep my lips from speaking foolishly.)

"He is all talk...only talk.  His house is empty of religion and saltless. He is a saint abroad and a devil at home. He defrauds the men he works with, he calls his children names, and he causes many to stumble and fall. If I had only known him as long as you have, I might be fooled, too.  Good men do not call him brother or friend. They are ashamed that they know him."

Faithful: "I will be on guard and pay more attention."

Christian: "The body without the soul is a dead carcass.  The soul makes it practical.  Pure religion and undefiled before God is to visit the fatherless and widows and to keep oneself spotless from the world.  Talkative thinks that hearing and saying makes a good Christian.  Hearing is sowing the seed.  Talking about it does not make it so in one's life.  Be sure of one thing...THAT IN THE DAY OF JUDGMENT MEN SHALL BE JUDGED ACCORDING TO THEIR FRUIT." (I capitalized this because it is vital that Christians remember this...it matters what you do and the motive in which you do it.) "Talkative's profession of faith will be insignificant on that day."

How convicting this is for me.  Does my walk match my talk?  How many fruitless moments have I spent?  Doing the next thing in front of me is a good way to press on...but then there are those things that await me outside of my domain.  The widows and orphans, those in prison, the sick...and the neighbor next door - they all need to hear about the love of my Savior.  Merely talking about it does not get the job done.  Lord, help me...and you too, if you are sharing my conviction.  Walk must match talk...and motives must line up.

Faithful: "So now, how can we be rid of him?"  For some reason, this made me laugh inside.  Like flipping the coin over in a split second, once you have changed your mind about something you were so convinced of the moment before.  People.

Christian: "Do as I tell you.  Go and engage him in serious talk about the power of religion and he will surely agree and then ask him how he applies it to his life."

So Faithful did as he was told and talked to Talkative about the saving grace of God.  Talkative spoke boldly about the grace causing an outcry against sin.

Faithful challenged him with, "No, first there is a hatred of sin."

Talk: "What is the difference?"

Faithful: "Man can cry out against it, but he cannot hate it without agreeing with God against it.  Many speak the truth about what sin is, but they do not repent of the evil in themselves.  What other thing declares a work  of grace in the heart?"

Talk: "Great knowledge of God's mysteries."

Faithful: "Knowledge can be obtained without any grace in the heart. It is not an indicator of what is inside of man.   Knowledge that leads a man to do the will of God by grace, faith, and love is the right kind of knowledge."

Talkative did not want to say anymore because he knew that they would not agree, but he left it to Faithful to keep talking if he wanted.

Faithful told him about the grace that brings conviction of sin and the reality of sin in one's life.  It brings sorrow and shame.  It makes a man long for the Lord Jesus, though he may not be willing to live fully for Him.  According to the strength or weakness of his faith, so is his peace and joy and so are his desires to know Him more and serve Him.

And then there is true repentance that brings holy living, a hatred for one's sin, a non-hypocritical life, a submission to faith and love.

Faithful then asked, "So, Talkative, which are you?"

Talk: "I did not expect this kind of talk. You are judging me. Why are you asking me this?"

Faithful: "Because your words are empty. Your religion lies in talk. You are a blemish among Christians.  You are a shame."

Talkative said goodbye in haste and left.

Christian: "It is better that he left us or we would have had to leave him."

Faithful was glad to have talked with him because it was a lesson learned for future reference.  Christian commented on his truthfulness with Talkative and how he did well in his conversation with him.

This was one of my least favorite parts of the book.  Maybe because I can identify somewhat with Talkative and we often do not like those that remind us of the things we like least in us.  It is important to examine ourselves and see if our faith is real...and not just talk.  Are we doing the works that please the Lord?  Are we all talk?  I can get very excited about a new truth I may discover in scripture, but if I do not apply it, then it is empty talk...hollow.  The truth is real....and I want it to be real inside me.  Must self examine, must run to Jesus. Truth pierces and convicts...be thankful for it.

Both Christian and Faithful saw their good friend, Evangelist coming up behind them.  The sight of him brought joy to their hearts.

Evangelist: "How are you? Have you met any new friends?  Are things going well?"

As they told him of their trials, he responded, "I am thankful that you have been victors.  I have sowed and you have reaped.  The crown is before you, so run that you may obtain it.  Hold fast so that no one takes it from you.  You are not free from Satan's devices.  Let nothing that is on this side of the world get within you. Look well to your own hearts and to the lusts thereof.  My sons, you have heard that you must go through many trials...maybe even in bonds and during afflictions.  You will come to a town that will give you much persecutions and one or both of you will die.  Be faithful and the King will give you the crown of Life.  Keep yourselves to God.  Do well unto a faithful Creator."

What news to face.  Would you not just want to stop dead in your tracks and think this over?  But wait, this will happen, perhaps to us one day.  We just have not been told when.  Do well then, to your faithful Creator.  He has been so faithful to you.

(7)

As Christian and Faithful left the wilderness, they came to Vanity Fair.  The name describes it perfectly.  All that it contained was of a vain nature.  Around five thousand years ago, Beelzebub, Apollyon, and Legion set up this fair for passing pilgrims...(this can't be good.)  They sold such things as lands, trades, kingdoms, lusts, pleasures, servants, wives, souls, silver, gold, pearls, and what not.  There were jugglers, fools, knaves, cheats, games, and many murders were committed there as well as thefts, adulteries, and lies.  Many streets were named after countries.  Everyone going to the Celestial City must pass through this town. Even the Lord Jesus passed this way and was tempted much by all that was offered Him, but He remained true to His mission. As our two travelers passed through, they caught the eyes of all for several reasons:

First - the people made fun of their clothing and called them fools.

Second - the people could not understand them and called them barbarians.  The pilgrims spoke the language of the Lord and the men of Vanity spoke from the world.

Third - the pilgrims carried nothing with them and if approached to buy, they placed their fingers in their ears and cried out to keep their eyes from beholding vain things.

When offered something to purchase, they responded that they will buy only the truth.  They were mocked and made fun of all the way through the town and soon the leader of the town approached them.  They were examined and questioned and gave testimony to their journey.

They were arrested and beaten and smeared with dirt. Then they were placed in a cage that all might see them.  Evil men turned on them with accusations and names, but Christian and Faithful returned kindness for unkindness.  There were a few at the fair that took pity on the caged ones and thought that they should be left alone.  Some fighting ensued and there was much disruption.
This made the people angry and so they were beaten again and put in iron chains and paraded through the town.  The pilgrims remained meek and patient, and were placed back into the cage. They were told they would die.
Then they remembered what their friend, Evangelist had said to them.  They encouraged each other and committed themselves again to the Lord, who is Sovereign over all.  Soon they were brought to trial.
Let me say right here that this trial need not have ever happened because they were convicted before it ever started.  How many times have we convicted someone before hearing the whole matter?  Shame on us and if you think this could not happen in our day, be careful...  It does happen.
Soon they were brought to trial.  The judge was Lord Hate Good. The charge was disruptive behavior that caused a few of the townsmen to go against the leader of the city.
Faithful spoke first, telling of their innocence and that he personally defied Beelzebub and all his angels. Three witnesses came forth: Envy, Superstition, and Pickthank.  (I am sorry, but I have to say what a ridiculous name that is.)
Envy spoke first.  He said that Faithful was vile and against all in the town and the customs of the people and that he condemned the activities of everyone there.
Superstition came to speak next.  He testified that Faithful called their religion a sham and unpleasing to God...and that their worship was in vain.
Pickthank lied when he spoke about knowing Faithful for a long time and slandered him in every way.
Faithful asked to speak in his own behalf.  He denied going against the people, but held fast that anything that was contrary to the word of God was evil and wrong.  He said that the worship of God required a divine faith and that the leader of the town Beelzebub belonged in hell.
The names of the jurors were Mr. Blindman, Mr. No-good, Mr. Malice, Mr. Love-lust, Mr. Live-loose, Mr. Heady, Mr. High-mind, Mr. Enmity, Mr. Liar, Mr. Cruelty, Mr. Hatelight, and Mr. Implacable.  (Now to avoid typing all of their hateful comments, let's just say that Faithful was found guilty and sentenced to death.)
First, they scourged him, then they beat him, then they cut him with knives, and stoned him and pricked him with swords and finally they burned him at the stake...and Faithful died.
I cannot read this part without crying.  It breaks my heart.  I pray that I will be as steadfast should it ever be called for.  O, Lord, make me faithful.
Behind him stood a chariot and horses to take him to heaven with the sound of a trumpet to the Celestial Gate.  O, glory and thank you, Lord.
Now Christian was taken back to jail for a time.  But our Sovereign Lord saw to it that he might escape and so Christian was able to flee Vanity Fair.  He sang a chorus that ended with these words,

Sing, Faithful, sing, and let thy name survive,

For though they killed thee, thou art yet alive.

For though they killed him, he lives...and so can we, if we place our trust in Him alone for salvation.  How sad to lose Faithful as a companion.  How glorious it will be for Christian to see him again one day.  We have a few more encounters to make on our journey with Pilgrim.  The end is near.

(8)

As one dies giving testimony of the Truth, one rises out of the ashes to take his place.  Hopeful joins himself with Christian and promises to be his companion for the journey.  He told Christian that many others were changed by their witness and faith and so encouraged him.  The Lord is so good to bring alongside other brethren to help us.  It happens even today.

They came upon a man named By-ends (I really wish these names were more simplified to today's language, but there you are.  What in the world is "by-ends?"  He was from the land of Fair Speech.  By-ends asked them to travel with him to the Celestial City, but if not, then they could go their own way.  They talked a while and Christian remembered that Fair Speech was a town of great wealth.  He said that he himself was related to almost everyone in town and their names were the following:

Lord Turn About

Lord Time Server

Lord Fair Speech

Mr. Smooth Man

Mr. Anything

Mr. Two Tongues

and so on.  You get the idea that all is not as it should be in this town.  Christian quickly remembers that By-ends is a fair weather friend and easily swayed, according to the situation at the moment.  By-ends wanted to walk with him and told him that he was not as 'wishy washy' as he had been accused of being in the past.  Christian told him that they would walk with him, if he promised to stick with them through thick and thin, in dark times and times of rejoicing.  He could not make that promise and so they parted ways.

As Christian and Hopeful looked back at him, they saw that he was joined by three more men of his same caliber.  They did engage in conversation and it was all in vain and I am choosing not to write all of it down.  It was not long until they parted company.

Before long they came to a place called Ease.  It was narrow and soon it was behind them.  A hill called Lucre lay before them.  Close to it was a pit, where men had come too near and fallen in.  The lure of riches had slain them.  A man named Demas was nearby and called to Christian and his friend. 

"Come close and see the silver mine.  You can dig and with a small amount of effort, you will have great gain." said Demas.

Hopeful wanted to go and see, but Christian warned him of the danger.

Demas: "It isn't dangerous if you are careful."

Christian responded. "Our Lord the King would hear of it and we would bring a reproach on His name if we came over.  Besides, I know of you Demas.  You forsook the faith."

Just then, By-ends and his friends went over to see Demas and all went into the pit...either to dig or perhaps they fell, but they were never seen again.

Our friends came to a river that King David and John had spoken of and they drank and were revived in their spirits.  They ate fruit from the trees and slept.  Several days went by as they rested.  Being refreshed they went on their way, but the river became rough and the path was hard on the feet.  Christian saw a way that veered off to the side and asked Hopeful to come with him.  Hopeful hesitated, warning Christian that they should stay on this road, but Christian was convinced it would lead to the same place and be much smoother. Isn't that just how we are?  To alleviate pain and suffering, we often choose unwisely. We let comfort dictate our next move.  Big mistake and a lesson to be learned ahead.)

It led them through By-pass Meadow where they met Vain Confidence who was also traveling to the Celestial City and so Christian was relieved to hear it.  But when darkness fell, they could no longer see their new 'friend'.  Vain Confidence.  Confidence in a direction that should never have been taken.  Have you never done that?  Vain Confidence had fallen into a pit designed to capture those on the way to the City by the one who owned the land.

Immediately Christian and Hopeful regretted their choice and Christian asked for forgiveness for leading them this way.  Hopeful was glad to give it and offered to walk ahead of them in case of more danger.  The river began to rise and they had no where to go.  A voice was telling them to turn back to the original road, but it was too late and if they had, they would have drowned many times over.  A small shelter was near and they sat down until morning, but being weary, they slept.

Doubting Castle was not far off, where Giant Despair lived....

(9)

Giant Despair caught them sleeping on his land, woke them, and made them come with him.  He was stronger than they were and they knew they were trespassing so they went before him as he drove them into the dungeon of his castle. It was dirty and smelly. They were left without food or water from Wednesday morning to Saturday night.  Christian felt responsible for their predicament.

Giant Despair went in to his wife, Diffidence (meaning withdrawn and shy)  I think this word needs a new definition - and asked her advice as to what to do with them.  She suggested he go down and beat them mercilessly.  He did and then left them in their pain and agony.  He then asked his wife again what his next step should be.  She told him that they should just do away with themselves....since life brought so much bitterness.  Christian and Hopeful begged to be released and when Giant approached him, he struggled with a "fit" that sometimes came over him in sunny weather....and then he withdrew.

Christian and Hopeful began to talk about how miserable they were and that maybe they should end their lives, for the grave is easier and kinder than this.  But Hopeful spoke of the commandment not to kill and reminded Christian that God is in control of all things and could do as He wishes on their behalf.  So they decided to wait upon the Lord.

The Giant came again in anger and tried to persuade them to end their lives.  Hopeful reminded him of his battle with Apollyon and how they had persevered so far.  So as his wife advised, he took them into the courtyard, showed them the bones and skulls of those he had killed before and then shut them up again to ponder these things.

It was Saturday and they began to pray and did not stop until the break of day.Christian suddenly remembered a key that would open any lock in Doubting Castle and so he unlocked every door that stood in their path.  The giant awoke and tried to follow, but a fit came over him and so they escaped and came to the King's Highway.  As they made their way, they wrote a warning to other pilgrims to steer clear of Doubting Castle.  Don't you wish there were warnings for us as we live our lives?  Oh, wait!  There are.  They are found in scripture.

Delectable Mountains, owned by the Lord of that hill were just ahead.  There they rested, ate, and washed.  Shepherds were tending their flocks and Christian asked them who owned the sheep.  

Shepherds: The mountains and sheep and the Celestial City are all owned by Emmanuel.  We are to entertain strangers such as you and encourage you on your way.  Our names are Knowledge, Experience, Watchful, and Sincere.  We will care for you and ask you to stay with us until you ready to go.

The next day the shepherds showed them a door that was a by-way to Hell.  They told the pilgrims that many have come so far on their way to the Celestial City, only to give up and quit trying.

As they were saying their goodbyes, one shepherd gave them a note of the way, and another told them to beware of the Flatterer, and another told them not to sleep on Enchanted Ground, and the fourth said, "God speed."

Hopeful and Christian were soon joined by Ignorance - Don't need a definition for that name.  He told them that he was headed the same place that they were and when asked how he might enter, he began to mention his good works.  He was wise in his own conceit.  They pressed on without his company, though he followed at a distance.



(10)

Soon Christian and Hopeful came to a place where two paths were joined.  They both seemed arrow straight and looked alike in width.  One took a slight turn, but it was just as straight and direct as the other.  A dark man in a light cloak approached them, told them he was headed for the Celestial City and so they followed him.  the path turned and turned until they could no longer see where they were going and suddenly they felt entrapped in a large net.  Christian remembered the saying, "a man that flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his foot."  How many times has a way looked really good and right and once taken, it is proven to be slightly off and wayward.  The same with a person who seems nice and friendly, but after a conversation or two, there is something amiss about them.

Soon a Shining One appraoched them with a whip.  He questioned them and then told them that a flatterer had disguised himslef as an angel of light and tricked them.  He led them out and severely chastised them becuase they did not heed the warnings given to them.  They thanked him and told him they would listen and obey from now on. 

Another man approached them and as he was headed toward them, his back was to Zion.  His name was Athiest.  When they told him they were headed for Zion, he laughed out loud.  He told them there was no such city as Zion as he himself had been looking for it for many years.  Atheists often laught at Christians.  It is ok, they will know the truth soon enough.  Press on.

Chrisitan and Hopeful knew he was a flatterer and did not speak the truth.  They walked away from him, leaving him still laughing.  Soon the air was thick and made them drowsy.  They wanted to sleep and Hopeful tried to get Christian to rest for awhile.

Christian: Don't you remember that one of the Shepherds told us to beware of the Enchanted Ground?  We must watch and be sober. Let's talk to keep us awake. 

Christian began to sing and then question Hopeful.

C: What made you come on this journey?

H: As you remember, I am from Vanity Fair.  I lived in delight there.  I took part in living wildly and then I saw you and Faithful.  But I shut my eyes to the light of the truth.  I was not aware that God was working in me.  I did not want to leave my sinful life. I became so convicted that I couldn't stand to think about my old ways and those bad friendships...and then I would think worse than I did before.

C: Why?

H: I became convicted if I came across a good man, if I read or heard the Bible, if I thought of dying or someone being ill, or of myself being under judgment.  I could not get rid of the guilt.  So I chose to try and mend my own life.

Hopeful said that his own righteousness was as filthy rags and that he could do nothing to merit the goodness and forgiveness of God.  He talked about sins still plaguing him and said how Faithful told him that he needed the righteousness of Someone perfect.  Faithful told him of the Lord Jesus.  Hopeful did not see how Jesus could or would save such a sinner as himself. Do not make the mistake of magnifying your sin to the point of self-centeredness...thinking that God could NEVER save someone as bad as you.  You are then focusing on yourself and not on the saving power of the Lord Jesus.  He made sinful you, you know?

Christian asked him more questions and Hopeful praedy to receive Christ as Savior. He saw the world differently than before and saw the need for Christ in all men.  He also longed to live a holy life. 

Ignorance, who had been following at a distance now hurried up to them.
They began to talk.
C:  How is it with you and God?
I: We are great!  His thoughts comfort me as I walk. I think of God and heaven and desire them.
C: So do those in hell.
I: I have left all for them.  My heart tells me so. My heart is good.
C: Only a fool trusts his own heart. You may be comforted by something that does not exist.  Do you know you have a good heart and life or do you just think so?
I: What do you think a good life is?  When do our thoughts and lives agree with the word of God?
C: When we see ourselves as the word says we are.  Our hearts are desperately wicked.  Who can know them?
I: I will never believe my heart is bad.
C: Man's ways are crooked. When he is humbled, then he has a right ability to assess his own ways.
They went on to discuss justification and the matter and worth of righteous works.  Christian told him his faith was false and wrong.
Ignorance believed he could live as he wanted if Christ's righteousness justified him.
C: Surely Ignorance is your name and it suits you.  You are ignorant to the saving faith of Christ which is to bow and win over the heart to God in Christ, to love His name, His word, ways, and people and not as you ignorantly imagine.

Christian and Hopeful went on ahead together as Ignorance hobbled behind them.  They were saddened by the fact that so many were just as Ignorance was.  The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and he seemed to have no fear.

(11)

Christian spoke to Hopeful: Right fear is discovered by three things.

1. It is caused by conviction of sin.

2. It causes a person to run to Christ.

3. It makes tender the thoughts of Christ and His word and His ways.

They continued to talk and Christian told him they had about two miles left to travel. Wow, if only we could know how many more 'miles' until we see Jesus.  And how long does it talk to walk those miles?  Sometimes lifetimes.

C: Most people stifle those fears.

H: How?

C: They think the fear comes from the devil and so they resist, but it is a Godly fear. They think they will ruin their faith, when actually they have no faith.  They think they should not fear. The fear tries to take them from their pitiful holiness.  Have you heard of a man named Temporary?  He walked the right way for a little while but then fell back.

H: Yes, his conscience was awakened, but his mind was not changed.  When guilt wasn't dealt with, he returned to his old ways.  The fear of man also brings a snare. They become proud and think they do not need religion because it makes them feel less than they think they are.

C: They just remember what they know about God without learning more. They quit praying and indulge in lust. They stay away from believers. They begin to hang around wicked people.  They sin openly.  They are seen as they really are.

By this time, the travelers had come to the land of Beulah.  The air was sweet and pleasant.  Birds sang.  Flowers bloomed.  The sun shone day and night.  They could see the City in the distance.  Pearls and jewels and gold gleamed from the sun.  Soon they came to a river with no bridge to cross over.  It was very deep.  They were stunned at the seemingly impassable roadblock.

Two men in bright clothing told them that they must go through the river in order to get to the gate.  As they tried to swim, Christian began to sink. He cried out and Hopeful said, "Be of good cheer.  I can feel the bottom!"

Christian felt engulfed by the dark.  He feared he would never see the Celestial City.  Hopeful struggle to help his friend as they went down and came up out of the water over and over again.  Finally they reached the other side where two ministering angels met them.  The angels helped them up the hill and spoke of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  

As they neared the gate a company of heavenly hosts came to meet them and surrounded them, blowing trumpets.  Over the gate, written in gold were these words: "BLESSED ARE THEY THAT DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, THAT THEY MAY HAVE RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE. AND MAY ENTER IN THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY."

The King commanded the gates to open and Christian and Hopeful were transfigured and dressed in shiny clothes like gold.They entered into the joy of the Lord.

They saw some that had wings sounding  "Holy holy holy is the Lord!"

Now all of these things I saw in a dream.  As I looked back, I saw Ignorance and others trying to get in, but they did not meet the requirements.

This book challenges me to walk a finer walk, be more aware of my talk, and desire to encourage others along the way.  I get so sidetracked just as they did.  I, too lose my way.  The Lord chastens those He loves.  Oh, do chasten me sweet Lord.  I want to finish well.  I want to be faithful.  Please help me and show me.  

I hope you will see the importance of your walk.  Everything you do matters.  Press on.