Abridged and adapted by Dick Worth © 1994
(To navigate, click on title)
A Brief biography of John Bunyan
Some Lessons from Bunyan's Characters
The Journey of Christian
from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City
The City of Destruction [Contents]
In my dream I saw a man clothed in rags and with a great burden on his back. He was reading a book that made him tremble. I heard his cry, "What shall I do?" He went home and eventually told his wife the awful news that their city was going to be destroyed by fire; there seemed to be no possible escape. Not surprisingly his wife and family thought he must be either mad or ill. But he did not sleep. Indeed, by morning his misery was even worse. He went out to walk alone in the surrounding fields. On returning home he went and hid in his room. He read and prayed without relief. For several days he cried, "What must I do to be saved?" (Act 237)
Then I saw a man called Evangelist come and ask him what the trouble was.
Christian "Sir, I am afraid to die because this book tells me that this burden that I carry on my back will make me sink lower than the grave."
So Evangelist gave him a small card that said, "Flee from the wrath to come!" That was just what he needed to make him feel better!
Christian "Flee, yes, but where to?" he cried desperately.
Evangelist "Do you see in the distance a small Wicket-Gate?"
Christian "No."
Evangelist "Do you see a shining light?"
Christian "Yes."
Evangelist "Go directly towards it and you will find the Gate. Knock, and you will be told what to do next."
Then I saw in my dream that the man ran towards the light that he could see. Many in the city tried to stop him, but he refused to listen, and ran all the faster. Two men pursued him, resolved to bring him back, by force if necessary. They soon caught up because they had no burden on their backs and immediately tried to persuade him. "No," said Christian (for that was his name), "You live in the City of Destruction where you will die and go to the place that burns with fire. Come and escape with me."
Obstinate "What! Leave all our friends and the life we enjoy so much?"
Christian "Yes. Because all that you leave behind is trivial compared with the joy of the place where I am going. For there our inheritance is incorruptible and lasts for ever. See, it says so in my book."
Obstinate "Rubbish! Will you come back with us - yes or no?"
Christian "Never. I have put my hand to the plough." (Lu 962)
Obstinate "Come on Pliable, let's go home, this man is as stupid as he is determined."
Pliable "But maybe he is right; and the future he seeks is better than ours. I think I will go with him; there is no harm in trying."
Obstinate "Surely you are not going to be led by such a brain-sick person. Listen to me and come on home."
Christian "Come with me Pliable. If you don't believe me, read it here in this book. Its truth is even confirmed by the blood of the Author."
Pliable "Christian, you've convinced me. Do you know how to get to this place?"
Christian "Evangelist gave me directions to a small gate where we will receive further instructions."
So I saw in my dream that Obstinate returned. He did not want to be misled by such fanatical ideas. Meanwhile Christian was telling Pliable about an eternal life, about crowns of glory and shining garments and even of a King who would wipe away all the tears of his subjects.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
The Slough of Despond
As they talked with such enthusiasm, they were quite unaware that they had
come to a bog called 'The Slough of Despond'. Both of them fell in.
Pliable "Where are we now?"
Christian "I don't know."
Pliable "Is this supposed to be the happiness you were speaking of? If this is a taste of what it is like, you can go your way and I'll go mine - if I can get my feet out."
Pliable did get out. But once home, some said he was wise to return, some called him a fool to have gone with Christian, and others mocked his cowardliness.
Now Christian was in a sorry state. The burden on his back made him sink deeper and deeper as he struggled. Then I saw in my dream that a man called Help came to his assistance.
Christian "Why are the steps not easier to find; and why isn't the bog drained so that it would be easier for travellers?"
Help "It is impossible to mend, for it is the collecting place for all the doubts and discouragements that accompany a man convicted of sin. Servants of the King have laboured for two thousand years to make a substantial path across it. And the Lawgiver has placed some good steps but they are very quickly covered again with muck.
Christian walked on by himself until he met a gentleman called Mr Worldly-Wiseman from the town of Carnal-Policy. He had heard of Christian's departure and asked him why he was so burdened and where he was going.
Christian "I am travelling to the Wicket-Gate, where I am told that my heavy burden will be taken away."
W-Wiseman "Will you listen to me?"
Christian "If it is good I will; for I need wise counsel."
W-Wiseman "I advise you to get rid of your burden! Then you can enjoy God's blessings."
Christian "That is just what I want, but there is no one in our country who can remove it."
W-Wiseman "Who told you to go this way?"
Christian "Mr Evangelist, a good and honourable man."
W-Wiseman "Yes, he has sent many down this dangerous path. You mark my words, if you follow his advice it will lead you into nothing but trouble, pain, hunger and needless difficulty. Why do you risk so much on the word of a stranger?"
Christian "But I don't mind what I have to put up with so long as this burden is removed."
W-Wiseman "How did you get your burden?"
Christian "By reading this book."
W-Wiseman "I thought so! Many weak men like you have meddled in matters that are beyond them. They rush out on desperate adventures towards an unknown goal!"
Christian "I know my goal - to have my burden removed!"
W-Wiseman "Let me tell you a much easier way. Less than a mile from here is the village of Morality where the wise old Mr Legality lives with his son Civility. Both of them are very skilled and have helped many men take off their burdens. There are some empty houses there too so you could send for your wife and family and live happily among honest neighbours."
Christian "How do I find this honest man?"
W-Wiseman "You go by this hill and Mr Legality lives in the first house you come to."
Christian left his way to go and find him. As he was passing the hill it seemed to over-hang. Christian stood still with fright and his burden seemed to be even heavier. Suddenly fire came out of the mountain, and he was sorry that he listened to Mr Worldly-Wiseman. At the same moment he saw Mr Evangelist who looked so stern that it made him blush with shame.
Evangelist "Aren't you the man that cried in the City of Destruction and whom I directed to the Wicket-Gate? Why are you over here, so far from the way?"
Christian "I met a gentleman who persuaded me that my burden could be more easily removed by Mr Legality. I stopped here because of the great danger; but did not know what to do next."
Evangelist "In your book it is written, 'My righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him.' (Heb 1038) Do not reject what God has told you."
At this Christian fell down crying, "Woe to me, I am ruined." Then he felt Evangelist lift him up and say,
Evangelist "'I tell you the truth, all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them.' (Mk 328) 'Stop doubting and believe.' (Jn 2027) Let me show you where you went wrong. The name of the man you met is Worldly-Wiseman. You must hate these things about his advice:-
1. He caused you to leave the way and the counsel of God. 'Enter by the narrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.' (Math 713,14)
2. He tried to make the Cross seem foolish to you. You must 'regard it as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt.' (Heb 1126) For the King has said, 'Whoever wants to save his life will lose it.' (Math 1625)
3. His way leads only to death. Legality is the son of the Bond-Woman. She and all her children will always remain as slaves. The mountain you were so afraid of was Mt Sinai. No one in this village was ever released from their burden. 'By observing the law no-one will be justified'." (Gal 216)
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Then Evangelist called to the heavens to confirm what he had said. Christian went rigid with fear as he saw fire come out of the mountain and heard a voice say, "All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: 'cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law'." (Gal 310) He wondered if there was any hope for him; whether he would ever be forgiven and arrive at the Wicket-Gate. Evangelist then assured him that the Man at the Gate would receive him; and embracing him, warned him to take great care not to turn aside again. Christian then went on in haste. When he arrived at the Gate, he was able to read the words written above it. 'Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.' (Math 77) He knocked several times wondering if the Gate would be opened to one so undeserving. At last Mr Good-will came to the Gate and asked who was there.
Christian "It is a poor burdened sinner from the City of Destruction, but I am going to Mount Zion so that I may escape from the wrath to come. Please, Sir, would you let me in?"
Good-will quickly opened the Gate and grabbed Christian, pulling him in. Then he explained that there was a strong castle nearby commanded by Captain Beelzebub, and he took great delight in shooting arrows at anyone trying to enter. Seeing Christian tremble, Good-will said, 'See, I have placed before you an open door that no-one can shut.' (Rev 38) He asked him about his journey, who he had met and why was he alone. Good-will then showed him the narrow way. "It is a road that was made by the Patriarchs and prophets, by Christ and his Apostles. It is the only one that is absolutely straight, though there are many others branching off it that look easier."
Christian asked if he could ease the burden on his back. "No," he said, "You must carry it until you come to the place of deliverance. There it will fall off."
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
He also told him that he would shortly come to the Interpreter's House, where if he knocked he would be shown many excellent things. Christian thanked his friend and said goodbye.
As he was now much encouraged, he quickly came to the Interpreter's House, where he knocked and asked if he might speak with the Master. Having told him where he came from and where he was going, the Master lit a candle and began to show him many profitable things.
In a bare room there was a picture on the wall of a man with his eyes lifted up to heaven and the best of Books in his hand. The world was behind him. Words of Truth were on his lips as he pleaded with men, showing them the way in difficult times. There was a crown of gold above his head, his certain reward in the world to come.
He took him into another very large room that was full of dust. He asked someone to sweep it, but the air was soon so full of dust that they could hardly breathe. He then asked for some water to be sprinkled on the floor so that it could be swept easily. The room is the heart of a man who knows nothing of the Gospel of grace. The dust is a man's sin. The first sweeper is the Law. The water is the Gospel, without which sweeping only makes more mess.
The next was a small room in which two children were seated. Passion was very discontented, and like Dives, he wanted all the good things now, in this world. But Patience was quiet. She was willing to wait for the good things that are to come. They are not only the better for the waiting, but will last for ever. 'For what is seen is temporal, but what is unseen is eternal.' (2 Co 418)
The Interpreter took Christian to a place where there was a fire burning against a wall. There was one who kept pouring on buckets of water to extinguish the flames; but he failed. The flames only burned higher and hotter. The fire is the work of grace in the heart of a man, which the Devil is always trying to extinguish. On the far side of the wall, Christ is secretly and continually pouring the oil of his grace into the fire.
Christian was then shown a palace. In the entrance there was a man seated at a table recording names. He saw one entering, and his name was written down. He then put on his helmet and drew his sword, for to get into the Palace, he had to go past many armed men who barred his way. He fought them all and eventually secured a way through. He was greeted with, "Come in, come in: eternal glory you shall win." Christian desired to continue his journey, but the Interpreter had more to show him.
In a very dark room sat a very sad man in an iron cage. "Once I was on the way to the Celestial city, but now there is no hope, none at all. I have grieved the Spirit and he has gone, I have tempted the Devil and he has come, I have so hardened my heart that I cannot repent. I enjoyed the lusts, the pleasures and profits of this world so much. Now there remains for me nothing but fiery indignation and certain judgment," he wailed. On hearing this, Christian wisely asked God to help him to watch and be sober and to pray, that he might avoid the cause of this man's misery.
Lastly he was shown a man who had dreamed of the great day of Judgement. He saw a Man seated upon the clouds who called for the dead to arise. He had a Book in his hand. "Gather the tares and burn them," he said. "And gather the wheat into my barn." Many were taken away but the man was left behind. He tried to hide, but the Judge kept his eyes on him. When he woke up he trembled greatly because he felt he was not ready for this great day.
As Christian considered each of these things they filled him with both hope and fear. Then the Interpreter said to him, "May the Comforter be always with you, good Christian, to guide you in the way that leads to the City."
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Walls of Salvation and the Cross
So Christian continued his journey with the Walls of Salvation on either side. He was so eager, but the load on his back made the going very difficult.
When he came to a place where there stood a Cross his burden fell off and it rolled into an open Sepulchre that was just below. Christian was so glad: "The Lord has given me rest by his sorrow, and life by his death." As he pondered why the sight of the Cross should release his burden, his eyes filled with tears.
Then I saw in my dream three Shining Ones greet him.
The first then said, "Your sins are forgiven." The second removed his rags and gave him a new set of clean clothes. The third put a mark on his forehead and gave him a scroll with the King's seal on it.
Christian then began to sing:
This far have I come, laden with my sin;
For nothing could ease the grief that I was in,
But here the burden did fall from off my back
And here the strings that bound it to me cracked.
O blessed Cross! and far more blessed be
The Man who here was put to death for me!
When he had finished the song, he came to a bend and found three men sleeping beside the road, Simple, Sloth and Presumption. Christian tried to wake them up and offered to take off their leg-irons. He also warned them of the roaring lion that was hungry for such easy meat.
Simple "I see no danger."
Sloth "Let me sleep a little longer."
Presumption "Every vat must stand on its own bottom."
[or everyone must stand on their own two feet]
So they went back to sleep. And Christian continued his journey, but he was troubled that they were so careless of their danger.
Formalist and Hypocrisy, who had come from Vain-glory, climbed over the wall just ahead of him. So Christian asked them why they had not come through the Wicket-Gate, 'For the man who does not enter by the gate, but climbs in by another way, is a thief and a robber.' (Jn 101) They said that to go via the Wicket-Gate would add miles to their journey so it had been the custom for many years to take this short-cut. Christian cautioned them that they did so at their own risk and that he doubted whether the Judge would like their excuse. They even laughed when Christian told them how he had been given a mark and a scroll with the King's seal.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Soon they came to the Hill called Difficulty, which the others did not wish to climb. Formalist took the way called Danger, where he was soon lost in a wood. And Hypocrisy opted for the way called Destruction, where he slipped and was fatally injured.
As Christian began to climb, he said to himself:
This hill though high I must ascend,
The difficulty will not offend;
For I perceive the Way of Life lies here.
Come lift my heart, I will not faint or fear!
Better, though difficult, the right way to go,
Than wrong, though easy, where the end is woe.
Soon the going was so tough that Christian had to clamber on his hands and knees. It went on and on, and he still could not see the top. But at last he came to a small hut, which the Lord of the Hill had made, where weary climbers could rest. He began to read his scroll with the seal and thought about how kind God had been to him. Then his eyes closed, he went fast asleep, and the scroll dropped from his hands. It was evening when he woke up. He had just been dreaming that someone had come to him and said, 'Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise.' (Prov 66) Christian left in haste and almost ran up the rest of the Hill.
When he reached the top, he met Timorous and Mistrust running in the opposite direction. They told him that the way seemed to become even more difficult and that they had just seen two lions lying in wait for them. It was all too muchfor them, so they were going back home. Christian did not know what to do.
He was about to read the scroll when he realised that he had left it in the hut where he fell asleep. He was most distressed at this loss, and fell to his knees pleading for forgiveness for doing such a foolish thing. He decided to return to the hut. When he came in sight of it he began to weep again. When he entered he could not see his scroll for his tears had half-blinded him. If only he had not been so careless. As he realised that the Lord of the Hill had made the hut for refreshment, not for sleep, his eyes cleared and he was able to see his scroll.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Giving thanks to God, Christian re-climbed the hill. It was night now and he reflected that lions seek their prey at night! As he wondered about his chances, he saw a house that was called Beautiful.
A moment later he suddenly saw the lions only two hundred metres from the door. Watchful, the Porter, noticed that Christian had stopped, so he called out to him not to be afraid,"The lions are chained." But Christian could not see the chains, so it was with great fear that he went past them and reached the safety of the house that was built for the relief and security of Pilgrims.
Watchman called Discretion, who asked Christian where he came from and where he was travelling to. Being delighted at his reply, she called the rest of the family, Prudence, Piety and Charity. They welcomed him saying, "Come in, for you are blessed by the Lord."
Piety asked why he had left his old country and what he had learned at the house of the Interpreter. When Prudence asked him if he still thought about the old country, he said yes, but with much shame. Then he told her how much he longed to be in Mt Zion and meet him who hung on the Cross and now lives there. Charity asked about his family and why they were not with him. This caused Christian to weep for he had repeatedly pleaded with them and prayed to no avail.
Their conversation continued over supper and on late into the night. They told Christian much about what the Lord of the Hill had done because he did not want to live in Mt Zion alone. Then Christian was given the room at the top of the house called Peace, where he slept well.
In the morning he saw the sunrise and sang:
Where am I now? Is this the love and care
Of Jesus, for the men that Pilgrims are,
Thus to provide that I should be forgiven,
And dwell already the next door to heaven!
He spent the whole day reading the records of the deeds of many of Lord's servants. How they had stopped the mouths of lions, put out fire, wrought righteousness, obtained promises and had been brave in the fight.
On the following day he was taken to the armoury where the Lord kept many helmets, swords, shields, breastplates and shoes. There he was given one of each. He also saw Moses' rod, Jael's hammer and nail, David's sling, Gideon's trumpets, the jawbone that Samson had used, and even the sword that would one day be used to slay the Man of Sin.
Again the day dawned clear and it was easy to see the beautiful country of Immanuel's Land. From there, he was told you could easily see the gate of the Celestial City. Encouraged by these things, Christian was determined to continue his journey.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
But first he had to descend to the Valley of Humiliation. This was dangerous so Discretion, Prudence, Piety and Charity accompanied him; nonetheless he still slipped twice, though not seriously. They gave him some food and drink, and departed.
It seemed no time at all before Christian saw Apollyon, a renowned and formidable dragon, who was blocking his path. He could not run away since he had no armour to cover his back: he could only stand and fight.
Apollyon "I see you are one of my subjects; since I am Prince and god of all the land that you come from. Why do you try to run away from your king?"
Christian "It is true I was born there, but your service was hard and your wages were insufficient to live. For 'the wages of sin is death.'" (Rom 623)
Apollyon "No Prince will willingly lose his men. Go back and I will promise to pay you whatever we can afford."
Christian "I have now given my allegiance to the King of kings, so I will not return as you may wish. To tell you the truth his country better than yours! and I like his service, his wages, and his servants."
Apollyon "You have already failed. You missed the step in the Slough of Despond. You disobeyed and tried to go to see Legality. You went to sleep and lost your scroll. You almost went back at the sight of the lions. Your new King will not be pleased with your performance so far, and there are many, many more sins you will yet commit."
Christian "All that you say is true, but the Prince that I now serve is merciful and he has already pardoned me for each of these offenses."
Apollyon "I hate this Prince; I hate him and his laws, and his people. I shall stop you going another single step forward."
Christian "Beware what you do, Apollyon, for I am in the King's Highway, the Way of Holiness. So beware!"
Apollyon "Prepare yourself to die."
Apollyon was very angry and immediately threw a spear at Christian who deflected it with his shield. He then threw so many darts that there seemed no end to the volley. Some struck Christian and the wounds weakened him. So Apollyon, seizing the opportunity, moved forward and knocked him to the ground so that his sword slipped from his grasp. Apollyon was now sure of victory and was preparing his final blow. But Christian managed to grab his sword and cried out, 'Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise.' (Mic 78) And with these words he struck Apollyon a deadly blow. Christian rose to his feet and struck him again saying, 'In all these things we are more than conquerors.' (Rom 837) Apollyon then fled using his dragon's wings and was not seen again.
Christian gave thanks to God for his deliverance and for sending Michael to his aid. Just then a hand appeared with leaves from the Tree of Life, so that his wounds were instantly healed. Christian was also refreshed by the food and drink which the ladies of Beautiful House had given him.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
The valley led into another called The Valley of the Shadow of Death - a dark and most solitary place. Jeremiah described it as a 'barren wilderness, a land of deserts and rifts, of drought and darkness where no-one (except a Christian) travels and no-one lives.' (Jer 26) As Christian entered two men ran out and strongly advised him to do the same since it was a most fearful place. On one side of the narrow path there was a deep ditch into which the blind lead the blind. On the other side are quicksands. It was here that King David fell, and would have quickly died if help had not been close at hand. It was dark, so dark that you could not even see one step ahead.
About half-way down the valley, as he was passing the mouth of Hell, there were flames and hideous noises. Try as he might, Christian's sword was useless to stop them. His only weapon was All-Prayer. So he earnestly cried to the Lord to deliver his soul. Several times he felt demons about to attack him so he shouted, 'It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.' (2 Sam 2233)
At times there was so much noise that poor Christian was confused: he didn't know whether it was he who was blaspheming or whether it was the voice of demons in his ear. The possibility that he might have said such things against the Lord he loved, distressed him. At one time he thought he heard someone shouting, 'Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.' (Ps 234) It was a great encouragement that if God was with this unseen pilgrim, then he would be with Christian too.
At last, the dawn began to break and he could see just how narrow the way was. The demons and fiends kept their distance. But he was not clear of the valley yet; if anything it was more dangerous. There were many snares and traps, nets and deep holes. If it had been as dark as it had been earlier there was no way that he could have made it safely to the end. Thankfully, 'His lamp shone upon my head and by his light I walked through darkness.' (Job 293)
At the end of the valley Christian saw the bones and blood and ashes of many pilgrims, for nearby was a cave that was the home of two giants, Pope and Pagan. They were both old now and had lost much of their power. Christian only saw Pope grinning at the mouth of the cave. Later he learned that Pagan had died some years earlier.
I saw in my dream that the way was easier now. Christian saw another traveller ahead. He called out for him to wait, but he would not. Christian summoned all his strength and overtook Faithful. He was so pleased to have got ahead of him that he did not notice a stone in the road and he fell down. Faithful helped him up and the two went on together, gladly talking of their adventures. Faithful told him about how he had met Adam the First from Deceit.
Faithful "He told me that his watch-word was Many Delights, and for wages that I could be his heir and have many servants. Also he had three daughters, 'Lust of the Eyes', 'Lust of the Flesh' and 'The pride of Life' (1 Jn 216) - I could marry one of them if I liked. "It all seemed very pleasant and I was inclined to go with him, when I noticed on his forehead was written, 'Put off the old man with his deeds.' (Col 39) Only then did I realise that he was a flatterer and one who made false promises. In reality he only wanted me for one of his slaves. I hurriedly left him although he tried to grab me as I turned away.
"When in the Valley of Humiliation I met Discontent, who tried to persuade me to turn back because the valley was totally without honour. Many of his friends did not like it either: Pride, Arrogance, Conceit and Glory. So I told him that, 'Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honour.' (Prov 1812)
"I also met Shame, but it seemed that he was wrongly named. He said that a tender conscience was unmanly, that religion was pitiful, and anyhow none - or at least very few - of the wise or wealthy had any time for it. Pilgrims were nearly always poor, ignorant people who had no scientific knowledge. I wasn't sure how to answer him at first but then it seemed to me that this Shame tells us much of what man is like, but nothing about God. For God loves a tender conscience: he says that those who are fools for the Kingdom of God are wise. And he considers the poorest man who loves Christ is richer than the greatest man on earth that hates him. So I told him that I was not ashamed to love the Man of Sorrows. Repeatedly he tried to ridicule me and show me how foolish I was. He thought he could persuade me, but eventually he gave up and left."
Christian then told Faithful all about the Valley of the Shadow of Death. For when Faithful passed through the sun had shone; he had experienced none of the trials that Christian had to endure. There was no darkness or demons, nor any horrible cries or foul smells.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
The road now was wide and they saw Talkative going in the same direction - a fine, seemingly upright man. Faithful moved over to speak with him for he loved to discuss profitable things as they travelled.
Talkative "What can be more pleasant than to talk of miracles or signs that are so delightfully written of in the Scriptures. Further, a man by so doing can gain much knowledge of new birth and the need for Christ's righteousness. A man may learn what it is to repent and believe, to pray, to suffer, to know the great promises of the Gospel. He may also learn to refute false opinions and to instruct the ignorant."
Faithful "I'm so glad to hear such truth."
Talkative "Yes, it is sad that so few understand the need for faith or the necessity of God's grace in their soul. They feel that just living a good life is sufficient to enter heaven."
Faithful "But all heavenly knowledge is a gift of God. His revelation is not obtained just by talking about it."
Talkative "I agree, for a man cannot receive anything unless it is given to him from heaven. All is of grace, not of works."
Faithful was delighted with his new companion and went back to Christian to tell him. But Christian knew who he was because they came from the same town, so he warned him that the man was called Talkative, the son of Saywell who lived in Prating-Row.
Christian "He may seem good to you here, but at home he is not so. He may talk of prayer, repentance, faith and new birth but he does not practice what he preaches. His home is as empty of religion as the white of an egg is of flavour. All who know him say that 'He is a saint abroad, but a devil at home.' We must always remember that 'The kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.' (1 Co 420) Besides he has brought up his sons to follow in his ways; if they should ever begin to have a tender conscience, he immediately lays into them and calls them fools and block-heads. He has caused many to stumble and will probably ruin many more."
Faithful "Well, that is surprising. I know you would not tell me such things out of malice. In future I must be more aware of the distinction between saying and doing. It reminds me of what Moses said about clean animals. There are those which not only chew the cud but also part the hoof. This Talkative chews the cud but he does not practice parting the way of sin from that of righteousness."
Christian "That is right. Paul spoke of those without love as being 'only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.' (1 Co 131) Speak to him about the power of religion and when he approves, which he will, then ask him how he puts it into practice in his own home."
Faithful "Come, Mr Talkative let us discuss how the saving grace of God changes the heart of men."
Talkative "I see you wish to talk about the power of things. That is a good subject. My answer to you is quite brief. First, wherever the grace of God is, there is a great outcry against sin. Second, ... "
Faithful "Just a moment. Let us look at your first point. I think you should say there is a great abhorrence of sin."
Talkative "Why, what is the difference?"
Faithful "O there is a world of difference. A man can easily talk about how sinful it is to commit adultery, yet still lust greatly in his heart without abhorring the sin. Potiphar's wife did just that when she pretended that she was pure and so unjustly accused Joseph. Many men preach against the evil of sin from their pulpits, but bear no sorrow of sin in their hearts. But what was your second proof of saving grace going to be?"
Talkative "That there is great knowledge of the Gospel mysteries."
Faithful "This is lacking in the same way as your first proof. A man may know his Master's will, but decide not to do it. For Christ said to the disciples 'Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.' (Jn 1317) Indeed, knowledge pleases men, especially proud men; it is those who do good that please God. There are two types of knowledge. One that seems good but remains only in the head, and another that does what the mind has heard. The true Christian can never be content with the first, he must both hear and obey, or he will die. But maybe you have a third sign?"
Talkative "No, I don't. All you want to do is to try to pick holes in what I have said. There is no purpose in my continuing."
Faithful "May I do so then? Saving grace is well known to anyone who has received this gift of God. He hates his sinful nature, and is deeply ashamed at any remembrance of sin. He has heard God say, 'Your sins are forgiven.' (Lu 748) His constant desire is then to serve and obey his Master. He is not so much hungry for the blessings of God but is hungry for God himself. He delights in holiness; it is no longer something that he just knows he ought to be. Saving grace is therefore not only well known to the receiver but is also obvious to others because they see a changed life."
"Now may I ask another question? What is your experience of this saving grace? And please take care to say no more than God will confirm as being true."
Talkative "I did not expect such a question, and I am certainly not going to answer it. Why should I make you my teacher or my judge? Anyway, why do you ask me?"
Faithful "Because you were so quick to talk, but from what I have heard your own life is somewhat different from what you speak about. Your falsehood, your desire for wealth, your scheming and your lust have already caused many pilgrims to stumble."
Talkative "If you believe all that you are told so easily then I have no wish to continue in your company. Good-bye!"
Then Christian, who had heard their conversation, came up to Faithful.
Christian "Your word and his desires could never agree. He would rather leave your company than reform his life."
Faithful "Let us hope that my plain speaking with him may yet cause him to change."
Christian "You did well. I wish more men had the courage to speak as you did."
When they were nearly through the Wilderness, they saw their good friend Evangelist. He eagerly asked them about their journey and was thrilled that they had been victorious under their various trials.
Evangelist "I have sowed but you have reaped; one day we shall rejoice together. Remember that 'At the proper time we shall reap a harvest if we do not give up.' (Gal 69) Do not let any man steal your crown. For 'In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.' (Heb 124) So you must not take your eyes off your goal or allow yourselves to be deceived. You have experienced much already but remember that 'we must go through many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God.' (Act 1422) Paul testified that 'in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships await me.' (Act 2023) He says the same for you, for you are shortly coming to a town where one of you will be killed. 'Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer ... be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.' (Rev 210) The one who dies will have the better part. He will not only arrive at the Celestial City sooner, but he will not have to endure the many miseries that the other will meet on the rest of his journey. Now, commit your souls to God, who always keeps his word."
They soon came to Vanity, the town Evangelist had warned them of. For over five thousand years people had come to enjoy themselves and to buy and sell at the Vanity Fair. It was especially set up by Beelzebub and Apollyon, who ensured that it would be on the only route for pilgrims on their way to the Celestial City. Even the Prince of princes passed this way. They wanted to make him the Lord of the Fair, they offered him kingdoms, but he would have none of it. He passed through without buying anything. All forms of enticing merchandise are advertised for sale here, houses, lands, gold, jewels, honours, pleasures, drink, drugs and lusts of all sorts. Theft, murder, divorce, sodomy and abortion are common. And the language would make a sailor blush! But 'all is vanity.' (Ecc 12)
There was a great commotion when Christian and Faithful entered Vanity. They were wearing such strange clothes, and talked in what seemed to them to be a foreign language. The traders made them many sparkling offers and at rock bottom prices, but they put their fingers in their ears and cried, 'Turn my eyes away from worthless things.' (Ps 11937) They seemed offended by this and other things they said, like "we buy the truth."
The mocking and the commotion grew till the police had to be called. Christian and Faithful were taken for questioning. 'They confessed that they were pilgrims and strangers.' (Heb 1113) Also that although their country of origin was this world, their new nationality was the Heavenly Jerusalem. They claimed that the traders had abused them without any reason, except that they had walked passed without buying anything. The examining magistrates did not believe them, so they were beaten and put in a cage to be mocked and ridiculed by all. But they bore it all with patience and dignity. So much so that a few even said that they were quiet and sober and intended nobody any harm. This so angered the others that they demanded that they should die.
At a suitable time Christian and Faithful were brought before Judge Hate-good on a charge of being enemies of trade and of having contempt for their Prince.
Faithful "The first part of the charge I deny, but on the second part, your prince is only Beelzebub, and he is an enemy of my Lord, the Prince of princes. So he is my enemy too, and I will deny him all authority."
Envy gave evidence that the two pilgrims had many disloyal notions and 'Principles of Faith and Holiness' which could never be reconciled with the Laws of Vanity. They therefore condemn all our commendable works.
Superstition gave evidence (also on oath) that he had heard them say that the religion of their town was worthless; it could never please God.
Pick-thank told the court how he had heard that they had spoken against Prince Beelzebub and also against Lord Old-man, Lord Carnal-Delight, Lord Luxurious, Lord Desire-of-Vain-glory, Lord Lechery and Sir Having Greedy. They even called Judge Hate-good an ungodly villain.
The Judge told Faithful that he did not deserve to live a moment longer, but, so that all could see their justice, he should be allowed to defend himself.
Faithful "The evidence of Envy only requires me to remind you that any law of custom that is contrary to the Word of God cannot be reconciled with Christianity. If this is wrong then please tell me. In answer to Superstition, I say that the worship of God requires faith and divine revelation. Without this truth no amount of human effort can make it acceptable. Mr Pick-thank's evidence is quite correct. The Prince of this town and his supporting rabble are more fit to be in Hell than here. So may the Lord have mercy upon me."
Hate-good "Men of the jury, I must instruct you from case history. Pharaoh, a servant of our Prince, once gave orders that all the male children should be killed. Nebuchadnezzar (another worthy servant of the Prince) made a Law that whoever would not worship his golden image should be thrown in a fiery furnace. Later Darius also made a decree that anyone who prayed to any god but him should be fed to the lions. This man Faithful has likewise, by his own confession, disobeyed our law. He therefor deserves the death penalty."
It was not surprising that the Jury, led by the foreman, Mr Blindman, confirmed a guilty verdict. So Faithful was condemned to die by the most cruel death that could be invented. He was beaten, cut with knives, stoned and finally burnt. Then I saw a chariot and two horses waiting for Faithful. He was carried up through the clouds and went by the shortest way to the Celestial City. And I heard the trumpets sound.
Meanwhile Christian was remanded back to prison, where he stayed until God, who overrules all things, opened a way for him to escape. So Christian sang:
Well, Faithful, you have faithfully professed
Unto your Lord, with whom you shall be blessed;
When faithless ones, with all their vain delights
Are crying out under their hellish plights,
Sing, Faithful, sing, and let your name survive;
For, though they killed you, you are yet alive.
Christian did not leave Vanity alone. Hopeful had observed the witness of both Christian and Faithful, and it had convinced him that theirs was the true way to eternal life. He told Christian that there were many others who would almost certainly follow later on. So it proved again the truth, 'that a martyr never dies in vain.'
Christian and Hopeful set off at a good pace and soon caught up with Mr By-ends from Fair-speech. Knowing little about that town they asked him about it, and who lived there.
By-ends "It is a wealthy place. There are not many
of us, but I am related to most of the people. There is Lord Turnabout, Mr
Smooth-Man, Mr Face-Both-Ways, Mr Anything, and the parson is Rev Two-Tongues.
My grandfather was just a waterman, looking one way and rowing another. My
wife is Lady Feigning's daughter. Concerning religion we have two main
principles:
1. Never strive against wind and tide.
2. We love the religious occasions, when the sun shines and
all the people clap and cheer."
Christian "What you say makes me think that your name is By-ends."
By-ends "It is not really my name but some do call me that. I have to bear it as other good men have had to bear such jests. But I hope that it will not prevent my continuing in your company?"
Christian "If you wish to go with us you will have to go against both wind and tide. We often have to walk in poverty and rags. And you will rarely receive the praise of men."
By-ends "You cannot impose such restrictions on my liberty as this."
Christian "Then we can no longer walk together."
By-ends "I will never desert my old principles for they are both harmless and profitable. You carry on; many others will be glad of my company."
And sure enough there soon appeared Hold-the-World, Money-Love and Save-All, who were three old school friends of By-ends. Their teacher had been Mr Gripeman of Love-Gain in County Coveting. From this schoolmaster they had learned the art of getting what they wanted by violence, flattery, lies or even by pretending to be religious. So it was not surprising that they agreed that Christian and Hopeful were far too strict and intolerant for them. They needed to learn from the bees and only fly when the sun shines and then lie still in their hive when winter comes. Besides why shouldn't a Christian be rich and enjoy life if he has the opportunity? After all, Abraham and Solomon did. Thinking their argument had no flaws, they decided to ask Christian this question. With a little effort By-ends and his 3 friends managed to catch up with the pilgrims.
Christian "Why do you ask such a simple question? Surely you know that it is not lawful to follow Christ for loaves. And there are many other examples. Jesus roundly condemned some Pharisees, who said long prayers to impress the audience, but their real intent was to gain widows' houses. There was Judas who loved the money-bag; he ended up a traitor and hanged himself. Simon the wizard was foolish enough to try to buy the Holy Spirit. Any man who takes up religion for gain in this world will just as easily forsake it for the world. I perceive that your question was hypocritical and devilish; may your reward be like your works."
The four stood still, amazed and silent. So Christian said to Hopeful, "If they cannot stand the sentence of men, what will they do with the sentence of God?"
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Christian and Hopeful made good progress through the district of Ease, a pleasant but short part of the journey. Then they came to a hill called Lucre, where there was a silver mine. Close by stood Demas. He had been very successful in persuading travellers to visit the mine. Many had died doing so and all the rest had been badly maimed. It seemed very interesting to Hopeful and he had half a mind to go and see. He was only saved because Christian showed him just how dangerous it was. They were not surprised to notice that By-ends and his friends responded immediately to the invitation of Demas. What happened to them nobody knew, but they were never seen again.
The pilgrims came next to an old Monument that seemed to have the form of a woman. After careful examination they found that on the head were the words 'Remember Lot's wife.' (Lu 1732) Because of her covetous heart, she looked backed with longing to Sodom and became a pillar of salt. Then they realised that the invitation of men like Demas are most dangerous to those who would be pilgrims. For Lot's wife did not go back to Sodom, she had only looked back. Hopeful was greatly convicted of his foolishness in wanting to go to see the mine. And was amazed that God had spared him. It seemed to him that his sin had been as great if not greater than hers.
This led them to recall the judgement of men who rebelled against God. Korah, Dathan, Abiram and many others. They therefore resolved to do all they could to stay in the way of righteousness. They also wondered how Demas could continue to seek treasure when reminded of such foolishness every time he saw this Monument.
Christian and Hopeful came next to a most pleasant river from which they drank. It very quickly revived their weary spirits. There were trees on each side laden with fruit and leaves which were excellent for healing wounds and diseases. Lilies grew in the meadow; their smell was heavenly. What better or safer place to rest for a few days than by the 'River of the Water of Life'? It would have been lovely to have stayed longer, but their journey was not yet complete.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
The path soon became rough with many sharp stones, which discouraged the Pilgrims. It so happened that as they continued they noticed a grass field, By-path Meadow, which ran alongside as far as they could see. There was even a stile. Christian was delighted at the prospect of an easier surface to walk on, but Hopeful was not so sure it was the right way. They crossed the style and soon met Vain-Confidence who confirmed that the path in the meadow led to the Celestial City. When night fell it was cloudy, there was no moon or stars. Vain-confidence, who had gone on ahead, fell head-first into a quarry (The quarry had been made by the Prince of that land especially to kill such proud, careless men.) It began to rain hard and the thunder was so loud that they were very frightened. Hopeful groaned to himself, wishing he had kept to the stony path. And Christian said how sorry he was that he had persuaded him it was the right way. Hopeful forgave him saying that even this would be for their good. They tried hard to find the stile again but the flood made it impossible. They did find a little shelter beside a tree where they waited till daybreak. But being tired they fell asleep.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Giant Despair found them in the morning as he was out walking in his fields. Since they were trespassers on his land he took them to Doubting Castle and locked them in a dark dungeon. They saw no one for four days. Christian had a double sorrow since he blamed himself for their plight.
Giant Despair told his wife, Diffidence, about his new prisoners. She thought they should be beaten without mercy. This the Giant was glad to do.
The following day, when she learned that they were somehow still alive, she suggested that they should be given knives to end their own lives. When Despair saw how sore they were from the previous day's beating he gloated over them. Then following his wife's suggestion, he told them that they should kill themselves, since they would never come out of the dungeon alive.
Christian "Brother, what shall we do? I do not know whether it is better to live or to die. The grave seems easier to me than this dungeon."
Hopeful "Death would be more welcome to me than to remain here. But the Lord of the country to which we are going has said, 'You shall not murder.' (Exd 2013) Therefore we must not kill another person, or ourselves. Besides, 'No murderer has eternal life in him.' (1 Jn 315) It may be that God who made the world will provide a way for us to escape."
That evening Despair came to the dungeon and was very angry to find that they had not taken his advice. He warned them severely that it would be the worse for them and they would wish they had never been born. At this Christian and Hopeful trembled greatly for they knew that the giant meant what he had said.
Hopeful "My Brother, let us remember the past, how even Apollyon could not kill you, how you overcame your fear in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and the courage you demonstrated in Vanity Fair. There you did not fear chain or cage or even a bloody death. So let us endeavour to be patient in our suffering."
Next morning Giant Despair took his prisoners to the castle yard to see a pile of bones and skulls. "They were all trespassers like you, and none of them escaped." He then beat them all the way back to the dungeon, where he locked them in again. At about midnight they began to pray and continued for several hours. It was almost dawn when Christian suddenly stood up.
Christian "What a fool I have been to lie in a stinking dungeon when I could walk free! In my pocket there is a key called Promise that will open any lock in Doubting Castle."
This was good news indeed. The key turned easily In the dungeon lock. Then it also opened the door that led into the castle yard. The big iron gate was more difficult but the key unlocked that one too. When they opened the door, the hinges creaked loud enough to wake the Giant. He was so annoyed that he had one of his fits and was unable to pursue them.
So Christian and Hopeful came to the King's Highway again. At the stile where they went astray, they engraved a notice. Many future travellers had good cause to be grateful for this warning and escape the danger of straying into the land of Giant Despair and Doubting Castle.
Out of the way we went, and then we found
That we were treading upon forbidden ground;
Let them that come after have a care
Lest heedless they as we did fare,
Lest they for trespass, his prisoners are,
Whose castle's Doubting and whose name's Despair.
Soon they came to the Delectable Mountains. These belong to the Lord of Glory who had planted vineyards and where there were many springs of clear water. At the top they met the shepherds who told them this was commonly called Immanuel's Land, from which you can see the Celestial City. The Lord of these Mountains had told them, 'Do not forget to entertain strangers.' (Heb 132)
So seeing the pilgrims' dress and hearing their story, Knowledge, Experience, Watchful and Sincere welcomed Christian and Hopeful. They were fed well, and as it was late in the evening, they were given tents in which to sleep the night.
In the morning the shepherds showed them the precipice called Error. At the bottom were the bones of Hymenaeus, Philetus and several others. (2 Tim 217) They remain unburied as a perpetual example.
The shepherds pointed out the place called Caution, where there were many blind men wandering among the graves - men who had crossed the stile and took the easy way through By-path Meadow. They had been found by Giant Despair who put out their eyes and left them to wander there. At this Christian and Hopeful said nothing, but their eyes filled with tears.
Near the bottom of the mountains there was a door in the side of the cliff. The shepherds opened it and told them to look inside. They smelled the smoke and saw the fire and heard the cries of tormented men. "It is a By-way to Hell, the way that hypocrites go. Men like Esau who sold his birthright, Judas who sold his Master, Ananias and Sapphira his wife who lied when they sold a field. These had been on pilgrimage, like you, but they did not complete the journey." Christian and Hopeful agreed that they needed to cry all the more to the Lord for strength.
Lastly they all climbed the hill called Clear. There the shepherds gave them a telescope, but their hands were still shaking from seeing the By-way to Hell, so they only vaguely saw the Celestial City.
As they departed:
Knowledge gave them a map of the way,
Experience told them to beware of the Flatterer,
Watchful warned them not to sleep on the Enchanted Ground and
Sincere bid them, "God speed."
In the country of Conceit they met Ignorance who said that he was going to the Celestial City.
Christian "Do you have anything to show at the Gate, that it should be opened for you?"
Ignorance "I know my Lord's will and have lived well; I pray and give to charity and I have left my old country."
Christian "But obviously you did not enter the way by the Wicket-Gate and you have not travelled along the Walls of Salvation, else you would be wearing different clothes and would have a scroll with a seal. I am afraid that you may be thought to be 'a robber and a thief'." (Jn 101)
Ignorance "We come from different countries and so we have different means of arriving at the way. The Gate you mentioned is far too far away for men from our country. It is best if you keep to your religion and I keep to mine."
It was obvious to them both that Ignorance was so wise in his own eyes that he was unwilling to hear any correction. They therefore decided to press on and maybe speak to him again later.
Christian told Hopeful the story of a man called Little-Faith from Sincere. He was going on pilgrimage when three rogues, Faint-heart, Mistrust, and Guilt, attacked him and took his silver. They ran away when they thought that they heard Great-Grace from Good-Confidence. The robbery weakened him for the rest of his life; he could not stop thinking about his awful experience. But fortunately they did not find his scroll.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
So I saw in my dream that they came to where there was a fork in the road and as both seemed to be going towards their goal, they did not know which one to take. Then they saw a man standing in a white robe who said that he was going their way and would direct them. So they followed. As they went they noticed that their path slowly turned away from the Celestial City, but they continued to follow the man. Suddenly they were caught in a net and the white robe fell off the man. Only then did they realise that he was Flatterer; the very person that the shepherds had warned them of. 'Whoever flatters his neighbour is spreading a net for his feet.' (Prov 295)
Then they remembered that they had also been given a map but they hadn't bothered looking at it. They deeply regretted their folly and lay crying in the net until a Shining One appeared. He set them free from the net and led them back to the pathway. Then he asked them how they became trapped. They told him everything and did not make any excuses, for truly there was none that held any water. The Shining One told them to lie down. Then he chastised them with a small whip and said, "'Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.' (Rev 319) So be earnest and repent." Then he told them to continue their way and to take heed to all the directions of the shepherds.
After some time they met a man with his back towards Zion. Atheist was his name and he laughed loudly when they told him they were on their way to Mt Zion.
Atheist "How can you be so ignorant? All this difficult journey and nothing at the end of it!" Then he laughed even more. "You're just a pair of dreamers! I have been seeking such a place for over 20 years and have been much farther than you. No, I am on my way home and suggest you do the same."
Hopeful then cautioned Christian.
Hopeful "Take care. He is another of the Flatterers. Remember the shepherds showed us Mt Zion when we were on the Delectable Mountains. We have seen it with our own eyes. Remember? Let us go on and let us be 'of those who believe and are saved'." (Heb 1039)
Christian "You are right. This man is blinded by the god of this world. Let us go on."
Hopeful "Now I rejoice in the hope of the Glory of God."
The air in the next part of their journey made them drowsy. So much so that Hopeful wanted to lie down and sleep. But Christian would not allow him to do so, for he feared that if they did, they would never wake up again.
Christian "This is the Enchanted Ground. 'So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled'." (1 Thes 56)
Hopeful "Now I see why it is said that 'two are better than one.' (Ecc 49) If I had been alone then I would certainly have been lost."
Christian "Let us have a good discussion to ward off this drowsiness."
So they talked for some time together about how they first desired to go on pilgrimage; how God had brought their conscience to life and stirred up such a conviction of sin that they wept greatly. They spoke of how the grace of God and the Word of God brought hope because Jesus Christ was revealed. Their hearts were greatly gladdened when they learned of his sacrifice and his forgiveness, which was accompanied by a desire to live a holy life and to bring honour to their Saviour. It was a goodly conversation.
They had nearly come to the end of the Enchanted Ground so they waited for Ignorance hoping that he might have changed his mind.
Christian "How is your soul before God?"
Ignorance "Well, I hope, for my mind is full of God and of heaven."
Christian "But even devils and damned souls do that."
Ignorance "Yes, but I also desire them."
Christian "So do many who are unlikely to receive them.
'The sluggard craves and gets nothing'." (Prov 134)
Ignorance "I prove my desire by leaving all for them."
Christian "Very few really do that. How do know that you have left all?"
Ignorance "Because my own heart confirms it."
Christian "The wise man says, 'He who trusts in himself is a fool.' (Prov 2826) The Word of God says, 'every inclination of the thoughts of his heart are only evil all the time'." (Gen 55 821 and Jer 118)
Ignorance "I will never believe that my heart is that bad."
Christian "Then you consider yourself wiser than the Word of God! It also shows that you think your need of Christ is much less than it is."
Ignorance "O I believe that Christ died for sinners. How else could he make all that I do acceptable to the Father."
Christian "No man can earn God's acceptance. For 'the wages of sin is death.' And a dead man can neither work nor earn anything. But righteousness and 'eternal life are in Christ Jesus our Lord, it is the gift of God.' (Rom 623) It is given only to those who know that Jesus has done for us what we can never do. He offered himself to God the only perfect sacrifice for sin - and God accepted it because it was perfect. When considering salvation, even my best is very imperfect. 'All our righteous acts are like filthy rags.' (Is 646) No man can earn God's approval, it is solely by the grace and mercy of God that any man may be saved."
Ignorance "But it is not only what Christ has done. I must also prove my decision to live a good life. God will not save me unless I cease to do evil."
Christian "Your name is Ignorance; and rightly so! For you will not hear what Jesus and the Word of God say about how a man may be saved. You would rather trust your own thoughts than cry to God for him to reveal the only way to heaven. You need to see your own wretchedness and need to plead with God for him to reveal the truth."
Ignorance then decided that he could not keep up with Christian and Hopeful, so he told them to go on ahead. This they did, though they were sad that he should remain so blind and not realise it.
They continued their conversation together by considering how 'the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.' (Prov 910) It not only brings conviction of sin but it continues to keep men in reverence of God, and afraid of anything that may dishonour their Lord. They recalled Temporary and Turnback who lived nearby in Graceless, both of whom started on pilgrimage but gave up after they became friends of Mr Save-self. As it is written, 'a dog returns to its vomit.' (2 Pe 222)
This shows that guilt may cause a man to depart from some sin but unless there is a real work of God in his soul, the enjoyment of sin will cause him to return to it. The fear of the Lord will help to wither the attraction of sin, so that it soon dies. This is also true when presumption of righteousness causes the heart to become proud. It loses all sense of Hell and the coming judgement. Fear is a friend of humility. Together they keep the conscience tender and the eyes alert to the first sign of sin.
By now Christian and Hopeful had nearly finished their journey, for here the Spring air was fresh, the birds sang, the flowers were in full bloom, the sun never set and it was common to meet the Shining Ones. They heard many voices saying, 'Daughter of Zion, see, your Saviour comes.' (Is 6211) and 'as the Bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.' (Is 625)
As they walked through the King's vineyards and gardens they could see the City and were so beside themselves for joy that they hardly knew whether to sing or cry.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
Then I saw in my dream that two men whose clothes that shone like gold in bright sunlight spoke with Christian and Hopeful as they completed the last part of their journey. But when they came to the River they were puzzled to see that there was no bridge or boat to cross it. The Shining Ones told them that they had to go through the waters alone or they could not arrive at the Gate. There was no other way; only Enoch and Elijah had ever been allowed to enter without going through the river. So the two friends began to cross over.
Christian "'I am come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me'." (Ps 692)
Hopeful "Have courage, my brother, I can feel the bottom and it is firm."
Christian "'The waves of death swirled about me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me'." (2 Sam 225)
Here Christian was troubled by the thought of sins he had committed and he thought he saw evil spirits. Hopeful had great difficulty in keeping the head of his friend above water.
Hopeful "I see the Gate and men standing on the bank to receive us."
Christian "It is you they are waiting for, not me. You have been hopeful ever since I met you."
Hopeful "And so have you. These troubles are not a sign that God has forsaken you. They are only meant to test your spirit; to see if you will now call to mind the goodness of our God. Behold, 'Jesus Christ makes you whole'." (Acts 934)
Christian "I see him again! and he tells me, 'when you pass through the waters I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you'." (Is 432)
With these words they were both encouraged and the Enemy became as still as a stone.
When they reached the other side their mortal garments were left behind in the river and two Shining Ones helped them up the steep hill. This was very high but they did not become tired.
[Contents] or Christiana's experience
In a few moments they were surrounded by a Heavenly Host who said, "Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb." (Rev 199) Then the trumpets sounded as they came to the Gates where it was written, 'Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.' (Rev 2214)
Here the two Pilgrims handed in the scroll with the seal that they had received at the Cross. The King commanded the Gates to be opened and immediately the whole city rang with joy. I heard the words 'Come and share your Master's happiness,' (Math 2521) and also what Christian and Hopeful said, "To him who sits on the throne be praise and honour and glory and power, for ever and ever." (Rev 513) Then the gates were closed - and I very much desired to be among them.
But looking back to the river I saw Ignorance arrive a little further downstream, where there was a ferryman called Vain-hope. He was rowed across the river and even managed to climb up the hill to the Gate. But there was no singing and no welcome when he knocked. They asked for his scroll, but he could only say that the King had taught in the streets of his town. The King then commanded the two Shining Ones to bind his hands and feet and take him away to the door in the side of the hill that Christian had seen earlier - and had trembled.
Then I woke up: it had been a dream.
The Journey of Christiana, the wife of Christian
from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City
In my dream I saw an old man called Mr Sagacity. He came and told me all about what happened after Christian had to leave the City of Destruction without Christiana, his wife, and their four boys.
When Christian went on pilgrimage, it caused quite a stir in the city. Many called him a fool. As news came back of all the dangers and trials he had to endure, even more called him fool! But after many months they heard that he had reached the Celestial City and had been welcomed by the King. Daily he now ate and spoke with him. The Shining Ones, who had appeared occasionally while on his journey, were now his constant companions. Also that he now lives at the Fountain of Life, where he can work without any sorrow or even becoming tired. There were some who were envious at his good fortune, but they were still unwilling to go on pilgrimage themselves, or to search for and find the life that they desired.
After Christian had crossed the river it became clear to Christiana that she had lost her husband. The grief caused her to weep again and again. It was then that she began to feel guilty because she had treated her husband so badly. She remembered how much he had cried and entreated her and the boys to go with him, but she had refused. She told the boys how she felt and they began to cry too, 'alas for that day.' (Ezek 302)
That night she dreamed that a large scroll was unrolled on which was recorded all that she had ever done. It seemed so black to her that she wept, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' (Lu 1813)
In the morning after she had prayed to God and talked with the children there was a loud knocking at the door.
Christiana "If you come in God's name, come in."
Visitor "Peace be to this house. My name is Secret and I live with the King who is ready to forgive all your sins. Here is a letter from him, written in gold, inviting you to the Celestial City and to share his joy for ever."
Christiana "Sir, please will you help me and my children to worship the King?"
Visitor "You must go the same way as your husband and endure many troubles. First you must go to the Wicket-Gate. Take care of the letter, read it often, till its words become etched on your heart."
The children were delighted when Christiana told them that they were going to go to the Celestial City and that they would see their father again. As they were rejoicing there was another knock at the door.
Christiana "If you come in God's name, come in."
Mrs Timorous entered, even though she was most surprised to hear this sort of language from Christiana's house (She was the daughter of Mr Timorous who was so frightened of the lions on the Hill of Difficulty that he ran away and tried to make Christian do the same.) She was also most concerned to see them preparing to go on pilgrimage.
Mrs T. "But surely you will not continue with this wild idea of taking the children on such a dangerous journey?"
Christiana "Certainly! All four want to come. If you knew what has been revealed to me, you would be eager to come too."
She then told Mrs Timorous about her dream and how much she longed to be with her King. She showed her the letter.
Mrs T. "You must be mad! Why on earth go out to meet with Apollyon, with giants and with lions. And you will have to go through the Shadow of Death. Yet you intend to go on such a dangerous journey with four young children and without any escort. You're crazy."
Christiana "Do not try to discourage me. (As one man would later say, 'He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.') It is true that the bitter must come before the sweet, but that will only make the sweet, sweeter still. Now, since I told you only to enter if you came in God's name, and clearly you haven't, I must ask you to leave."
Mrs Timorous had entered with another neighbour called Mercy who decided to stay. She felt compassion for Christiana and her own heart warmed to going on pilgrimage too. So Mrs Timorous went off to her friends. When they had heard of Christiana's intention, Mrs Bat's-Eyes thought she was blind and foolish, Mrs Inconsiderate said they were better off without such people and Mrs Light-mind told her about the marvellous party she had been to the night before with Mr Lechery and Mrs Love-the-Flesh.
Christiana wasted no time in leaving with Mercy and the children. But Mercy, who was young, was unsure that she would be allowed to go with her.
Christiana "Do not be afraid to come with me. The King who has sent for me is one who delights in mercy and is 'abounding in love to all who call to him'." (Ps 865)
Mercy "But the invitation is only for you and your children. What if I am rejected."
Christiana "Come with me as my friend as far as the Wicket-Gate and we will ask there."
Mercy "I will do that. And may the King of Heaven set his heart upon me also."
So they went on together. But shortly Mercy began to weep for the relations she had left behind. There was not even anyone to warn them of what was due to happen soon. Christiana agreed, saying that her husband had wept much for them and the Lord had gathered up his tears. They were not wasted. Besides, 'they who sow in tears shall reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.' (Ps 1265,6)
[Contents] or Christian's experience
When they arrived at the Slough of Despond Christiana knew that this was where Christian had nearly been lost in the mud, so she hesitated. The Slough was even worse now because many of the Kings servants had proved false and brought dung instead of stones. But Mercy found the steps and led them safely across, although Christiana slipped several times. 'Blessed is she who has believed that, what the Lord has said to her, will be accomplished.' (Lu 145)
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Without further incident they came to the Wicket-Gate where they debated what they should say. Christiana knocked as she was the eldest. But the only answer was the loud barking of a large dog. She somehow gained sufficient courage to knock again and this time the doorkeeper answered.
Christiana "Please do not be angry with us for knocking at your Gate, for we have come from the same city as Christian; and with the same purpose. I am his wife, and if you would allow it, we all desire to enter the Way that leads to the Celestial City."
Keeper "'Let the little children come to me'." (Mk 1014)
He commanded the trumpeter to play and make it be a time of joy. But Christiana pleaded for Mercy, who had not dared to enter. Mercy knocked so loudly that the Keeper could hardly hear the intercession. When he opened the Gate he found that Mercy had fainted. 'When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple.' (Jonah 27) The Keeper lifted her up and helped her through the Gate.
Mercy "My friend Christiana was invited by the King, but I was only invited by her, and I am afraid to presume."
Keeper "I pray for all who believe in the Lord and come this way to him."
Mercy soon revived as the Keeper spoke kind words to her and also to the others. Then they begged the Lord to forgive their sins and to lead them on the rest of their journey. So the Keeper explained that pardon is granted by Word and by Deed. By Word, through the promise of pardon, which I seal with a kiss. And by Deed through the way it was obtained, which will be revealed to you later. So they rejoiced together at the goodness of the Lord - especially Mercy. For when she was outside the Gate it had seemed to her as if 'Two women were grinding at the mill; one was taken and the other left.' (Math 2441) And it was only when she saw that above the door was written 'to him who knocks, the door will be opened,' (Math 78) that she knocked so loudly.
They asked why he kept such a nasty dog which frightened women and children.
Keeper "The dog has another owner, not the King. He keeps him to frighten honest Pilgrims, not realising that his barking makes their knocking even more earnest. Only occasionally have I had to give some timely help. So you see that the beast actually profits Pilgrims."
Mercy "I am sorry to have asked and questioned your wisdom, for you do all things well."
Christiana then said:
Bless'd be the day that I began
A Pilgrim for to be:
And blessed also be that man
That thereto moved me.
'Tis true 'twas long ere I began
To seek to live for ever;
But now I run fast as I can,
'Tis better late than never.
Our tears to joy, our fears to faith,
Are turned, as we see;
Thus our beginning (as one saith)
Shows what our end will be.
Keeper then fed them and showed them the Way to continue their journey. Now as they walked, they found that some apple trees over-hung their path, but their owner was the same as the one who owned the Barking Dog that they had heard at the Gate. When the boys started to eat the apples, Christiana scolded them because they did not belong to them, (she did not realise that they belonged to the enemy!) But as boys sometimes will, they continued to eat.
Just then they saw two evil men coming towards them, so the two ladies covered their faces with a veil. They came up to them as if to embrace them so Christiana said, "Stand back, or go peaceably as you should." But the men appeared to be deaf and began to lay their hands on them. Christiana again told them to stand back and added that they had no money since they were Pilgrims. They replied with a sneer that they did not want their money, but desired their bodies. At this the women shrieked, "Murder, murder!" Since they were only a short distance from the Gate, Reliever came running to their aid, but the evil men managed to scramble back over the wall before he reached them.
Christiana "Thank you for coming to help us so quickly, else we would surely have been overcome."
Reliever "I am glad that they have not harmed you. But when you were at the Gate I wondered why you did not ask the Lord for a Conductor so that you might have avoided these troubles and dangers."
Christiana "Alas, we were so taken up with our blessings there that we forgot all about the dangers we would meet. Besides, we never expected two such evil men to be so near to the King's Palace. I am sorry; we had presumed that if we needed help, then the Lord would just give it to us."
Reliever "If he always gave you what you needed without you asking for it, you would soon cease to value his gracious gifts. As it is 'you did not have because you did not ask God'." (James 42)
Christiana "Shall we go back again to our Lord and confess our foolishness and ask him?"
Reliever "I will present him with your confession; you need not return, but you must ask."
Reliever then returned to the Gate.
Mercy "I had no idea that we were in such danger, I thought all sorrow had past."
Christiana "Your innocence, dear Mercy, may excuse you. The fault is mine. I even had a dream about two such men who I saw plotting how they could prevent my salvation, for they knew that I cried so much for forgiveness that they had all but lost me for ever."
Mercy "The Lord has delivered us even though we were so negligent. He has delivered us from hands that were stronger than ours. So we have learned much about his kindness and about our foolishness."
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Interpreters' HouseP>
Soon they came to the Interpreter's House that was built for the relief of
Pilgrims. News had gone on before them that Christiana, the wife of Christian
was now a pilgrim. She knocked at the door which was answered by Innocent.
The Master and all in the house were thrilled, for it fulfilled what was
written, 'go and work today in the vineyard. "I will not," he answered, but
later he changed his mind and went.' (Math 2128,29)
As supper was not yet ready the Interpreter took them into his Significant rooms and showed them all the things that he had shown to Christian, beginning with the caged man.
Then he showed them a man with a muck-rake who could only look downwards. Next to him stood a man offering him a celestial crown in exchange for his rake, but he took no notice. He had no interest in anything eternal, for God and his heaven seemed a fairy story and his mind was totally absorbed in carnal activity.
Christiana "O God, deliver me from this muck-rake!"
Interpreter "That prayer is rarely heard these days. 'Give me not riches' (Prov 308) is the desire of only one in ten thousand. The straw and sticks, which this man rakes, are popularity, power, ease and plenty. These are what most men seek."
Christiana and Mercy wept at this because they realised just how true it was.
Then he took them into the best room in all the palace and asked them if they saw anything profitable. But they could only see a large and ugly spider. Christiana's eyes began to swim as she realised that there was more than one spider in the room! And that the venom in her was far more than that in the spider on the wall. When this was revealed both Mercy and the boys blushed.
Interpreter "The spider is in the best room of the palace to show you that no matter how full of the venom of sin you may be, it can be forgiven; the only requirement is that a man must have faith in his Lord."
Christiana "I thought it was to show that we all appeared like ugly spiders to the King! I never realised that one who clings by faith to him was seen to be so beautiful."
The Interpreter's words cheered them considerably, but their eyes were still full of tears. He took them next to a room in which there was a hen with her chicks and told them to observe her for a while. They saw how every time a chick took a drink it lifted up its head to heaven.
Interpreter "So you too should acknowledge the one from whom all grace and mercy comes. Now look again, compare the hen to the King and the chicks to his obedient ones. They noticed the hen had a common call which told them of her continual presence. She had a special call when there was some special food to give them. There was a brooding call that drew the chicks under her wings and there was also an alarm cry when she saw danger approaching. I have shown you this room because you are women and their interpretation is easy for you."
He took them to a slaughter-house where they saw a butcher killing a sheep. The sheep made no noise and did not struggle. Since your King calls you his sheep, you must learn to endure all wrongs and hurts without complaint.
They were shown a garden where there were many flowers, diverse in size, colour, smell and usefulness. They flourished in different types of soil, moisture and sunshine. But none of them quarrel and desire to be somewhere else or something different.
He showed them a field of wheat sown in good ground. But only the straw remained; all the heads of corn were missing. It was only fit to be ploughed in, burnt or used for bedding. Since fruit is what you look for, make sure that you do not lack this yourselves.
They were puzzled when they saw a robin with a large spider in his mouth. Interpreter explained that they should be wary of men who appear friendly and sincere in the company of the godly, eating nothing but crumbs; but when alone or out of sight love to gobble up spiders. They drink iniquity and swallow sin like water.
There was still a little time before supper so he began to tell them some helpful proverbs.
Interpreter "The fatter the sow is, the more she desires the mud. The more healthy the lustful man is, the more likely he is to do evil."
"There is a desire in women to dress attractively; but let it be attractive in God's sight."
"It is much easier to be watchful for a night or two than for a year; so it is easier to begin to profess well than to go on to the end."
"Every ship's Captain in a storm will willingly throw overboard what is least in value; only those who do not fear God will throw out the best first."
"One leak can sink a ship; and one sin can destroy a sinner."
"He that lives in sin and looks for eternal happiness is like a man who sows weeds and expects to fill his barn with a harvest of wheat."
"If in this world there is so much of beauty; how much more beautiful is the Heaven which God has commended."
"Everyone is be glad at the goodness of men; but who rejoices at the goodness of God?"
In the garden the Interpreter showed them an elm tree that had grown well and had good foliage but the main trunk was hollow and it was in great danger of being blown down. He explained that in God's garden there are some honourable men who speak highly of God but inside they are rotten and only fit for the devil's fire.
At supper, music was played and Interpreter sang them a song:
The Lord alone is my support,
And he that doth me feed:
How can I then want anything
Whereof I stand in need?
He asked Christiana and Mercy how they became pilgrims. He was delighted at their replies and told Mercy she was like Ruth, who for the love she had for Naomi and for her Lord and God, left her home country and relations. "You have put yourself under the wings of the Lord God of Israel, and he will reward you." That night Mercy could hardly sleep for joy; for her lingering doubts were removed. She lay blessing God and wondering at the favour that had been given to her.
In the morning they were taken by Innocent to a bath in the garden were they washed away all the dirt of their journey. They were also greatly strengthened and refreshed. When they returned to the house Interpreter marked their foreheads with a seal that added much to their beauty, and they were given new clothes of fine white linen. He then instructed Mr Great-Heart to put on his helmet, to take his sword and shield and to escort the ladies and the boys to the house called Beautiful.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Walls of Salvation, Cross and Sepulchre
So they continued their journey singing as they went. Then they came to the Cross where Christian was relieved of his burden. At the Gate they had been told that pardon was by promise and by deed. They had learned something of the promise and here they asked Great-Heart to explain pardon by deed.
Great-Heart "Pardon by deed is achieved because Another takes action; action which we are not able to take. He gives us his righteousness, but the gift does not make him less righteous. In the same way, when he who has two coats gives away one of them, he still has a coat to wear. Jesus Christ is the one who worked for and gave away his earnings to us poor beggars. Justice demands that there is a price, a ransom that must be paid for everyone who sins. It can only be paid with righteous blood - blood that no man has ever had, except Jesus Christ. So pardon is by deed because he alone could make the perfect sacrifice required. Now you can see why it was here, at the Cross, that Christian's burden fell off his back."
Christiana "I also feel much lighter in spirit since being here, and my heart loves him so much for he paid ten thousand times more than I am worth."
They longed that their old neighbours, Mrs Timorous and Madam Wanton and others, would become good pilgrims. So Great-Heart warned Christiana and Mercy that though their neighbours had seen the blood flow at the Cross, they had only laughed or jeered - as had so many others. He showed them that their Pilgrimage was given by special grace.
A short distance further on they came to where they saw three men hanging on gallows. Great-Heart explained that these were Simple, Sloth and Presumption that Christian had found sleeping and warned of the danger. Their replies had been, "I see no danger," "Let me sleep a little longer," and "Everyone must stand on their own two feet." It was plain for all to see that they had paid for their folly with their lives. Great-Heart told them that they had also persuaded Slow-pace, Short-wind, No-heart, Linger-after-lust and Dull not to bother with going on pilgrimage. Christiana said that they deserved their end, for they would surely have been a trap for such women as they.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
When they came to the hill Difficulty, Great-Heart showed them the spring that Christian drank from. It was all muddy now because some people who did not like pilgrims to be refreshed had trampled in it. Christiana and her companions put the water into a bottle and let the dirt settle out. The water was then pure and good to drink.
He showed them the two by-ways to hell where Formalist and Hypocrisy were lost. They each had warning signs and were fenced off with a chain, yet some still chose that way, rather than climb the hill. 'The sluggard's craving will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work.' (Prov 2125)
They were soon very tired climbing the steep hill and Great-Heart had to help the youngest boy when he began to cry. He reminded them all that the Prince's resting hut was only a short way off. They made it, panting and sweating.
Mercy "How sweet is rest to them that labour! And how good of the Prince of Pilgrims to provide such a resting place. But let us take care not to sleep here, for it is dangerous, as Christian found to his cost."
Great-Heart asked the boys what they thought of being on pilgrimage.
Youngest "I would not have made it if you hadn't helped me. My mummy said that the way to life is steep and narrow, but the way to hell is wide and easy."
Mercy "Yes, to go down hill is easy."
James "True, but the day is coming when to go down the hill will be hardest of all."
Great-Heart "That is a good answer, James."
Mercy smiled, but James blushed.
Earlier in their journey Mr Interpreter had given Christiana some pomegranate, a piece of honey-comb and a little bottle of spirits. These she was now eager to share with Mercy and the boys. Great-heart refused as he was soon to return home. They talked for a while and then moved on. But Christiana had to ask one of the boys to go back to fetch the little bottle. Mercy said it seemed that this was not only a resting-place, but a place of losing, for it was here that Christian forgot his scroll.
Great-Heart "When resting, some sleep when they should keep awake, and some forget what they should remember. So a place of rejoicing often ends in tears."
Beside the road they read a notice which told them how Timorous and Mistrust were punished for discouraging Christian by saying that the lions made it too dangerous to continue on pilgrimage. Mr Great-Heart was a strong man and not afraid of the lions. He drew his sword and led the way. (The boys, who loved to walk on ahead, were now glad to walk very close behind Great-Heart, which made him smile.) As they came close to the lions, Giant Grim appeared and tried to block their way. Christiana remarked that for many seasons this trio had been so effective that the grass had grown high. But she added, "Then I arose, a mother in Israel." (Judges 57)
Great-Heart thrust at Grim with his sword and made the giant retreat. "It is the Kings Highway that we are in and you have no right to be here or to place these lions to frighten women and children." The next blow brought Grim to his knees and he roared. But soon he was dead and would not trouble any more travellers. The lions looked very fierce but being still chained they did them no harm.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
So they arrived at the Porters Lodge, much relieved, since it was also nearly dark.Mr Watchful, the Porter, let them in. Great-Heart surprised them when he said that he had to return to his Lord; for these were his instructions. They all begged him to continue the journey with them, but he was definite and said good-bye.
As it was now late and the pilgrims were very tired, they had a quick meal and went to bed with the sound of heavenly music in their ears. Mercy had a dream that had a most happy ending. She saw herself alone, bemoaning her hardness of heart and teased by all who passed by. Then an angel came and spoke peace to her. He wiped her eyes, gave her new clothing and crown. He led her to a golden Gate at which he knocked. Inside was One seated on a throne, who said, "Welcome, daughter." The place was bright and twinkled like the stars. Mercy thought that she saw Christian there too.
Christiana told her it was a good dream and that God often speaks to his beloved when they are asleep, but their heart is awake. Mercy asked if they could stay longer if they were invited to, as she wanted to be friends with the three maids, Prudence, Piety and Charity. To their great joy they were allowed to stay for over a month.
Christiana readily agreed when Prudence asked her if she might question the children. She began with James who was the youngest.
Prudence "Can you tell me who made you?"
James "God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit."
Prudence "Good boy. And who is it that saves you?"
James "God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit."
Prudence "Excellent. Now, how does the Father save you?"
James "By his grace."
Prudence "How does the Son save you?"
James "By his righteousness, his death, his blood and his life."
Prudence "And how does the Holy Spirit save you?"
James "By his illumination, by his renovation and by his preservation."
Prudence was very pleased with his answers and commended him and his mother. She then went on to question the next son, Joseph.
Prudence "What is man?"
Joseph "A creature with reason, made by God."
Prudence "What is the meaning of this word saved."
Joseph "Every man has brought himself into a state on captivity and misery by sin, which is so great a tyrant that only the good and loving God can release him from its clutches."
Prudence "What is God's purpose in saving such miserable men?"
Joseph "The glory of his name, grace and justice; and the everlasting happiness of men."
Prudence "Who are saved?"
Joseph "Those who accept his offer of salvation."
Prudence was very pleased with his answers, so she went on to question Samuel.
Prudence "What is heaven?"
Samuel "A place and state that is most blessed, for God dwells there."
Prudence "What is hell?"
Samuel "A place and state most dreadful because sin, Satan and death dwell there."
Prudence "Why would you journey to Heaven?"
Samuel "That I may see God and serve him without weariness, love Christ for ever, and enjoy a fullness of the Holy Spirit that is not possible here."
Prudence "A very good boy. Now Matthew, the eldest."
Prudence "Did anything or anyone exist before God?"
Matthew "No. God is eternal, and nothing existed before the Lord, who made heaven and earth."
Prudence "What do you think of the Bible?"
Matthew "It is the totally reliable and holy word of God."
Prudence "What do you do when there are things written that you do not understand?"
Matthew "I think that God is wiser than I, and desire that he will show me what I need to know."
Prudence "What do you believe concerning the resurrection of the dead?"
Matthew "They shall rise with the same nature as now, but without corruption; because God has promised it and is also able to perform it."
Prudence was delighted with each of them and said so; adding that they needed to continue to listen carefully to their mother's teaching.
After they had been at the Porter's house for about a week Mr Brisk began to call on Mercy, who was as beautiful as she was industrious. Whenever he called, he found her working, making or mending clothes. So he thought that she would make a fine housewife. Mercy, being aware of his attentions, asked the other maids about him. They said that he was a very busy young man, but one that only pretended to be religious. Mercy vowed to have nothing more to do with him. But Prudence suggested that Mercy should say nothing to discourage him; her good works would soon put him off. And so it happened.
When Mr Brisk next called, Mercy was busy making some clothes. "What do you earn a day for all your work," he asked? "Nothing," she said, "I do it because I am glad to help clothe the naked and help the distressed." With that his face fell and he never did come to the house again. Mercy was now more than ever resolved only to marry a man that agreed with her desire to help the poor and needy. She told Prudence about her sister, Bountiful, who had married a man very like Mr Brisk. But it was not long before he threw her out of the house because she was always helping others. And he claimed to be a Christian too.
Matthew became very ill, so they sent for Mr Skill, who was an elderly doctor with a good reputation. He soon diagnosed that the boy had eaten something that his stomach could not digest. Then they remembered that Matthew had ignored his mother's warning and had eaten the fruit that had hung over the wall soon after they had entered the Wicket-Gate. "That will be the trouble," said Mr Skill, "it is from Beelzebub's orchard, and it is a wonder that he has not died. He must be made to vomit."
Christiana began to cry. She blamed her own carelessness as much as the boy's naughtiness. Mr Skill made up a medicine to make him sick, but it was too weak. So he then made some pills made of promise and salt, which had to be taken with tears of repentance. Matthew was not very willing to take this medicine even though the pills did not taste bad. Eventually he was persuaded. So he vomited and next day was much better.
Mr Skill refused any payment, saying she should pay the Master of the College of Physicians. He also gave her some pills, which would cure all sickness. They were only to be used as prescribed however. Matthew learned from Prudence that as the pills had purged his body, so the Word of God purges evil from the soul. He also learned many other lessons from her.
Their month was up and it was time to continue their journey. Before leaving they were shown one of the apples that Eve ate, the angels on Jacob's ladder, and the mountain where Abraham offered Isaac. Just as they were about to leave Great-Heart arrived with some wine, parched corn, pomegranates, figs and raisins from his Lord. And best of all, he had now been given instructions to accompany them all the way to the Celestial City.
Mr Watchful then said goodbye with these words. "Christiana, let your clothes always be white and your head never lack ointment. May Mercy live and not die, and her good works never be lacking. Boys, do not pursue youthful lusts but gladden your mother's heart by being sober and wise." As they thanked them for all their kind hospitality they heard the birds sing this song:
Through all my life thy favour is
So frankly showed to me;
That in thy house for evermore
My dwelling place shall be.
For why? The Lord our God is good;
His mercy is for ever sure:
His truth at all times firmly stood,
And shall from age to age endure.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
The way down into the Valley of Humiliation was steep and slippery, so they were very careful. They remembered that Christian found the descent so difficult that he had many falls and he had to fight with the horrible dragon, Apollyon who tried to block his path. But by the Word of God, Christian had gained a great victory.
Walking along the valley they heard a shepherd boy singing:
He that is down need fear no fall:
He that is low, no pride;
He that is humble ever shall
Have God to be his Guide.
I am content with what I have,
Little be it or much;
And, Lord, contentment still I crave,
Because thou savest such.
Fullness to such a burden is,
That go on pilgrimage:
Here little, and hereafter bliss,
Is best from age to age.
Then Great-Heart added that the author had a merrier life and had more of the herb Heart's-ease in his bosom that many that are clothed in silk and velvet. In this valley our Lord once had his home. It is a quiet place, free from all the noise and hurryings of this life. And although Christian met Apollyon, pilgrims often used to meet angels here. Samuel asked where exactly the battle took place. Great-Heart told him that it was just beyond Forgetful-Green, where pilgrims sometimes forget the great grace and favours that have been given to them.
Mercy was so glad to be in this Valley. No traffic, no molesting, and time to think of the King and of his calling. She said, "Here the heart is melted and the eyes become filled with tears. 'Blessed are those whose strength is in the Lord, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.' (Ps 845-7) The King also gives to his beloved the fruits of his vineyard; for 'this is the one that I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word'." (Is 662)
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Next they came to the Valley of the Shadow of Death, full of the most evil things. But since it was daylight and Great-Heart (who told them to have courage) was with them it was much easier for them than it had been for Christian. Nevertheless they did hear the groaning of dying men and the hissing of serpents.
Then an ugly thing appeared to bar their way. None of them could tell what it was. When Great-Heart was about to fight it with his sword, it vanished. So they remembered that it was written, 'Resist the devil and he will flee from you.' (James 47)
They came to a pit and just as they were about to cross, a thick mist descended, and darkness. Their good Guide said, "'Don't be afraid, stand still and see what the King will do.' (Exd 1413) Often I have led pilgrims through this valley, and in worse conditions than this. So let us pray to him for light.' And God graciously gave them enough light to see their path. The smell was horrible. Samuel said, "It is better to pass through here than to stay here for ever! This way has been prepared for us that our Home might be all the sweeter." These were brave and good words for which he was quite rightly commended.
Great-Heart warned them to be extra careful as there were now many snares and traps. They saw the remains of Heedless, who was one of the many who had been killed in this part of the journey. It all made them wonder how poor Christian had escaped, when he had to find his way at night and alone.
At last they came to the end of the valley where they were met by Giant Maul coming out of his cave. He accused Great-Heart of kidnapping women and children and taking them to a far-off country. He replied, "I am a servant of the God of Heaven and my business is to persuade sinners to repentance, and that they might turn from the power of Satan unto God. So if this is our quarrel, then let us fight."
Maul was about twice the size of Great-heart and had a huge club, which he used most effectively. After about an hour they were both exhausted and agreed to rest for a moment. Great-Heart and the women and children prayed. Then the fight began again. Maul was pierced under the fifth rib so that he couldn't raise his club. With Great-heart's next blow he lost his head. There was much rejoicing and praise to God for their deliverance. They also ate a good meal and rested for a little while.
Going on they came across a man asleep under an oak tree. It was old Mr Honest. He woke with a start and was about to resist them thinking they were robbers when he saw that they wore pilgrim's clothes. He told them that he came from a town called Stupidity, quite near to the City of Destruction, but colder and more senseless, if that were possible. But he added that if the Sun of Righteousness will arise upon any man, his frozen heart shall feel a thaw.
He was thrilled to meet the wife of Christian, a man famous for his courage, faith, and sincerity. As he was told the names of the children he said, "Matthew, may you be like Matthew the publican, not in vice but in virtue. Samuel, you must be like Samuel the prophet, a man of faith and prayer. Joseph, you shall learn to be like Joseph in Potiphar's house, chaste and one who runs away from temptation. And James, you shall learn to be Just, like James the brother of our Lord." He was especially thrilled to see Mercy. "Mercy is your name, and by mercy you shall be sustained through all difficulties until the day when you shall see the Fountain of Mercy face to face with great comfort."
As they walked on together, they talked about Mr Fearing, a pilgrim who had caused Great-Heart and others much trouble. When he decided to set out for the Celestial City, he would not cross the Slough of Despond, although many offered to help him. A whole month passed before he was willing to cross. When he arrived at the Wicket-Gate he kept ushering others on in front of him. Eventually he knocked himself, but immediately withdrew. This was in spite of having a special note from the King, who is most tender to those who are afraid. He was almost starved to death by the time he arrived at the Interpreter House. Even there he sighed most of the time. Only when he saw the Cross and the Sepulchre was there any gladness on his face. He had no trouble with the Hill Difficulty or even with the Lions. His fear was only that he might not be accepted at the journey's end. Sin, death and hell were to him a special terror.
At the house Beautiful he was very quiet. He was so ashamed of himself, but loved to listen to good talk and to see all the ancient things. For him the Valley of Humiliation was easy and the Valley of the Shadow of Death was the quietest it has ever been. It seemed that the Lord of Heaven and Earth had put a special stop to all the noise and darkness as he passed through.
At Vanity he fought with all who loved revelry. On the Enchanted Ground he had no difficulty keeping awake. But when he arrived at the River and saw that there was no bridge, he was most despondent. He thought he would surely be drowned for ever. But the river was so low that he only got his feet wet. So he passed on to the Celestial City.
"No fears, no grace," said James, "there is not always grace where there is fear of Hell, but there cannot be any grace where there is no fear of God."
Mr Honest then told them about a man called Mr Self-will who pretended to be a pilgrim, but he did not enter by the Gate. Furthermore, he preached that a man could follow both the vices and virtues of the Pilgrims. There was no harm in doing what David did with Bathsheba; and you could lie like Sarah, or Rahab or the mid-wives in Egypt. Jacob gained the inheritance from Isaac by guile. And even Jesus told the disciple to take another man's donkey. So any man could do these things too without harm, so long as they also followed their virtuous example. Christiana added that she had also met some who considered that they could do what they liked now and repent at the end. But they all died in the wilderness and had not reached the Promised Land.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
They had walked many miles as they talked and were glad to arrive at the house of Gaius, an innkeeper who loved pilgrims. He said that he had known Christian's father and his grandfather, and many of his forebears. Also James, who was killed by the sword, to say nothing of men like Peter and Paul. There were others too, like Ignatius who was fed to the lions, Polycarp who was burned at the stake and many men who suffered death for the love of a pilgrim's life. Then he said to the children, "I hope that you will tread in your father's steps and come to your father's end."
They had been on pilgrimage for some years and Matthew was now a young man, so Mr Gaius suggested that it would be good if Mercy became Matthew's wife. Then he told all the women that although sin came into the world through a woman, so also did the Saviour of the world. How women gave to Christ food and refreshment. How they had washed his feet and anointed him and were the first to see him risen from the dead. He concluded that women were highly favoured by the King. By this time supper was ready and they were ready to eat it! Their eagerness was a reminder of their desire to sit and eat the Supper of the Great King. After they had eaten, Mr Honesty gave them a riddle to solve.
A man there was, though some did call him mad,
The more he cast away, the more he had.
After considering for a moment, Mr Gaius solved it saying:
He who thus bestows his goods upon the poor,
Shall have as much again, and ten times more.
As it was now late, Mercy and the children went to bed, but the others stayed up. They talked of their Lord, of themselves and of their journey. They did not know how to stop! Old Mr Honesty began to nod-off, so Great-Heart gave him a riddle to solve:
He that would kill, must first be overcome;
Who would live abroad, first must die at home.
"Ha!" said Mr Honest, "that is a hard one; hard to expound and harder still to practice."
He first by grace must conquered be
That flesh would mortify:
To be assured of life in heaven
Unto himself must die.
At breakfast Christiana asked James to read a chapter. He chose Isaiah 53.
Honest "Why does it say that the Saviour grew up like a root out of dry ground?"
Great-Heart "Because the sap of the church of the Jews at that time was almost lost."
Honest "Why had the Saviour no beauty or majesty?"
Great-Heart "Because the unbelievers were not able to see into our Prince's heart. They judged him by his appearance, which was that of a poor man."
Mr Gaius told them that there was a giant called Slay-good, who lived nearby and had done much damage to pilgrims. He proposed that they stop his evil activities. They readily agreed. So they set off; Great-Heart with his sword, helmet and shield and the rest with spears.
The Giant was in his den and about to kill and devour Mr Feeble-mind. He paused and demanded to know why this deputation had invaded his territory. "To revenge the blood of many pilgrims," said Great-Heart. So they started to fight. It was not long before Slay-good lost his weapon and very soon afterwards his head!
Mr Feeble-mind told them that he was from the town of Uncertain and was a nephew of Mr Fearing. "I have always been a sick man and felt unhappy at home, so I had set out on pilgrimage. At the Interpreter's House they were very kind to me and they even carried me up the Hill of Difficulty. But when I came to Assault-Lane this giant attacked and robbed me. He brought me here, but I thought that I would come out alive since my heart is wholly towards my Master. I am resolved to run when I can, to go when I cannot run, and to creep where I cannot go. I thank my King as author and you as the means of my escape. My mind may be feeble but it is also set on the Land beyond the river that has no bridge."
Just then someone came and told them that a Mr Not-right had been struck dead by a thunderbolt. He had been with Feeble-mind when the Slay-good had attacked, but he had a nimble pair of heels and had escaped. On this news Mr Feeble-mind said:
That very Providence, whose face is death,
Doth oft-times to the lowly, life bequeath:
I taken was; he did escape and flee;
Hands crossed gave death to him and life to me.
As Mr Gaius had suggested, Matthew and Mercy were married. He gave his own daughter Phoebe to James and they were married also. It was a most happy occasion and for a further ten days they stayed with him.
It was time to leave. But when they tried to pay Mr Gaius for their stay, he said that the Good Samaritan had promised to pay for all the pilgrims who stayed there, when he returned.
Mr Feeble-mind hesitated as the others were leaving because he did not wish to slow them down. He could not answer their questions nor could he rejoice like they did. But Great-Heart said that he had a commission to help the weak and would see that he was not left behind. Just then Mr Ready-to-halt arrived.
Feeble-M. "Welcome, welcome. I was just complaining that there was no one feeble like me in this company."
Ready-to-H. "I shall be glad to be your companion. I will lend you one of my crutches."
Feeble-M "Not yet, thank you. I do not wish to be halt before I am lame! But one day it may help against a dog."
So they all set off together and shared many good things as they walked. It did not seem long, but they had been on the road all day when they arrived at Vanity. Here there lived an old disciple called Mr Mnason, a Cyprusian by birth. He recognised Great-Heart's voice as soon as he knocked and was delighted to welcome all of them. After supper they asked Mr Mnason if there were any other good people in the town that they could meet. So he asked his daughter Grace to go and fetch his friends Mr Contrite, Mr Holy-man, Mr Love-saints, Mr Dare-not-lie and Mr Penitent. Mr Honest asked them how life was in the town these days.
Contrite "There is much bustle at Fair-time but now it is quiet; not like the days when Christian and Faithful were here. No-one has been burned since Faithful. It seems that they were ashamed of it afterwards. But anyone who lives here still has to learn to be cautious."
Honest "It is much the same with us. The wind is not always on our backs, and not everyone we meet is our friend. As it says, 'A good man must suffer trouble'."
Holy-man "There are two things you need to be a pilgrim; courage and a pure life."
Love-Saints "That is right, for there are more who say that they are strangers to pilgrimage than there are who declare that they are pilgrims and strangers."
The Pilgrims and the good men of Vanity encouraged each other for many days. It was here that Samuel and Grace were married. Mnason also gave his other daughter Martha to be the wife of Joseph. Mercy helped many and was blessed by many, for she continually laboured to feed and clothe the poor wherever she was: as did all the others in their company.
While they were staying in the town, the monster with seven heads and ten horns, and who was controlled by a woman, abducted some of the children. All the men were very frightened and accepted the conditions that it had imposed. Great-Heart and Mnason's five friends agreed that they would try to rid the town of this beast. They put on their weapons and approached the monster; who looked at them with great disdain. It was short-lived for they pressed forward their combined attack and wounded him. He withdrew and his lameness did not heal, so Vanity was relieved of this fearsome animal. The pilgrims were treated with a degree of respect after this and there was no more molesting them as in days of old.
On leaving, they stopped at the place where Faithful was put to death and thanked God that he had been given courage to bear his 'cross' so well.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Next they came to a pillar of salt. It was in full view of Sodom and its stinking lake. It was on a hill called Lucre where the old silver mine was. It was here that Demas chose to leave the path of pilgrimage, and By-ends had also perished. They wondered how it was possible to be so easily led astray. For some it still has a very attracting virtue, but it was not to them.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Soon they were passing the stile which Christian and Hopeful had climbed over to take an easy short-cut. It had nearly led to their death in Doubting Castle. The party pondered if it was right for them to go across this unconsecrated ground and attack Giant Despair. Being commissioned to resist and overcome all evil, Great-Heart considered that they should fight. Old Honesty agreed and so did Christiana's boys, who were now old enough to fight. Feeble-mind and Ready-to-halt stayed with the women and their children. The six went across By-ends Meadow and came to the castle where they knocked loudly.
Giant Despair was not pleased to be challenged to a fight, but he agreed. He was soon dead and so was his wife Diffidence, whom Old Honesty felled with one blow when she tried to help her husband. In the Castle they were pleased to rescue Mr Despondency and his daughter Much-afraid who had been there a long time. But what surprised them most was the large number of remains of pilgrims that were lying in the courtyard.
For a whole week they set to work demolishing Doubting Castle. Then they returned to the women. And there in the middle of the road they ate and played music. Ready-to-halt took Mrs Much-afraid by the hand and they danced down the road, though he still needed one of his crutches. It was a merry time! They put Giant Despair's head on a pole beside the road, together with a stone which said that any pilgrim could see that there was deliverance from fear and doubt.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Buoyed up with such a victory they soon came to the Delectable Mountains where they were welcomed by the Shepherds (Knowledge, Experience, Watchful and Sincere). Mr Feeble-mind, Mr Ready-to-halt, Mr Despondence and Mrs Much-afraid they called in by name, otherwise they might have been reluctant to enter. Great-Heart and the others followed. They rejoiced that the Shepherds were so like their Master who has special care for the weak, the poor and the sick.
The morning dawned bright and clear. They could easily see Mt Marvel where the son of Mr Great-Grace testified and taught many how to believe, even in great difficulty.
In the distance was Mt Innocence. Prejudice and Ill-will were continually trying to cover it with dirt, but each time they did so it was washed clean again. They saw too, Mt Charity where a man was making many coats and blankets out of a roll of material. But as they watched, the roll never got any smaller.
They saw Fool and Want-wit washing an Ethiopian to try to make him white!
Mercy wanted to see the hole in the side of the hill that was commonly called By-way to Hell. It was shown to her and she heard one saying, "Cursed be my father for keeping me back from the way of peace." Another said, "O that I had been torn in pieces before I had lost my soul." And yet another said, "If I could live again I would deny myself anything to avoid coming to this place." After she felt the ground shake under her feet, Mercy said that it was a blessing to be delivered from here.
The Shepherds were glad to give their guests some gifts before sending them on their journey in peace.
They had not gone far when they met a man with his face covered with blood and a drawn sword in his hand. It was Valiant-for-Truth. He had just been fighting with three men, Wildhead, Inconsiderate and Pragmatic. They had given him three options:
1. to become one of them.
2. to go back to the town he came from.
3. to die.
Valiant-for-Truth was not willing for any of these. Having truth on his side, he was determined to fight, for he remembered that it was written, 'When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh ... they will stumble and fall. ... though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.' (Ps 272,3)
The women washed his wounds carefully and dressed them. Meanwhile he told them that he had come from Dark-land, where his mother and father remain. They had done their best to dissuade him, saying it was both an idle and a dangerous life. He preferred to believe Mr Tell-true who had told him about Christian's journey from the City of Destruction and his welcome at the Celestial City. So he decided to set out on pilgrimage too.
His parents, who also knew about Christian, told him all about the many grave difficulties of pilgrimage and the pleasure of staying at home. But he would not be stopped.
Who would true valour see,
Let him come hither;
One here will constant be,
Come wind, come weather,
There's no discouragement
Shall make him once relent
His first avowed intent
To be a Pilgrim.
Whoso beset him round
With dismal stories,
Do but themselves confound;
His strength the more is.
No lion can him fright;
He'll with a giant fight;
But he will have a right
To be a Pilgrim.
Hobgoblin, nor foul fiend,
Can daunt his spirit;
He knows he at the end
Shall life inherit.
Then, fancies, flee away;
He'll fear not what men say;
He'll labour night and day
To be a Pilgrim.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
By the time Valiant-for-Truth had finished telling them all about his journey, they had arrived at the Enchanted Ground. Here the air naturally tended to make one drowsy, and there were tempting places for rest and leisure. If any pilgrim sits down at one of these places he will fall asleep, and probably never wake up again in this world.
Along this stretch Great-Heart led the way and Valiant-for-Truth guarded the rear. A thick mist descended and they had to 'feel one another by words', for they could not walk by sight. Their Guide who had a map and a light faithfully told them of all the dangers as they came to them, so they did not stray from the right path, nor did they rest.
They came across two men asleep, Heedless and Too-bold. They tried to wake them, but failed. It reminded them that the Enchanted Ground is placed very close to Beulah on purpose. The enemy knows that pilgrims will be tired and want to rest before the appointed time. It was here that the young children, who were very tired, cried loudly to him that loves pilgrims. Moments later the wind rose and the fog cleared.
Hearing a noise, they found Mr Standfast, who was on his knees, calling for God to help. Just before they had come, he had been enticed by Madam Bubble, who repeatedly offered Standfast her body, her purse and her bed. She would not take no for an answer, claiming she was the Mistress of the World who made all men happy. Standfast said that he knew the dangerous nature of the road here and that he desired far more the delights of the Celestial City. Eventually she left him, and he gave thanks for his timely deliverance from this witch who makes this ground so enchanted.
Old Honest knew about Madame Bubble. He said that many men had been deceived by her and ceased to follow the pilgrim's way. She is a great gossiper, laughing at the poor, commending the rich and loving their banquets. Some even worship her as a goddess. She loves it when men desire her and speak well of her.
Great-Heart added that it was she who had set Absalom against his father, Jeroboam against his master, Judas to sell his Lord and Demas to forsake being a pilgrim. She was always making kings fight each other, as also parents and their children and a husband and his wife.
What danger is the Pilgrim in?
How many are his foes?
How many are the ways of sin,
No living mortal knows?
Some in the ditch are spoiled; yea can
Lie tumbling in the mire;
Some, though they shun the frying-pan,
Do leap into the fire.
So they came at last to Beulah where the sun shone day and night. Here it was safe to rest and safe to eat the fruit because the orchards belonged to the King of the Celestial City. Each day they would hear the trumpets sound and the Shining Ones would often be seen - and not just in ones or twos!
[Contents] or Christian's experience
Christiana was the first to be called by the Master. "He expects that you should stand in his presence in clothes of immortality in the next 10 days." She thanked Valiant-for-Truth, blessed her children and gave a ring to Mr Standfast. Calling Mr Honest she said, "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile." To Mr Ready-to-halt she said, "Your travel has been with difficulty, but it will make the rest all the sweeter. But now you must watch and be ready, for the messenger may come when you least expect him." To Mr Feeble-mind she said, "You were delivered from Giant Slay-good that you may live and see your King with comfort. So take care that you turn from all fear and doubt of his goodness before he sends for you."
The day came for her to cross the river. Her last words were, "I come Lord, to be with you and to bless you."
Soon the messenger arrived and asked for Mr Ready-to-halt. He said to him, "I am come from him that you have loved and followed, though upon crutches. He now expects you at his table, to dine with him in his Kingdom." Mr Ready-to-halt had nothing to leave in his will except his crutches, which he left to his son who shall walk in his steps. His last words were, "Welcome Life."
Mr Feeble-mind that the messenger came next, with the words, "Your Master needs you. Very soon you must behold his face in brightness." Mr Feeble-mind had nothing at all to leave that would be of any value to a pilgrim. But he asked Valiant-for-Truth to bury his feeble-mind in a dung hill for he would have no further use of it. His last words were, "Hold out, Faith and Patience!"
After many days Mr Despondency and his daughter were sent for. "Trembling man, you are summoned to be ready to go and be with the King. Shout for joy, for the day of deliverance from all your doubting has come." He said to all the company who were left, "I know that after my death the despondency and slavish fears will offer themselves to other pilgrims. So be sure to shut the door on them." His last words were, "Farewell, night; welcome, day!"
And as his daughter went though the river she sang a beautiful song, but none could understand the words.
When Mr Honest was called, he said to his friends, "I die, but shall make no will. My honesty shall go with me, but be sure to tell those that come after me." Now the river was in full flood and even overflowed its banks in places. But there was one called Good-conscience to meet him and he helped him cross. His last words were, "Grace reigns."
Mr Valiant-for-truth was the next to be called. He told all on the river bank, "I am going to my Father. And though I arrived here with great difficulty I do not regret it at all. My sword I give to him that shall succeed me, my courage and skill to him that can get it. My scars I carry with me as witness that I have fought his battles, who now will be my reward." As he crossed over his last words were, "Death, where is your sting?" And going a little further he stopped and said, "Grave, where is your victory?" All the trumpets sounded for him on the other side.
Then Mr Standfast was called and the messenger said to him, "The Master is not willing that he should be so far from you any longer." Mr Standfast asked Great-Heart if he would tell his wife and five small children how he had arrived at the Celestial City. And about Christian and Christiana and the others. "It may be," he said, "that our prayers and tears and your words will prevail, and they become pilgrims." There was a great calm on the day he was to cross the river. When halfway he stopped and said, "This river has been a terror to many. But now I stand on a firm footing, just where the feet of the priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant stood while Israel went across this Jordan. The water is to the taste bitter and to the stomach cold, yet the thought of what awaits me on the other side is like a glowing coal at my heart. Now my toilsome days are ended." Then he added, "Take me, for I come to you." And he was seen no more.
As for Christiana's four sons and their wives and children, I did not stay to see them go over. But I did hear one say that they are yet alive and would be for the increase of the church.
So Adieu.
[Contents] or Christian's experience
John Bunyan was born at Elstow, about a mile from Bedford. His father was a poor tinker but he did have his own home and he sent John to the local village school to learn to read and write. John showed no special aptitude in this: he never became a scholar.
England at that time was experiencing the height of the ‘Puritan’ era, which stressed and demanded holiness. Not surprisingly it tended to be somewhat critical. Bunyan’s imagination was always vivid and his heart most sensitive, so from an early age he was haunted by guilt and had fearful dreams with demons trying to make him their own. His use of profane language caused him much agony of spirit in his teenage years. Later he would always preach very directly and from the heart, a characteristic which God used very effectively. In his autobiography, ‘Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners’, he tells how hard it was for him to stop dancing on the village green, playing the unprofitable game of tipcat and ringing the bells of the parish church. (today we are probably in equal danger by being at the opposite end of the pendulum swing. i.e. that of liberality.)
At seventeen he was conscripted into the Parliamentary army for about two years. God spared his life, having other plans for him. Back home in 1646 he still wrestled with all his fears and longed for real peace with God. Trying to live righteously, but attending prayers and church sermons did not help. At one time he thought that only Israelites could be saved; but his father had no ambition to be regarded as a Jew! Then he thought that ‘If I have not faith I am lost, but if I have faith I can work miracles.’ So he told the puddles to be dry! They didn’t, so he presumed he was lost. In his dreams he was told that he had committed the unpardonable sin and concluded that like Esau he had sold his birthright and there was now no way open to repent. No books were able to help and neither could any of his many advisors. He had tried everything and failed; there seemed to be no hope.
But in 1655, at this time of greatest despair, the clouds began to break and God revealed the truth. ‘Will the Lord reject for ever? ... Has his unfailing love vanished for ever? ...’ (Ps 777-9) These words began to reveal what he had longed for.
As he was debating in his mind if the blood of Christ was sufficient to save his soul, he heard the words, ‘He is able’. (Heb 725) Later he heard, ‘My grace is sufficient’ (2 Co 129) and ‘Mercy triumphs over judgement’ (James 213) and ‘Whoever comes to me I will never drive away’. (Jn 637) When the Spirit spoke these words, and many others to his heart, he began to enjoy peace and had confidence in the mercy of God, though it was some years before his shattered nerves were healed.
Earlier, in 1648, he married a girl from a pious family. She brought with her two books, ‘The Plain Man’s Path-way to Heaven’ and ‘The practice of Piety.’ They had four children. Elizabeth, the eldest, was blind from birth; but Bunyan always had a particular compassion for her. His wife died in 1658, just after the Holy Spirit had convinced him of righteousness.
He joined a non-conformist community in Bedford and soon began preaching. But not for long! In 1658 Cromwell had died leaving a power vacuum. Who would have the ultimate authority in England; Parliament, the Army or a restored Monarchy? Another full-scale civil war was only narrowly averted during the next three years. Surprisingly Parliament won the day, Charles II was restored to the throne but without the previous absolute power, and the standing army was paid off. Following such major changes many prominent and ‘dangerous’ men lost their heads. And one form of intolerance was replaced by another in the name of ‘law and order.’
So in November 1660, just after Bunyan had married again, he was flung into Bedford gaol. He remained there for twelve years. He had two principle burdens: that he would remain faithful to Christ who had died for him and that somehow his family would be provided for. God graciously undertook in both.
The authorities tried many times to extort a promise that he would abstain from preaching. Bunyan’s answer remained the same, ‘If you let me out today, I will preach again tomorrow.’ (Under the Act of Uniformity of 1662 all ministers had to comply with the liturgy of the Church of England. Charles tried unsuccessfully to suspend this Act in 1663 but Parliament refused ‘to establish schism by law.’) His release in 1672 came about in a strange way. Charles II wanted to annul all the penal statutes against Roman Catholics and obtain an Indulgence for himself. He had married Catherine of Braganza (with her dowry of £800,000), but he now wanted to marry ‘the Protestant whore’, Nell Gwyn. In order to make his proposed Act acceptable to Parliament he included an annulment of all the statutes against the Protestant nonconformists.
In 1678 Bunyan finished The Pilgrim’s Progress, which he had begun while in prison. For several years Bunyan was allowed to preach in Bedford and also in London. And God saved many men and women thereby. In 1685 Charles II’s brother, James succeeded to the throne. He was an ardent Papist. The exiled Duke of Monmouth was the bastard son Charles II, and he also claimed the throne. He lost the Battle of Sedgemoor and his head. James now had the pretext to persecute Protestants and nonconformists. Many were imprisoned; but God spared Bunyan this ordeal. James II was continually at open war with the Bishops and needed the support of nonconformists. Bunyan’s help was sought; it was not forthcoming. He refused to add politics to the gospel of Christ.
In 1688 a young man sought his help after having a rift with his father. Bunyan rode to Reading to see the angry father and successfully exhorted him to be reconciled. Returning to London in heavy rain, he caught a fever and died.
“Jesus said, ... ‘He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; ... ’.” (Jn 1125)
Pilgrim’s Progress Characters
[Top]
Christian’s Journey [Contents]
Obstinate and Pliable [Contents]
Bunyan contrasts these first two characters. Obstinate, who refuses to listen and Pliable who listens to anyone. Both lack any real discernment. Unlike Christian, neither have the heavy burden of sin upon his back; a burden that could not be removed. So neither have any inclination to repent. They are both deaf to the Holy Spirit who would convict us of sin, righteousness and judgement. (Jn 168)
“Nothing is more like firm conviction than simple obstinacy.”
We need to keep our convictions under review - they may not be correct or complete. As an old man, I still have much to learn. A man often becomes an ‘obstinate’ man because in his youth he never willingly submitted to discipline. Pride never asks questions; he has never learned to discuss nor has he any desire to do so. He rarely, if ever, admits that he may be wrong and thus does not seek or welcome any correction, however lovingly offered. The worst aspect of this habit is seen when proud men cease to able to be taught by the Word of God. They may use a few selected verses or stories to prove their convictions. But they rarely if ever earnestly search through all the pages to discern the often hidden truths of God. The Lord is a patient teacher, but the obstinate man has ceased to be a searching soul. Back in 1957, Isobel Kuhm wrote her frank and humble testimony in a book titled ‘By Searching’. It concludes by quoting Heb 116 “He is the rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”
So - Let us go on - SEARCHING.
Bunyan’s Obstinate not only prevented his own salvation, but he tried his best to stop Christian from setting out on his determined pilgrimage.
Pliable was very interested in heaven. Joy, beauty, happiness and peace are always popular and will easily gather a following. But Pliable has no foundation, no roots, no truth; he has only a distant hope that has no certainty. Just ‘pie in the sky’. Pliable is easily deceived into thinking there are many paths to heaven and chooses the easiest! Jesus compared the ‘broad, easy way’ (the popular, Pliable way) with the ‘narrow way’ that few people find. (Math 713,14) What is the difference? The easy way does not teach that sin excludes a man. He has no notion of the extent of God’s hatred of evil. Angry judgement is so far from the teaching that God is Love that they cannot both be true. Pliable therefore has never heard of propitiation, let alone of our need for it. He has no need to cry to God for mercy. He has no burden upon his back that only Christ can remove. Pliable knows that sin exists and wants to live in a world that is without wickedness, war and pain. But he is ignorant as to the consequences of sin. He will gladly march along the easy way when told it leads to heaven. But when he comes to the Slough of Despond, he will turn back, and without a burden, will find it easy to do so. Pliable has no foundation of truth to urge him to press on. He hopes to find some other, easier way - but will never find it because it does not exist. The only way a man can come to the Father is by believing in Christ as our Vital Redeemer. (Jn 146)
‘Pliable’ may know a few Bible quotes and stories, but his testimony does not include ongoing repentance, nor the relief of daily sins forgiven. He never sings that great hymn “O to grace how great a debtor, daily I’m constrained to be.” So he has little real gratitude of what Jesus had to do for us on the Cross. For him the Cross is a symbol of love, rather than the essential means of our forgiveness.
Over the centuries men have striven to drain the Slough of Despond or to make a stable roadway across it. But all such efforts have failed dismally. Human wickedness keeps refilling it. Though many despair at its extent, it should be noted that even Mr Fearing managed to cross over. Christian managed to cross because Help assisted and encouraged him. And later Christiana and the children were accompanied by Mercy who led them across. Conviction of sin is a part of the journey that every pilgrim has to traverse. Neither Obstinate nor Pliable were willing to walk this road. It is only by the grace and mercy of God that any man is enabled to safely reach the other side.
Christian only managed to cross the Slough because Evangelist had warned him that the wrath of God was to come upon his home town. He was given an urgency to escape, a godly determination to get to the Wicket Gate and find the Way of Salvation. Even then his burden made it impossible to get out of the mire until he cried to God, who sent Help to lift him out. The ministry of Help is most precious.
Bunyan himself tells us in his testimony ‘Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners’ that he had a rough passage here. He wept much, and for many months, over sins that he felt could not be forgiven. Eventually he learned the truth of ‘My grace is sufficient for you’ 2 Co 129. And then also ‘Whoever come to me I will never cast out’ Jn 637. The Slough was an important and personal part of his life.
Worldly-Wiseman
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A well-dressed and easy going man met the ragged and burdened pilgrim and assured him that his life was going to be filled with weariness, pain, hunger, darkness, dragons and death! He told him of a much easier road where he would no more be troubled by all the accusations of the Book he had been given. He beguiled Christian, who was desperate to be rid of his burden, by telling him about the nearby village of Morality. There, rents were low, provisions cheap and life was pleasant. Besides, good men like Mr Legality and his son, Civility lived there and are skilled ‘burden-removers’.
This character has no concept as to the seriousness of sin and has a low estimate of both its quality and quantity. He is off-hand and denies its awful, eternal consequences. He is contrasted with the Slough that Christian had just passed through. A great Slough that causes many men to wallow and despair over sin; thinking that there can never be any escape from it. Christian only escaped when the Lord sent Help to show him the steps provided for a way through.
Pilgrim was about to enter Morality when the whole mountain seemed to quake. Mr Evangelist appeared and warned him of his shameful disobedience. “Mr Worldly-Wiseman caused you to leave the way that God has ordained. He tried to make the way of the Cross seem foolish and unnecessary. He did not tell you that Legality is the son of the Bond-Woman, who only brings death.”
Evangelist then again directed him towards the wicket gate. There he could knock and the door would be opened. There, he could ask, and he would be shown the way of Salvation that leads to the Cross. There is no other way.
Ashamed, Christian now followed the directions of Mr Evangelist.
Good-Will, the Gatekeeper
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Christian had to knock several times before being answered by Mr Good-Will, who quickly drew him inside to avoid the constant arrows being fired by Captain Beelzebub. We all need men like this Gatekeeper, for Satan hates to see anyone escape his clutches and be shown the way to eternal life. This gate is like the door in Noah’s Ark that enabled him, his family and the animals to enter and be safe inside. But then God shut the door and all the wicked were shut outside with no way in! This gate signifies that men do not drift or accidentally grow into the Christian life, we must be determined to enter the way of salvation.
C.S.Lewis in The Screwtape Letters reveals the countless variety of ways that Satan will use to try to entice or divert those seeking salvation. They all have one thing in common - deception. The three main temptations are money for happiness, sex for pleasure and appearance for popularity. There is also the basic lure of having raw power and authority.
Good-Will was well named because his objective was to assure all who seek God, that the truth will set them free, while deception will always end in disappointment. His work is not for his own benefit, but his delight is to reveal Jesus to others on their way to the Kingdom of God. His task is also to ensure that the Wicket Gate is not the place to settle down, but is only a good and essential beginning. As one said, “Conversion is not everything, it is only the beginning of everything.” There is much more yet to be revealed and to believe.
Interpreter
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After the encouragement of Good-Will, who assured Christian that he was now on the right road, he soon met The Interpreter. Here he was shown many truths from the Scriptures. They each had a simple and practical element that was easily understood and remembered. For instance he was taken into a very large room that was full of dust. He asked someone to sweep it, but the air was soon so full of dust that they could hardly breathe. He then asked for some water to be sprinkled on the floor so that it could be swept easily. The room is the heart of a man who knows nothing of the Gospel of grace. The dust is his sin. The first sweeper is the Law. The water is the Gospel that enables sin to be swept up and forgiven.
Jesus does not want to confuse us, but when asked why he taught using parables, his reply was surprising. “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to the one who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” Math 1311,12 Parables are not to make it easier for everyone to understand. They are purposefully selective. Consider one of the most well known about the man who builds a house with a rock foundation that is going to outlast one built on sand. The principle is obvious and encourages good foundations - and not only for building a house. But that is not why Jesus told it. Probably few would be able to reveal his reason - namely: “Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like” ... He is like the ‘rock-foundations’ man. But he is compared to “the one who hears and does not do them.” Math 646-49
The ministry of the interpreter is only valuable and discerned by those who earnestly seek the kingdom of God. The prophets often used a parable ‘picture’ to ensure that the prophecy is understood by all. For instance when Jeremiah went down the house of the Potter. (Jer 18,19). The Lord God wanted everyone to hear clearly his warning and know the consequence of their wicked lives.
In The Pilgrim’s Progress the Interpreter, the Holy Spirit, revealed the much needed and encouraging truth that enabled Christian to hear God’s Word at this formative time of his journey. We all need his quickening at the start and this revelation must continue all our lives. Such received wisdom is treasured and often shared; though we need to know how and when to do so. This requires love and sometimes courage.
The most vital early revelation is that the Bible is the Word of God; and thus it is all reliable and accurate. Page by page and morning by morning we learn that he continues to reveal its treasured truth until our arduous journey is ended. The Interpreter teaches Christian that from the beginning the path is not for the half-hearted, together with the truth that throughout our faithful God guarantees that his grace is sufficient. (2 Co 129)
The Interpreter bade him farewell saying, “May the Comforter be always with you, good Christian, to guide you in the way that leads to the City.” The rest of the Book reveals how God honoured this earnest prayer until the day when he crossed the river and was welcomed in heaven.
Christiana and her children were also well instructed by this faithful and discerning Interpreter. His work made a significant contribution to their journey. Just as many ‘Banner of Truth’ books revealed longed for truth to me in the early 1960's.
The Cross
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Although not a ‘character’, this part of Pilgrim’s journey is absolutely vital. Interpreter had prepared him well for this moment when he came to the Cross.
At last his burden fell off and rolled into an open sepulchre. He declared,
“The Lord has given me rest by his sorrow, and life by his death.”
Notice the emphasis Bunyan puts upon it. Today many false teachers proclaim ‘just decide to come to Jesus and follow him. They bypass the conviction of sin - the burden that Christian carried on his back. They ignore the truth that no man, however good he may seem to be, can remove this conviction. No psychology can persuade the honest soul that he can do so. Everyone needs to plead with God for mercy and believe that only Jesus Christ, ‘the one full, perfect and sufficient sacrifice for sin’ can redeem sinners. Bunyan emphasises very simply that Christ is the only one who can release the burden of sin. He is the only one who can assuage the wrath of God (= propitiation). Why do so many modern preachers omit that there is absolutely nothing we can do to earn God’s forgiveness or erase the eternal consequence of sin. They seem to say, or at least imply, that men can be welcomed into heaven by their own reformation and the friendship of the church. They ignore that the wages of sin is death. Ro 623 This must mean that for them, the Cross is not the ‘wisdom of God’, the fulfilment of God’s plan prophesied from the beginning. Thus they imply that the cross is only an expression of God’s love; when in fact it is the only perfect sacrifice that can gain God’s forgiveness for our sin.
The ‘Way of Salvation’ by which Christian had to travel is important. He had to be acutely aware of his need; that his sin deserved punishment. It was this conviction that was the burden on his back that he could not get rid of.
Furthermore, the Cross that Christian saw, was empty! The Saviour had risen from the dead when his offering was ‘Finished’. Throughout the centuries the Jews had to continually offer sacrifices for sin. Now the sacrifice to which they all pointed was complete; it was perfect and never needs repeating. Christian never saw his burden again; he knew his forgiveness was complete. What a Saviour! A slave once accounting for his love of Jesus to his scoffing master said, “Ah, Master, he die, me no die.”
The Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Is 636
The ministry of the Shining Ones at the Cross transformed the life and countenance of Christian for ever. Today their ministry still reveals that the purpose of the Cross is to remove the terrible consequence of sin. It is to give to all who repent and believe, new birth and eternal life.
Here, at the Cross, Christian began to sing:
This far have I come, laden with my sin;
For nothing could ease the grief that I was in,
But here the burden did fall from off my back
And here the strings that bound it to me cracked.
O blessed Cross! and far more blessed be
The Man who here was put to death for me!
Christian was greeted by three Shining Ones who:
1. Assured him, “Your sins are forgiven.” Is 118
2. Gave him a new set of clothes - the gift of Christ’s righteousness. Zech 34
3. Marked a sign on his forehead and gave him a scroll from the King. Ezek 94
The angelic ministry continues today with all who are truly ‘born again’.
They quench all doubt with the abiding Word of God.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for,
the conviction of things not seen. Heb 111
Simple, Sloth, Presumption
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After such an experience at the Cross, Christian is a changed man in both appearance and nature. But he has to learn how to ‘carry his dish level’, so that it does not spill to one side in cowardice nor overflow to the other in pride.
He was surprised to find 3 men sleeping beside the road, so he offered help and warned them that lazy indifference was putting their lives in great danger.
Simple said, “I see no danger.”
Like Admiral Nelson, this man only puts the telescope to his blind eye.
He is a man who only sees what he wants to see (and vice versa).
Or ‘There is none so blind as those who do not want to see’.
No interest, so take therefore the talent from him ... Math 2528
Sloth said, “Let me sleep a little longer.”
Why do today what can be put off till tomorrow?
It is the opposite of our naval engineering motto ‘Beat the iron while its hot’.
His ‘In tray’ is always full, and his ‘Out tray’ is always empty.
His garden, and his life, is always full nettles and weeds.
How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? Heb 23
Presumption said, “Everyone must stand on their own two feet.”
He foolishly thinks that God is only love, so sin has no lasting consequence.
He thinks that if there is a God, it will somehow all be ok on the day.
Do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience,
not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? Ro 24
When I was a boy at the end of WW2, in many towns and cities of England there would be a man with a billboard which read “Beware of the Wrath to Come” on the front, and on the reverse, “Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand.” (or similar themes). They were largely ignored and sometimes even laughed at. Most men were like Simple and Sloth; they didn’t see any cause for alarm. They preferred a little peace and quiet after war. As the decades have past, these brave sentinels of truth have died and are enjoying their reward. Their trumpets are now silent; just museum pieces. Today few men have any real respect for Almighty God because they don’t believe that he even exists! The Evolution Theory is now taught as truth in place of Creation; and so they think that God can safely be ignored!
Presumption today is common. He is now dressed as a proud technocrat and balances upright, like a gyroscope. The only slight ripple on today’s horizon might be ‘Climate Change’ or maybe a nuclear bomb! But so long as we all pull together, even this is unlikely and nothing to worry about. They presume that all of God’s commandments can be safely ignored; they are considered as ‘so last century’! Satan has little difficulty in persuading many that sin is now primarily just paedophiles, murderers and thieves. The first two commandments are totally ignored (no other gods and no idols). Men are easily persuaded that sin only has minor temporary consequences. If they believe there is a God, they presume that his love will prevail, and ignore the cost to God of Calvary being a necessity to redeem and forgive us our sin.
This careless trio are alive and well today
God said they would be. “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away.” Math 2437-39
But the day will come; and then it will be too late - as it was for 5 of the 10 virgins in the story that Jesus told. It may be a surprise to some readers that these three thought they were ‘Pilgrims’. But it was no surprise to Bunyan to find such men within the Church. Many Christians today still live careless, distracted lives; often more interested in rewarding their emotions than the discipline of learning truth and obeying it. Thus they are deceived and not ready for the day when the Lord Jesus will return. We need to read the four stories Jesus told in Math 244 - 2546 that warn us about what men will be doing when it seems his return is delayed. Being ‘ready’ requires belief in all the word of God, discernment about the days we are living in, and the obedience of a heart that is willing to be different. Sermons on the gracious warnings Jesus gave are rare. In the last days men will be scoffers, too busy, too distracted, too proud, too wicked, too blasphemous - and for most, too late!!
Formalist and Hypocrisy
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Who were these two and why were they paired? Bunyan tells us that they both came from the city Vain-glory and Christian sees them both climbing over the wall just ahead of him. Christian was surprised for he had been shown that the man who does not enter by the gate, but climbs in by another way, is a thief and a robber. (Jn 101) These two had taken a ‘short-cut’ and not entered the Way by the Wicket-gate. And thus they must have missed walking up the Way of Salvation and had not seen or experienced the Cross.
Formalist was confident that by keeping all the Church traditions and exercising the various ceremonies he would get to heaven. (This is especially common within the Roman Church or ‘high’ Church of England). Some years ago I actually heard the Bishop of Truro telling a middle-aged lady, who had become a believer in Christ and was about to be confirmed, that she had just been baptised into the Church. No! Fortunately the lady recognised the Bishop’s error and that it was by repentance and faith that she had been baptised into Christ.
2,000 years ago Jesus chastised the Scribes and Pharisees for being hypocrites. (See Math 23) They knew a lot about their religion, but nothing about new birth. They knew all 1,500 of their Sabbath rules, but nothing about keeping it holy. They thought that by keeping the Law, God would be pleased with them. They went to great lengths to try to show that they kept the Law and thereby impressed men. But they neglected the weightier matters of the Law: justice and mercy and faith. Math 2323 They failed to love the Lord your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deut 1113 They had a ‘formalist’ religion and practised hypocrisy skilfully. But Jesus saw though their sham and told them so. They had a form of godliness but denying its power, the power of Christ. Tim 35
On another occasion he told a story about two men who went up to the Temple to pray. One, a Pharisee, stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men–robbers, evildoers, adulterers ... The other, a Tax collector, stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ Lu 189-14 Jesus told them who was justified - and it wasn’t the Pharisee, the hypocritical formalist! No man can pretend before the Lord God, who sees and even knows all our thoughts.
Formalist and Hypocrisy laughed when Christian told them about the burden that had fallen off his back at the Cross. He also showed them his scroll and they could see the new clean clothes he had been given. But they just looked at each other, and again, they laughed at the plan which God chose to forgive men their sin. No man can keep all the Law. This inability is intended to lead us to Christ. (Gal 324)
Such men are never ashamed. They taunted Christian for being so poor that he had to wear clothes that were a gift from another. But Christian was glad to admit that he would otherwise be ragged; and the righteousness of Christ would never be dirty. It is far better sometimes to look within for a sign and then look to Christ and rejoice.
A short time later they came to the Hill called Difficulty. Neither of these men liked the idea of such a steep climb, so they elected to continue on a different path. One way was called Danger and the other Destruction. Both soon perished.
Any short cut that leaves out the Way of Salvation and the Cross cannot lead to the Celestial City, but only to inevitable disaster.
Formal religion may look good, it may well appeal to man’s vanity, but it is distinctly different from the way that Christ has opened up for all who repent and believe and who always seek to obey his word.
Hill Difficulty
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First it should be noted that the ‘Narrow Way’ leads right up to the Hill Difficulty. It cannot be avoided. Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Math 1624 Difficulties are sent by Almighty God that we may learn to trust him. And each time we will have more proof that he remains utterly faithful.
Christian was able to say:
“The Hill, though high, I covet to ascend;
The Difficulty will not me offend.”
Secondly, in climbing this Hill our God will reveal his unexpected provision of refreshing ‘springs of water’ and even places of ‘rest’. Though Christian had to learn that rest should not lead to sleep. We need to keep alert. There are many examples of such provision throughout scripture, especially during the Israelites journey from Egypt to Canaan. Jesus instructs us to “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” Math 2641 After a vigorous climb Christian made it to the top where he met Timorous and Mistrust running in the opposite direction. They had seen two lions who were waiting for their next dinner!
What difficulties, what fears can cause the Christian to forsake the Way of Christ?
1. Persecution is probably the most common ‘lion’. And it can easily be terrifying. Knowing examples in the Bible and throughout Christian history (especially in the Reformation period) can be of great encouragement when confronted by such ‘lions’. We may not dare to put ourselves alongside such men as Daniel, the Apostles, Bilney, Latimer or Tyndale, but there are countless others, less famous and often unnamed who were enabled to remain faithful by knowing the presence of Almighty God. Personally, I am naturally a wimp, but as Corrie ten Boom’s father told her, “You’ll get your ticket when the train comes in!”
2. Ill-health and Disappointment can also cause us to doubt. Times when it seems that God’s plan for our lives have to be revised or there is a difficulty we need to trust God to overcome. Fear caused Timorous and Mistrust to give up the pilgrim way. They were leaving God and his salvation. This is serious; life threatening!
Watchful
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Christian had to proceed, for he knew he could not go back. Yet when he saw the lions he was also afraid and waited for a moment. Watchful was the porter for the House called Beautiful. He saw Christian pause and called out to him not to be afraid, because both the lions were chained.
What immense value in any church is a man like Watchful, always on the lookout for pilgrims that need a touch of encouragement. Fear can often be a significant stumbling-block. Over 55 years ago I was afraid to ask a young lady if she would be my wife. Sharing this with a Christian friend, he simply said, “Why don’t you ask her?” So I did, and she said, “Yes!” (For the record, it was my fear that was the ‘lion’, not her!)
Prudence, Piety and Charity
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These good ladies welcomed Christian to their House called Beautiful. A house that was built by the Lord of the Hill for the relief and security of pilgrims. While supper was being prepared, Prudence questioned him about his thoughts, his anger and covetousness that still troubled his mind; and from which he earnestly desired to be freed. Thoughts about the Cross and the reading of his scroll helped greatly and magnified his desire to enter Mt Zion. Charity and Piety asked about his family and how much he prayed for them. Had he tried to persuade them to join him on pilgrimage? Indeed he had; but sadly they had all declined.
Christian slept well in the room called Peace. And in the morning he awoke refreshed to read about the history of the many servants who had fought valiantly for their Lord. He was taken to the armoury where he was given suitable weapons. He would very soon need them too. So the House was not only a place of beauty, its occupants encouraging and from where he could even see the Delectable Mountains, but he was here made ready for battle.
“God gives us weapons to use, not to play with.”
Apollyon
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This Prince of darkness hates to see pilgrims on their way to Heaven. We rarely see the depth of his ugly hatred, his delight in causing pain to any and all of God'’s creation. He tries to appear to us as an 'angel of light'. But he is always the great pretender and deceiver. When he appeared before Christian he does his best to discourage him by recounting all his failings, and by offering false rewards that are at best only temporary.
His hatred of the King of kings is well documented throughout history. He encouraged king Herod to slaughter all the babies of Bethlehem. He inspired the Pharisees and the crowd to demand “Crucify him, crucify him!” He enticed Hitler to murder 6 million Jews, of whom 1.5 million were children. When he failed to deceive Christian, he changed tactic and decided to fight him. But Christian was enabled to send him fleeing by using the sword of the Spirit. (Eph 613-18 Jms 47) We all need to learn likewise to resist the devil and see him flee. The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. The same Word that Jesus used when Satan tried to tempt him in the desert - three times he declared "It is written ..." Jesus told his disciples, then and now, the details of this great encounter with Satan that it could be a 'master class' in how to battle with the evil monster.
Christian used Scripture well when he met Apollyon, ‘Do not gloat over me, my enemy! Though I have fallen, I will rise.’ (Mic 78) And with these words he struck Apollyon a deadly blow.
As surely as any story that may be told, this reveals the vital importance of being armed with a good understanding of the Scriptures.
Pope and Pagan
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After Christian came through the dark, spiritual battle in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, helped by All-Prayer, he came to a cave - the home of two giants, Pope and Pagan. It was surrounded by the bones, blood and ashes of pilgrims. Both were old so Christian only saw Pope grinning in the entrance. Parliament passed the Act of Supremacy in 1534. Bunyan first published The Pilgrim’s Progress in 1678, 1½ centuries after the Reformation had seen the demise of the Roman Church in Britain, but it did not die.Today we need to beware of the ever increasing errors of Rome. (see article ‘26 Roman Catholic Errors (Use back arrow to return here)
The Pope is still able to allure the gullible by his popular appeal and numerous falsehoods. In the Great Tribulation the world will be ruled by the satanic Beast and his religious winger, the False Prophet.
Pagan was reputed to have died; but today he has introduced the Evolution Theory, a great lie. It is now taught as scientific truth. No longer is Almighty God honoured as Designer and Creator. This has led to the fulfilling of God’s promise in Ro 118-32 to remove his protection - and thus allow homosexuality to be legalised. (see 'Four Lies Deceiving the World' (Use back arrow to return here)
So, take care; both these giants are currently alive and well. Christ, the King of kings will slay both of them, along with all the wicked, when he returns.
Faithful and Talkative
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Bunyan again contrasts two men, two opposites, so that we can better appreciate the character of each. After being shown the cave of the giants, Christian sees another pilgrim. He has to use all his strength to catch up with him.
Faithful then told Christian all about how he had escaped from the flattering tongue of Madam Wanton. Then he met Adam the First from Deceit whose motto was Many Delights. He offered wages that would enable me to be his heir and have many servants. Also he had three daughters, 'Lust of the Flesh' (illicit sex), 'Lust of the Eyes' (covetousness is as idolatry) and 'The pride of Life' (self-indulgence) (1 Jn 216) - he could marry one of them if he liked. It all seemed very pleasant and he was inclined to go with him, when he noticed on Talkative’s forehead was written, 'Put off the old man with his deeds.' (Col 39) Only then did Faithful realise that he was a flatterer, and one who made false promises and tries to entice all men and women to sin. In reality he only wanted me for one of his slaves. He hurriedly left him, although he tried to grab Faithful as he turned away. Such is the power of temptation, the only sure escape is to flee without hesitation.
When in the Valley of Humiliation I met Discontent, who tried to persuade me to turn back because the valley was totally without honour. I also met Shame who said that a tender conscience is unmanly. He tried to ridicule me and show me how foolish I was. Perhaps he should have been called ‘No-Shame’. Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. Jer 615
Wanton, Discontent and Shame each attempted to turn Faithful back from being a pilgrim journeying to the Celestial City. It is only by the reliable armour of God and his gracious protection that any man may not be diverted from the Way. Under the Law, life was about earning wages; with Christ, it is about being continually in the debt of his mercy and grace.
Seeing Talkative, a seemingly upright man, going in the same direction, Faithful turned to speak with him. He was impressed with his grasp of Christianity. So Christian had to warn him that he was the son of Say-Well. He could talk about prayer and faith, but we have to practice what we preach - and he did not. ‘His home is as empty of religion as the white of an egg is of flavour’. We must always remember that 'The kingdom of God is not a matter of talk, but of power.' (1 Co 420) Talkative could speak about sin, but little about abhorring sin. He knew about what is right, but it is vital that when you know these things that you also do them (Jn 1317).
The significant contrast here is shown by a man who has received saving grace, who hates his old sinful nature, and is deeply ashamed at any remembrance of sin. He has heard God say, 'Your sins are forgiven.' (Lu 748) His constant desire is then to serve and obey his Master. He is not so much hungry for the blessings of God, but is hungry for God himself. He delights in holiness. When asked about this experience Talkative had no answer. So he promptly left Christian and Faithful. It is easier by far to talk about theology than to live out a righteous life. It is not wrong to talk and discuss, but with Talkative, that was all he ever did.
Vanity Fair
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When nearly through the district called ‘Wilderness’, they met Evangelist, who warned them: “Do not let any man steal your crown. For In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. (Heb 124) ... So you must keep your eyes on your goal and not allow yourselves to be deceived. Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer ... be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. Rev 210 In Vanity Fair it was obvious that they were ‘Pilgrims and strangers’. They spoke differently, they wore different clothes and they did not wish to buy any of their wares. They knew they had to beware of worldly pleasures. Many are innocent; but many more are destructive. Satan never sells his wares naked; he gilds them before he tries to sell them. As the angel said to Mary Magdalene, “Why seek the living among the dead?” Lu 245 Christian and Faithful told them clearly that their wares were distasteful. They sought truth, but none had this on offer. Therefore they were quickly arrested and brought before Judge Hate-good, where many traders accused them of even speaking against Prince Beelzebub. Envy and Superstition gave evidence against them, as did Lord Old-man, Lord Carnal-Delight, Lord Luxurious, Lord Desire-of-Vain-glory, Lord Lechery and Sir Having Greedy. All were glad to be witnesses against the Pilgrims.
Today Christian truth is unpopular, resisted and ridiculed. There is little or no respect for Almighty God. His name is continually blasphemed. His commands are discarded and are replaced with liberal, wicked laws in the UK. (Legalised abortion, homosexuality, Evolution theory, Sunday trading and sport, gambling and easy divorce.) Proclaiming God’s word is not yet against the law, yet preachers are often arrested. Soon it will also become a criminal offence or a 'hate crime'.
The jury, led by Mr Blindman, had no difficulty in giving a guilty verdict. And Judge Hate-God had no hesitation in declaring the ultimate sentence upon Faithful. We need to be aware that Vanity had a very worldly set of laws. Laws that declared evil good and good evil (Is 520), which Christian and Faithful disobeyed.
Christian was remanded in prison and it surprised many to hear him sing:
Sing, Faithful, sing, and let your name survive;
For, though they killed you, you are yet alive.
Faithful was condemned to death, but a surprise came when the Lord God opened a way for Christian to escape.
To illustrate the huge modern growth of Vanity, in 2022 UK advertisers in the media and Internet spent £35 billion encouraging us to buy what we often do not need with money we may not have. This resulted in an average personal debt in UK of £33,410 in 2022 (USA $101,000).
Bunyan rightly placed Vanity directly on the path to the Celestial City that all Christians have to walk. No one is exempt from the wiles of Vanity. Let us beware for we inevitably live all our lives surrounded by the world and all its allures. It is not just one small town along the path.
We need to learn from Christian and Faithful the dangers that confront us there.
May we ever ‘seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness’. Math 633
Remember ‘You cannot serve God and mammon’. Math 624
I once was lost in darkest night,
Yet thought I knew the way.
The sin that promised joy and life
Had led me to the grave.
I had no hope that You would own
A rebel to Your will;
And if You had not loved me first
I would refuse You still.
But as I ran my hell-bound race
Indifferent to the cost,
You looked upon my helpless state
And led me to the cross.
And I beheld God's love displayed;
You suffered in my place,
You bore the wrath reserved for me,
Now all I know is grace.
Now, Lord, I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me.
Oh Father, use my ransomed life
In any way You choose,
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You.
Hopeful
[Contents]
Christian did not leave Vanity alone. Hopeful had observed the witness of both Christian and Faithful. It had convinced him that theirs was the only true way to eternal life. So it was proved to be true, that ‘a martyr never dies in vain’. Hopeful was an excellent travelling companion for Christian all the way until they reached the Celestial City.
By-Ends
[Contents]
Christian and Hopeful set off at a good pace and soon caught up with Mr By-ends from Fair-speech. Knowing little about that town they asked him about it, and who lived there. He replied, “It is a wealthy place. There are not many of us, but I am related to most of the people. There is Lord Turnabout, Mr Smooth-Man, Mr Face-Both-Ways, Mr Anything, and the parson is Rev Two-Tongues. My grandfather was just a waterman, looking one way and rowing another. My wife is Lady Feigning's daughter, and concerning religion we have two main principles:
1. Never strive against wind or tide.
2. We love the popular religious occasions, when the sun shines and all the people clap and cheer. We avoid the confession of sin and see no need to plead with the God of love for mercy.
Bunyan recounts that the principles of By-Ends were so foreign to those of Christian and Hopeful, that they soon parted company. By-Ends continued with Hold-the-World, Money-Love and Save-All, who were his three old school friends. Their teacher had been Mr Gripeman of Love-Gain in County Coveting. From this schoolmaster they had learned the art of getting what they wanted by violence, flattery, lies or even by pretending to be religious. They had a form of religion, but denied the power (2 Tim 35) - the necessary power of God to gain our redemption and his power to be obedient.
All these names indicate the character of Mr By-Ends who loved nothing more than happiness, popularity, wealth and success. All he did was to further his own reputation and worldly life. He would happily use religion if that should enable him to prosper. His desire was to win the praise of men rather than to serve the Lord God 24/7, cost what it may, and thus bring glory to his Name.
Demas at Lucre
[Contents]
Christian and Hopeful made good progress through the district of Ease, a pleasant but short part of the journey. Then they came to a hill called Lucre, where there was a silver mine. Close by stood Demas. He had always been very successful in persuading travellers to visit the mine. Many had died doing so and all the rest had been badly maimed. The love of money is the root of all evil. 1Tim 610 By-Ends and his three friends responded immediately to the alluring Demas. But they were never seen or heard of again.
This warning has been ignored in every age. Most people say financial success is their #1 goal; all that really matters. With it you can be happy; without it you can’t be. Recently in UK the media comments on Brexit have been almost entirely based upon finance. Who will be better off and who will be poorer? Only very rarely was any consideration given to the fact that the EU has evil and blasphemous foundations or that its government is headed by a corrupt, unelected, dictatorial Commission. If ever there was a modern Demas this is it, and their end will be the same.
Riches can be well used, but it so easily can become an attractive distraction that draws men away from the kingdom of God, from honesty and truth, from righteousness and holiness.
Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonour the name of my God. Prov 308,9
An exceedingly rich man was asked how much he needed to make him happy. His surprising and honest reply was, “More, always a little bit more”.
Remember ‘a shroud has no pockets’. (When you die, you can take nothing with you.)
Giant Despair
[Contents]
When the way for Christian and Hopeful became painfully rough, they decided to travel on what seemed to be an easy-going grass field called By-Path Meadow. Vain-Confidence confirmed that it still led to the Celestial City. They foolishly believed him. But the field belonged to Giant Despair, who lived at Doubting Castle. He found them trespassing, so took them home and locked them in a dark dungeon. His wife Diffidence thought they should be beaten without mercy - so they were. Christian was more sad because he had persuaded his friend that the easy way was good. Next day they were still alive, so the giant gave the Pilgrims a knife to end their ordeal. Then they were shown a large pile of bones and skulls - Despair gloated that each of them had also been trespassers, but none had ever escaped.
That night they prayed for several hours until Christian suddenly found in his pocket a key called Promise. Mightily relieved, this enabled them to escape and return to the King’s Highway.
Many Christians have travelled along a road that became more difficult rather than the easier way that they had been told to expect. Beware when an easier, more popular, or apparently more ‘successful’, more joyful experience is presented. It could well be the subtle diversion of By-Path Meadow.
Down the years there have been many wicked men who have by different means gained power and have delighted to persecute Christians and cause them to despair. Many have been imprisoned, tortured, burned at the stake or just shot! Some were given a key called Promise that enabled them to escape. Others, perhaps most, gained their victory over despair by remembering the blood of the Lamb (Rev 714) and have thus been promoted to glory and given a martyr’s crown.
When Christiana and her children came to By-Path Meadow, they were accompanied by Great-Heart, who decided to challenge the giant. Despair was soon dead and so was his wife. Diffidence was slain with one blow from Old-Honesty when she tried to help her husband. Great-Heart was pleased to also rescue Mr Despondency and his daughter Much-Afraid. They spent a happy week demolishing Doubting Castle.
Constant ridicule by wicked men in the media can cause doubt to fester and grow. Some are very clever and able communicators, like David Attenborough or Professor Dawkins, who mock any idea of Creation or of there being any God. Our one sure source of assurance is the constant, unchanging truth that is found throughout God’s Word.
If we should ever find ourselves locked in Doubting Castle by Despair, caused by our own folly, remember the key called promise. All the promises of God are infallible. No circumstance can neutralise God’s truth. Our God is always faithful to his Word and will not allow us, or the severely persecuted, to be tempted beyond what he knows we can endure. (1 Co 1013) Let us do our utmost to help those in trial with prayer and with Bibles (including audio Bibles or memory card Bibles).
Also let us beware of any seemingly Christian way that is easy and popular. Jesus said, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” Math 7Small>13,14
Giant Despair was never permitted to go onto the Pilgrim’s Way like Apollyon.
Choosing an easier way can often lead to despair; but despair can also be the result of disappointment, bereavement, ill health etc.
Bunyan here, clearly connects disobedience with doubt and despair.
As Herrick wrote (slightly altered):
‘And when we think that God seems distant and grim,
The alteration is in us, not him.’
Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save;
neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:
But your iniquities have separated between you and your God,
and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Is 591,2
The key of promise is surely the Word of God, for which there is no effective substitute. Again and again it gives examples of his faithfulness to men in trouble. So let us learn and remember, and thus escape from the dungeon. Many of these are like the stars, they are only revealed in the darkness of night.
Christian and Hopeful left a warning sign for fellow Pilgrims:
Out of the way we went, and then we found
That we were treading upon forbidden ground;
Let them that come after have a care
Lest heedless they as we did fare,
Lest they for trespass, his prisoners are,
Whose castle's Doubting and whose name's Despair.
Be discerning as to what ‘trespassing’ means for you.
Take care not to be diverted by any way that avoids us being mocked. The way of God has always been ‘narrow’ and is often uphill. Let us make the most of the time God gives us and the opportunities he presents. The days ahead are going to be challenging. Remember Jesus said, “No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” Jn 1520 Count it a privilege; not something to be avoided by any means.
The Delectable Mountains
[Contents]
Here the Lord planted vineyards and there were many springs of water for crops. Four shepherds welcome them: Knowledge, Experience, Watchful and Sincere.
Next day they were shown:
A precipice called Error, where many had perished.
The place called Caution, where blind men wandered.
The By-Way to Hell for humanists and traitors like Esau and Judas.
This was a most frightening sight, and an awful smell.
Today such visions are rarely mentioned. Many preachers prefer to restrict their speaking to only about the love of God, about happy and comfortable things. Warnings and anything frightening are generally out of fashion. Although it is clearly written that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Perhaps that is why wisdom and discernment about the days we live in are also rare.
Lastly they climbed a hill called Clear where they could see the Celestial City in the distance. After all their various trials, this was sheer delight. It was the moment they had longed for.
Their time with the shepherds on the Delectable Mountains revealed both by the closer eternal beauty and the joy of what we have been saved for, They also saw something of the horror of what we have been save from. It was a time of looking forward to all that our loving God has promised us; and a looking back with greater appreciation to all the occasions when our gracious God has saved us from disaster.
As they left:
Knowledge gave them a map of the way.
Experience told them to beware of the Flatterer.
Watchful warned them not to sleep on the Enchanted Ground.
Sincere bade them, “God speed.”
Such a ‘delectable’ time must not cause us to relax our attention. The journey is not yet done; there are still dangers and pitfalls to ensnare the careless.
Ignorance
[Contents]
This man told them he was also going to the Celestial City, but he had no scroll to show at the gate. He just claimed: “I know my Lord's will and have lived well; I pray and give to charity and I have left my old country.”
Many Freemasons can rightly come under this name. They strive to do good, live respectably and certainly look after their own.
But Ignorance had not entered by the Wicket Gate or walked up the Way of Salvation. He never saw the Cross or experienced his burden fall away. He knew nothing of God’s daily mercy and forgiveness. He did not realise why Jesus had to be crucified. So Christian and Hopeful concluded that he may well be thought to be ‘a robber and a thief’.
Flatterer and his Net
[Contents]
They came to a fork in their path. A man in a white robe stood there and said he was also going to the Celestial City. So they followed him. Suddenly they were caught in a net and the white robe fell off the man and they realised he was the Flatterer. The shepherds had warned them about him and even given them a map. They were deeply sorry and confessed how foolish they had been; especially as the Shepherds had warned them of this danger. Eventually a Shining One came and after a brief punishment, released them from the net.
Remember that not all men are what they may seem to be. Nor are they going to the Celestial City. We need to be watchful about who we follow and discerning about the way, lest we be diverted.
The Enchanted Ground
[Contents]
The air made them feel drowsy. They had been journeying a long time and felt old and tired. But this was a time, not for sleep, but to remain alert. 1Thes 56) So they kept each other awake by good discussion, rehearsing the Word of God.
Atheist
[Contents]
He was an obvious fool who claimed to have travelled far and not found any city. He was returning home and suggested they did the same. An Atheist may be a very pleasant fellow and have no obvious needs. He may even be deservedly well thought of. But sadly he is invariably unwilling to hear the conviction of the Spirit. It hurts to see such folly.
Atheist is both blind and deaf. He thinks he is wiser than the Word of God and like Obstinate, he is deaf to any correction. He has no idea of what awaits all sinners without Christ’s forgiveness.
Hopeful and the River
[Contents]
Christian's travelling companion since Vanity Fair.
Here we see his true character and friendship.
They had come to the River, but it was very deep.
Christian said, "I am come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me." Ps 692
Hopeful said: “Have courage, my brother, I can feel the bottom and it is firm.”
Christian said, "The waves of death swirled about me;
the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me.” 2 Sam 225
Hopeful said, "I see the Gate and men standing on the bank to receive us.”
Christian said, "It is you they are waiting for, not me.”
Hopeful said, "These troubles are not a sign that God has forsaken you.
They are only meant to test your spirit.”
Christian said, "I see him again! and he tells me, 'when you pass through the waters I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.” Is 432
Such is the value of true friends.
In a few moments they were surrounded by a Heavenly Host who said,
“Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb.” Rev 199
Then the trumpets sounded as they came to the Gates where it was written,
'Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life
and may go through the gates into the city.' Rev 2214
Christiana’s Journey [Contents]
Christian had wept much and pleaded for his wife and his 4 boys to accompany him on pilgrimage, but they refused. Eventually news came that after many adventures and trials he had arrived at the Celestial City. Now it was Christiana’s turn to weep for she realised how badly she had treated him. She dreamed of a large scroll on which was recorded all that she had done. She cried, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” (Lu 1813)
Next day she had a visitor.
Secret
[Contents]
He told her that his name was ‘Secret’, and that he had come with a letter telling her the King was ready to forgive all her sins and inviting her to the Celestial City. She and the children were greatly relieved and determined to set off immediately. Secret had told her she would have to go first to the Wicket Gate and endure many troubles.
Mrs Timorous
[Contents]
She was the daughter of Mr Timorous who had been frightened of the lions.
Sadly she had not learned from her father’s experience and told Christiana she must be mad to even consider such a journey with four young children.
Mercy
[Contents]
Mercy felt compassion for Christiana and wanted to go on pilgrimage too, but wondered if she might be rejected. Christiana assured her, “Do not be afraid to come with me. The King who has sent for me is one who delights in mercy and is 'abounding in love to all who call to him'. (Ps 865) So come with me to the Wicket Gate and we will ask there.” Mercy wept for the relations she would leave behind, but was told, 'they who sow in tears shall reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.' (Ps 1265,6) When they arrived at the Slough of Despond it was even worse than when Christian had to cross it. But Mercy soon found the steps and led them safely across.
Keeper
[Contents]
At the Wicket Gate, they had to knock loudly and there was an angry dog barking at them. Christiana pleaded for Mercy, who had fainted. The Keeper assured her with kind words. And she explained why she had been knocking so loudly because she had read the notice above the door - 'to him who knocks, the door will be opened,' (Math 78). They then begged the Lord to forgive their sins and lead them on the rest of their journey. Keeper fed them and showed them the Way of Salvation to continue their journey.
Reliever
[Contents]
Soon after leaving they were threatened by two men. They screamed for help. Reliever came running to rescue them. He told them that when they were at the Gate he had wondered why they did not ask the Lord for a Conductor.
Christiana confessed, “We were so taken up with our blessings there that we forgot all about the dangers we would meet. ... I’m sorry, we had presumed that if we needed help, then the Lord would just give it to us.”
And Mercy said, “The Lord has delivered us even though we were so negligent. He has delivered us from hands that were stronger than ours. So we have learned much about his kindness and about our foolishness.”
Interpreter
[Contents]
Soon they came to the Interpreter's House that was built for the relief of Pilgrims. While supper was prepared, Interpreter showed them many things; as he had shown Christian and all pilgrims. They saw the caged man who saw nothing but despair. Sin and unbelief had made it impossible for him to discern God’s truth and salvation.
Then there was the man with a muck-rake that could only look down. He could only see as a humanist and refused to lift his eyes heavenwards.
He showed them a hen with her chicks and how whenever a chick drank, he would lift up its head to heaven. This showed the need for us to be continually thanking God for all his goodness and grace.
He took them to a slaughter-house where they saw a butcher killing a sheep. The sheep made no noise and did not struggle. Since your King calls you his sheep, you must learn to endure all wrongs and hurts without complaint.
They were shown a garden where there were many flowers, diverse in size, colour, scent and usefulness. They flourished in different types of soil, moisture and sunshine. But none of them quarrelled and desired to be somewhere else or something different.
Then Interpreter told them a few proverbs:
“There is a desire in women to dress attractively; but let it be attractive in God's sight.”
“It is much easier to be watchful for a night or two than for a year; so it is easier to begin to profess well than to go on to the end.”
“One leak can sink a ship; and one sin can destroy a sinner.”
“He that lives in sin and looks for eternal happiness is like a man who sows weeds and expects to fill his barn with a harvest of wheat.”
“If in this world there is so much of beauty; how much more beautiful is the Heaven which God has commended.”
“Everyone is glad at the goodness of men; but who rejoices at the goodness of God?”
In the garden the Interpreter showed them an elm tree that had grown well and had good foliage but the main trunk was hollow and it was in great danger of being blown down. He explained that in God's garden there are some honourable men who speak highly of God but inside they are rotten and only fit for the devil's fire.
At supper, Interpreter asked Christiana and Mercy how they became pilgrims. He was delighted at their replies and told Mercy she was like Ruth who for the love she had for Naomi and for her Lord and God left her home country and relations. “You have put yourself under the wings of the Lord God of Israel, and he will reward you.” That night Mercy could hardly sleep for joy; for her lingering doubts were removed. She lay blessing God and wondering at the favour that he had given to her.
In the morning they washed and Interpreter marked their foreheads with a seal and they were given new linen clothes. Then he instructed Great-Heart to escort the ladies to the house called Beautiful.
Great-Heart
[Contents]
He led them up the way of Salvation till they came to the Cross where Christian was relieved of his burden. At the Gate they had been told that pardon was by promise and by deed. They had learned something about the promise, but now asked Great-Heart to explain the deed. He told them: “Pardon by deed is achieved because Another takes action; action which we are not able to take. He gives us his righteousness, but the gift does not make him less righteous. In the same way, when he who has two coats gives away one of them, he still has a coat to wear. Jesus Christ is the one who worked for and gave away his earnings to us poor beggars. Justice demands that there is a price, a ransom that must be paid for everyone who sins. It can only be paid with righteous blood - blood that no man has ever had, except Jesus Christ. So pardon is by deed because he alone could make the perfect sacrifice required. Now you can see why it was here, at the Cross, that Christian's burden fell off his back.”
Christiana said, “I also feel much lighter in spirit since being here, and my heart loves him so much for he paid ten thousand times more than I am worth.”
Simple, Sloth and Presumption
[Contents]
A short distance further on they came to where they saw three men hanging on gallows. Simple, Sloth and Presumption that Christian had found sleeping and warned of the danger. But they had rejected his advice and had paid the price.
Great-Heart told them that they had also persuaded Slow-pace, Short-wind, No-heart, Linger-after-lust and Dull not to bother with going on pilgrimage.
Laziness remains a problem in our day when you might think that with all the household aids, a 5-day working week plus 28 days paid holiday/year and 8 bank-holidays, they would give us more spare time. Perhaps TV takes up too much time with an average UK adult viewing of over 3½ hours/day (mostly ‘entertainment’). How much time do Christians devote to Bible study and prayer? A truthful survey may be embarrassing.
Hill of Difficulty
[Contents]
Great-Heart showed them a spring of water, but it was now muddy and the water needed to be purified.
When they stopped at the Prince’s Resting hut, they remembered the experience of Christian.
Mercy said, “How sweet is rest to them that labour! And how good of the Prince of Pilgrims to provide such a resting place. But let us take care not to sleep here, for it is dangerous, as Christian found to his cost.”
Great-Heart asked the boys what they thought of being on pilgrimage.
Youngest “I would not have made it if you hadn't helped me.
My mummy said that the way to life is steep and narrow,
but the way to hell is wide and easy.”
Mercy “Yes, to go down hill is easy.”
James “True, but the day is coming when to go down the hill will be hardest of all.”
Great-Heart “That is a good answer, James.”
Mercy smiled, but James blushed.
Great-Heart “When resting, some sleep when they should keep awake,
and some forget what they should remember.
So a place of rejoicing often ends in tears.”
Giant Grim
[Contents]
At the top of the Hill, as they came near the lions, Giant Grim appeared and tried to block their way. Great-Heart thrust at him with his sword and made the giant retreat. “It is the Kings Highway that we are in and you have no right to be here or to place these lions to frighten women and children.” The next blow brought Grim to his knees and he roared. But soon he was dead and would not trouble any more travellers. The lions still looked very fierce, but they remained chained.
House called Beautiful
[Contents]
Here Great-Heart, obeying his Lord’s instructions, had to leave them.
Mercy had a dream that had a most happy ending. She saw herself alone, bemoaning her hardness of heart and teased by all who passed by. Then an angel came and spoke peace to her. He wiped her eyes, gave her new clothing and a crown. He led her to a golden Gate at which he knocked. Inside was One seated on a throne, who said, “Welcome, daughter.” The place was bright and twinkled like the stars.
Prudence then questioned the 4 boys. Each gave excellent answers that greatly pleased both their mother and Prudence.
Mr Brisk began to call on Mercy; he claimed to be a Christian, but he soon found that she was too interested in helping the poor and needy. A good marriage requires that they both have the same principal goals.
Their month at this well named place was now over and they had to continue their journey. As they were leaving Great-Heart appeared with fresh instruction to accompany them all the way to the Celestial City.
Valley of Humiliation
[Contents]
Walking along the valley they heard a shepherd boy singing:
He that is down need fear no fall:
He that is low, no pride;
He that is humble ever shall
Have God to be his Guide. ...
Great-Heart told him that the place where Christian had to fight Apollyon was just beyond Forgetful-Green, where pilgrims sometimes forget the great grace and favours that have been given to them.
Mercy was glad. No traffic, no molesting, and time to think of the King and of his calling.
She said, “Here the heart is melted and the eyes become filled with tears.
'Blessed are those whose strength is in the Lord, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage'. Ps 845
‘This is the one that I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word'. Is 662”
Valley of Shadow of Death
[Contents]
Since it was daylight and Great-Heart was with them it was much easier for them than it had been for Christian. Nevertheless they did hear the groaning of dying men and the hissing of serpents. God graciously gave them enough light to see their path. Samuel said, “It is better to pass through here than to stay here for ever! This way has been prepared for us that our Home might be all the sweeter.”
What a wise boy.
Giant Maul
[Contents]
Coming out of his cave he accused Great-Heart of kidnapping women and children. He replied, “I am a servant of the God of Heaven and my business is to persuade sinners to repentance, and that they might turn from the power of Satan unto God. So if this is our quarrel, then let us fight.”
So they did. After about an hour of fierce fighting Maul was dead. They rejoiced and praised God for their deliverance.
Mr Honest
[Contents]
He was an old man, asleep under an oak tree. He was so glad to see fellow pilgrims. His heart was well tuned and he knew what to say to each.
“Matthew, may you be like Matthew the publican, not in vice but in virtue. Samuel, you must be like Samuel the prophet, a man of faith and prayer.
Joseph, you shall learn to be like Joseph in Potiphar's house, chaste and one who runs away from temptation.
And James, you shall learn to be Just, like James the brother of our Lord.”
He was especially thrilled to see Mercy. “Mercy is your name, and by mercy you shall be sustained through all difficulties until the day when you shall see the Fountain of Mercy face to face with great comfort.”
Old Mr Honest was wise like the men of Issachar were to king David:
they understood the times and knew what Israel should do. 1 Ch 1232
Mr Fearing
[Contents]
As they walked on together, they talked about Mr Fearing, a pilgrim who had caused Great-Heart and others much trouble. When he decided to set out for the Celestial City, he would not cross the Slough of Despond, although many offered to help him. A whole month passed before he was willing to cross. When he arrived at the Wicket-Gate he kept ushering others on in front of him. Eventually he knocked himself, but immediately withdrew. This was in spite of having a special note from the King, who is most tender to those who are afraid. He was almost starved to death by the time he arrived at the Interpreter House. Even there he sighed most of the time. Only when he saw the Cross and the Sepulchre was there any gladness on his face. He had no trouble with the Hill Difficulty or even with the Lions. His fear was only that he might not be accepted at the journey's end. Sin, death and hell were to him a special terror.
At the house Beautiful he was very quiet. He was so ashamed of himself, but loved to listen to good talk and to see all the ancient things. For him the Valley of Humiliation was easy and the Valley of the Shadow of Death was the quietest it has ever been. It seemed that the Lord of Heaven and Earth had put a special stop to all the noise and darkness as he passed through.
At Vanity he fought with all who loved revelry. On the Enchanted Ground he had no difficulty keeping awake. But when he arrived at the River and saw that there was no bridge, he was most despondent. He thought he would surely be drowned for ever. But the river was so low that he only got his feet wet. So he passed on to the Celestial City.
“No fears, no grace,” said James, “there is not always grace where there is fear of Hell, but there cannot be any grace where there is no fear of God.”
Mr Self-Will
[Contents]
Mr Honest then told them about a man called Mr Self-will who pretended to be a pilgrim, but he did not enter by the Gate. Furthermore, he preached that a man could follow both the vices and virtues of the Pilgrims. There was no harm in doing what David did with Bathsheba; and you could lie like Sarah, or Rahab or the mid-wives in Egypt. ...
But each had to repent for their obvious sins; without repentance there is no forgiveness. What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! Ro 61
Mr Self-Will did not enter the Celestial City.
House of Gaius
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Gaius was an innkeeper who loved pilgrims.
They had been on pilgrimage for some years and Matthew was now a young man, so Mr Gaius suggested that it would be good if Mercy became Matthew's wife. They agreed. So Matthew and Mercy were married. He gave his own daughter Phoebe to James and they were married also.
After they had eaten, Mr Honesty gave them a riddle to solve.
A man there was, though some did call him mad,
The more he cast away, the more he had.
After considering for a moment, Mr Gaius solved it saying:
He who thus bestows his goods upon the poor,
Shall have as much again, and ten times more.
It was now late so Great-Heart gave Old Mr Honest a riddle to solve.
He that would kill, must first be overcome;
Who would live abroad, first must die at home.
“Ha!” said Mr Honest, “that is a hard one; hard to expound and harder still to practice.”
He first by grace must conquered be that flesh would mortify:
To be assured of life in heaven unto himself must die.
Giant Slay-good
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Next morning Mr Gaius told them that there was a giant called Slay-good, who lived nearby and had done much damage to pilgrims. He proposed that they stop his evil activities. They readily agreed. So they set off; Great-Heart with his sword, helmet and shield and the rest with spears. The Giant was in his den and about to kill and devour Mr Feeble-mind. He paused and demanded to know why this deputation had invaded his territory. “To revenge the blood of many pilgrims,” said Great-Heart. So they started to fight. It was not long before Slay-good lost his weapon and very soon afterwards also his head!
In the long history of the world there have always been wicked men whose prime desire has been to kill the righteous, even the Son of God. And of his chosen Apostles called to begin building the Church of the Redeemed, not one of them died quietly in his bed!
Vanity
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In Vanity lived an old disciple, Mr Mnason. He welcomed them all and gathered some of the good people that now lived there - Mr Contrite, Mr Holy-man, Mr Love-saints, Mr Dare-not-lie and Mr Penitent.
Mr Mnason had two daughters - he gave Grace to marry Samuel and Martha to Joseph.
The town was generally quieter now. It seemed that they became ashamed of burning Faithful. But fair-time was still bad. Probably similar to parts of Cornwall that still ‘Cry the Neck’ at Harvest, Helston that has it’s annual Flora Day and Padstow it’s Hobby Horse. These and others remain a spiritual bind in these parts.
Delectable Mountain Shepherds
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The shepherds Knowledge, Experience, Watchful and Sincere welcomed them and specially four other pilgrims called Mr Feeble-mind, Mr Ready-to-halt, Mr Despondence and Mrs Much-afraid. They would otherwise have been reluctant to join Christiana and her family. From there they could see Mt Innocence which Prejudice and Ill-will were always trying to cover with dirt. The shepherds gave their guests gifts before sending them on their way.
Valiant-for-Truth
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He appeared with his face covered with blood and a drawn sword in his hand. He had been fighting Wildhead, Inconsiderate and Pragmatic. They had given him 3 options: join them, return home or die. Valiant-for-Truth was not willing for any of these, so he fought. Now the women carefully dressed his wounds.
As they crossed the Enchanted Ground, Great-Heart led the way and Valiant-for-Truth guarded the rear. A thick mist descended and they had to 'feel one another by words', for they could not walk by sight. They came across two men asleep, Heedless and Too-bold. They tried to wake them, but failed.
It was here that the younger people, who were very tired, cried loudly to him that loves pilgrims. Moments later the wind rose and the fog cleared.
Mr Steadfast and Madam Bubble
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They found Mr Steadfast on his knees calling to God for help. Madam Bubble had repeatedly tried to entice him claiming she was Mistress of the World who made all men happy. Mr Honest said that many men had been deceived by her and had ceased to follow the Pilgrim’s way. She had always made kings fight each other and caused families to separate.
Madam Bubble has been very active in our day on the Media and the Internet. She has caused many to stumble. For starters each year since UK 2018 over 200,000 women had abortions, and 5 teenagers were among the 718 women who had had at least 6 abortions each.
The River
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Christiana was the first to be called by the Master. “He expects that you should stand in his presence in clothes of immortality in the next 10 days.” She thanked Valiant-for-Truth, blessed her children and gave a ring to Mr Standfast. Calling Mr Honest she said, “Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile.” To Mr Ready-to-halt she said, “Your travel has been with difficulty, but it will make the rest all the sweeter. But now you must watch and be ready, for the messenger may come when you least expect him.” To Mr Feeble-mind she said, “You were delivered from Giant Slay-good that you may live and see your King with comfort. So take care that you turn from all fear and doubt of his goodness before he sends for you.” Her last words were, “I come Lord, to be with you and to bless you.”
Soon the messenger arrived and asked for Mr Ready-to-halt. He said to him, “I am come from him that you have loved and followed, though upon crutches. He now expects you at his table, to dine with him in his Kingdom.” Mr Ready-to-halt had nothing to leave in his will except his crutches, which he left to his son who shall walk in his steps. His last words were, “Welcome Life.”
It was for Mr Feeble-mind that the messenger came next, with the words, “Your Master needs you. Very soon you must behold his face in brightness.” Mr Feeble-mind had nothing at all to leave that would be of any value to a pilgrim. But he asked Valiant-for-Truth to bury his feeble-mind in a dung hill for he would have no further use of it. His last words were, “Hold out, Faith and Patience!”
After many days Mr Despondency and his daughter were sent for. “Trembling man, you are summoned to be ready to go and be with the King. Shout for joy, for the day of deliverance from all your doubting has come.” He said to all the company who were left, “I know that after my death the despondency and slavish fears will offer themselves to other pilgrims. So be sure to shut the door on them.” His last words were, “Farewell, night; welcome, day!”
And as his daughter went though the river she sang a beautiful song, but none could understand the words.
When Mr Honest was called, he said to his friends, “I die, but shall make no will. My honesty shall go with me, but be sure to tell those that come after me.” Now the river was in full flood and even overflowed its banks in places. But there was one called Good-conscience to meet him and he helped him cross. His last words were, “Grace reigns.”
Mr Valiant-for-truth was the next to be called. He told all on the river bank, “I am going to my Father. And though I arrived here with great difficulty I do not regret it at all. My sword I give to him that shall succeed me, my courage and skill to him that can get it. My scars I carry with me as witness that I have fought his battles, who now will be my reward.” As he crossed over his last words were, “Death, where is your sting?” And going a little further he stopped and said, “Grave, where is your victory?” All the trumpets sounded for him on the other side.
Then Mr Standfast was called and the messenger said to him, “The Master is not willing that he should be so far from you any longer.” Mr Standfast asked Great-Heart if he would tell his wife and five small children how he had arrived at the Celestial City. And also about Christian and Christiana and the others. “It may be,” he said, “that our prayers and tears and your words will prevail, and they become pilgrims.” There was a great calm on the day he was to cross the river. When halfway he stopped and said, “This river has been a terror to many. But now I stand on a firm footing, just where the feet of the priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant stood while Israel went across this Jordan. The water is to the taste bitter and to the stomach cold, yet the thought of what awaits me on the other side is like a glowing coal at my heart. Now my toilsome days are ended.” Then he added, “Take me, for I come to you.” And he was seen no more.
So it was that all the pilgrims safely crossed the river. Mr Ready-to-Halt, Mr Despondency, Mr Feeble-Mind who had so much trouble on their journey had no difficulty at the river. Each crossed with such joy and faith. Let this be a good lesson; that amidst the tears, there is great gladness for them in the Celestial City which is shared with those who await their own calling.
A Final Word
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Many of the incidents during both their journeys are not intended to be isolated.
In the story the Hill of Difficulty occurs only once. But in a Christian’s life he will certainly have to climb this Hill many times. On the other hand he will only enter through the Wicket Gate once. He will come to the Cross and be ‘Born again’ once; but he will need to plead the mercy of God at the Cross many times.
He will obviously only be called to cross the River once.
He will meet with each of the different characters many times.
Each experience will enrich his life and understanding.