After this Evangelist called aloud to the Heavens for confirmation of what he had said; and immediately there came words and fire out of the Mountain, under which poor Christian stood, that made his hair to stand on end. The words that poured forth were as follows: “As many as are of the works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, Cursed is everyone who does not continue to live according to all things that are written in the Book of the Law, that is to obey them.”(1)
Now Christian anticipated nothing but death, and so gave out an agonizing cry, even cursing the occasion when he met Mr. Worldly-Wiseman, and called himself a thousand fools for paying attention to his advice. He also felt terribly ashamed to think that this gentleman’s arguments, though originating from the flesh, should prevail with him and be the cause of his abandonment of the right way. So, having scolded himself, he again directed himself to Evangelist with great earnestness.
CHRISTIAN: Sir, tell me what you think. Is there any hope for me? May I now return to the right way and then approach the Wicket-gate? Or shall I be abandoned on account of my waywardness, and be sent back to certain shame at the City of Destruction? I am heartily sorry for having listened to this man’s counsel; yet may my sin be forgiven?(2)
EVANGELIST: Your sin is very great since you have in fact committed two evils; you have forsaken the way that is good, and then pursued forbidden paths.(3) Nevertheless, the man at the Gate will welcome you because he offers goodwill to approaching pilgrims.(4) Even so, be careful that you do not turn aside again, for then you may perish altogether when his wrath is kindled but a little. (5)
The Pilgrim’s Progress, John Bunyan
- Gal. 3:10
- Christian enquires if he may yet be happy.
- Jer. 2:13
- Evangelist comforts Christian. Luke 2:14, KJV
- Ps. 2:12
- Do you see now why legalism can be such a terrible thing when it resides in the heart?
- What do you think about how Christian felt after Evangelist’s admonition of his actions?
- Was there hope for Christian?
- Are you guilty of the same two evils as Christian?
- Do you see the hope in which Evangelist left Christian with as he continues on his journey?
“Legalism is the tendency to regard as divine law things which God has neither required nor forbidden in scripture and the corresponding inclination to look with suspicion on others for their failure or refusal to conform.” – Sam Storms
