6. Christian is Pursued

CHRISTIAN IS PURSUED BY OBSTINATE AND PLIABLE

The neighbors also came out to see him run; (1) and as he ran, some mocked, others threatened; and some cried for him to return. Now among those that did so, there were two that were determined to fetch him back by force. The name of one was Obstinate, and the name of the other was Pliable. Now by this time the man was a good distance ahead of them; however, they were resolved to pursue him, and this they did and in a little while overtook him. Then said the man [Christian], “Neighbors, why have you come after me?” They said, “To persuade you to go back with us.” But he said, “That can by no means be. You dwell in the City of Destruction, (the place where I also was born) as it appears, and dying there sooner or later, you will sink lower than the grave, into a place that burns with fire and brimstone.(2) Be more content good neighbors, and go along with me.”

John Bunyan, The Pilgrim’s Progress

(1) They that fly from the wrath to come are a gazing-stock[entertaining spectacle] to the world. Jer. 20:10.

(2) Gen. 19:24; Rev.20:15; 21:8.

1. When you first became a believer were you ridiculed by friends and family? Did it hinder you at all as you started out on your pilgrimage?
2. Do think that his neighbors are truly concerned for Christian’s eternal wellbeing? Why or why not?
3. Would you have approached the neighbors a different way? If so, how?
4. Do you think that this, along with his family’s response to his going on this pilgrimage, will be the first of many tests? Do you think he will need perseverance from beginning to end?

Christian’s pilgrimage is just starting, he will be in need of the Lord’s great strength to reside in him, for the journey will challenge more than he could ever know.

“The road to the Kingdom is not so pleasant, and comfortable, and easy, and flowery, as many dream. It is not a bright sunny avenue of palms. It is not paved with triumph, though it is to end in victory. The termination is glory, honor, and immortality; but on the way, there is the thorn in the flesh, the sackcloth, and the cross. Recompense later; but labor here! Rest later; but weariness here! Joy and security later; but here endurance and watchfulness – the race, the battle, the burden, the stumbling block, and oftentimes the heavy heart.” – Horatius Bonar