8. Pliable Proves His Name

The conversation between Christian and his neighbors Obstinate and Pliable continues:

OBSTINATE: Come then, neighbor Pliable, let us turn about and go home without him. He represents those crazy-headed coxcombs [pompous and silly strutting cocks] who, when possessed by some blind passion, are wiser in their own eyes than seven men who can offer a reason. (1)

PLIABLE: Perhaps you are right. But don’t be so critical; if what good Christian says is true, then the things that he seeks after are better than ours; my heart is inclined to go with my neighbor.

OBSTINATE: What! Are there more fools than one? Be ruled by me and go back. Who knows where such a brain-sick fellow will lead you? I insist, go back, go back, and be wise.

CHRISTIAN:(2) Come with me neighbor Pliable. There are such things to be had which I spoke of, and many more glories besides. If you do not believe me, then read here in my book; for assuredly the truth of what is expressed in these pages has been fully confirmed by the blood of he who wrote it.(3)

PLIABLE: Well neighbor Obstinate, I begin to come to a point [of decision]. I intend to go along with this good man, and throw in my lot with him. But, my good companion, do you know the way to this desirable place?

(1) Prov. 26:16. (2) Christian and Obstinate in conflict over Pliable’s soul. (3) Luke 22:20; Heb. 9:17-28; 13:20-21.

John Bunyan, The Pilgrim’s Progress

1. Do you see why neighbor Obstinate has the name that was given him? Think of someone you know who is obstinate, do you see similarities between them and the character in the story?

2. Do you see why neighbor Pliable has the name that was given him? Do you know someone who is like that and how are they the same?

3. Do you notice how Christian points Pliable to what is written in his “Book” (The Bible)? Is that not to be the response of believers, to point them to the Word of God?

4. How far do you think neighbor Pliable will go with Christian? What reasons do you have?

“The blindness of unbelievers in no way detracts from the clearness of the gospel, for the sun is no less resplendent because the blind do not perceive it.” – John Calvin

I hope that these short devotionals somehow put a fire upon your hearts to get the entire book of The Pilgrim’s Progress and begin reading on your own this epic tale of the Christian pilgrimage from beginning to end.