The Pilgrim’s Progress
April 26, 2020 • Chris Reighley
Introduction
Every pilgrimage begins with a burden. In this first stage of The Pilgrim’s Progress, we meet a man named Christian who awakens to his desperate condition—clothed in rags, burdened by guilt, and terrified of judgment. With nothing but a book in his hand and a fire in his bones, he turns his back on the City of Destruction and sets out for the Celestial City. But not everyone shares his urgency. Obstinate mocks, Pliable abandons, and Mr. Worldly-Wiseman offers a shortcut to safety—one that leads straight to legalistic bondage.
This stage introduces the anatomy of true conversion: conviction of sin, counting the cost, and forsaking self-righteousness. Christian’s first steps are halting and often misguided, but grace guides him forward. His path is narrow, the burden is heavy, and the journey has just begun.
If you’ve ever wondered what real repentance looks like—or why self-help religion can’t save you—this first stage will hold up a mirror to your soul.
“Sir, I understand by the book in my hand that I am condemned to die, and after that to come to judgment.”
— Christian
Episode Outline: The First Stage
Title: “Fleeing Destruction: The Awakening of the Soul”
1. Christian Flees the City of Destruction
- He reads the book (the Bible) and trembles.
- Awakens to the judgment and burden of sin (Hebrews 9:27; Psalm 38:4).
- His family and neighbors reject his urgency.
- Application: Conviction is the first sign of grace.
2. Obstinate and Pliable Pursue Christian
- Obstinate represents the stubborn heart; refuses to leave.
- Pliable initially joins, easily moved by promises.
- Contrast: hard-hearted resistance vs. shallow emotional response.
3. Conversation Along the Way
- Pliable is thrilled with the promises but unmoved by the cost.
- Christian emphasizes eternal glory—based on Scripture alone.
4. The Slough of Despond
- A muddy swamp of conviction and guilt.
- Pliable turns back—proving his rootless faith (Luke 8:13).
- Christian is rescued but still carries the burden.
5. Christian Meets Mr. Worldly-Wiseman
- Offers shortcut to peace: morality, legality, and human effort.
- Tempts Christian to abandon grace for works.
- Leads him toward Mount Sinai—where the burden grows heavier.
6. Christian Seeks the Town of Morality
- Realizes too late that legalism cannot save (Galatians 2:16).
- Must return to the narrow way marked by the Cross.
Scriptural Themes:
- Matthew 7:13–14 – “Enter through the narrow gate…”
- Hebrews 12:25 – “Do not refuse Him who is speaking…”
- Grace Abounding – Bunyan’s own conversion parallels Christian’s path
Key Applications:
- Conviction of Sin – The burden is the Spirit’s work of awakening.
- Count the Cost – The way is narrow, not convenient.
- Works Can’t Save – Morality and law-keeping can’t remove guilt.