The Second Stage

The Pilgrim’s Progress

May 3, 2020 • Chris Reighley

Introduction

The narrow gate is open—but the journey has only just begun.

In this powerful second stage of The Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian arrives trembling at the Wicket-gate, uncertain if he’ll be received. To his surprise, the Gatekeeper named Good Will (a figure of Christ) doesn’t just welcome him—he pulls him through the gate, rescuing him from the enemy’s arrows and confirming the grace of God toward broken sinners.

Yet salvation is not the end of Christian’s learning—it’s the beginning. Good Will sends him next to the House of the Interpreter, a vivid training ground for every new pilgrim. There, through powerful illustrations and soul-searching warnings, Christian learns the difference between the law and the gospel, the danger of false security, and the spiritual warfare required to persevere.

This stage is the theological heart of Bunyan’s message—pastoral, practical, and piercing. And it reveals a vital truth: Every saved soul must be taught by the Spirit, strengthened by the Word, and sobered by the reality of judgment.

“Strive to enter… for many shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able.”

— Luke 13:24

Episode Outline: The Second Stage

Title: “Pulled Through Grace, Prepared for Battle”

Part 1: Christian Arrives at the Wicket Gate

• The gate says: “Knock and it shall be opened…” (Matt. 7:7).
• Good Will (Christ) opens and pulls him in—a picture of sovereign rescue from Satan’s arrows.
• This marks conversion: repentance, trust, and entry into the way of life.
• Application: Many are close to the gate but never enter. Christian did not earn it—he pleaded for mercy.

Part 2: The House of the Interpreter – 7 Essential Lessons

1. The Portrait of the Godly Pastor

• Eyes lifted to heaven, the Word in hand, truth on lips, the world behind.
• Only such men are fit to guide pilgrims.
• Application: Seek spiritual leadership from those who fear God and handle Scripture faithfully.

2. The Law and the Gospel

• A dusty room choked by sweeping (Law), but cleaned by water (Gospel).
• The Law reveals sin; the Gospel cleanses.
• Application: You cannot be sanctified by moral effort. Only grace purifies.

3. Passion and Patience

• Passion demands treasure now—and ends in rags.
• Patience waits for eternal reward—and receives lasting joy.
• Application: Don’t trade eternal glory for earthly gratification.

4. The Grace of Christ Conquers the Heart

• Satan pours water to quench the fire; Christ secretly pours oil to sustain it.
• Illustration: Behind every believer’s perseverance is Christ’s sustaining grace.

5. The Valiant Pilgrim

• Many hesitate at the palace gate, afraid of battle.
• One says, “Set down my name, Sir,” draws his sword, and fights through.
• Application: The kingdom is entered by the valiant, not the indifferent.

6. The Despairing Reprobate in the Iron Cage

• A man once full of promise now cannot repent.
• He rejected grace so long that God gave him over.
• Application: Take warning. Don’t delay surrender or trifle with God’s mercy.

7. The Day of Judgment

• A dream of Christ returning in fire.
• The books are opened. Some are taken, others left.
• Application: The end is real. Be ready. Live soberly.

Scriptural Themes:

• Luke 13:24 – “Strive to enter through the narrow door…”
• Hebrews 12:25 – “Do not refuse Him who is speaking.”
• John 14:6 – Christ is the way, the truth, and the life.

Key Applications:

1. We may need to be pulled – Salvation is a rescue, not a reward.
2. We are attacked at the gate – Satan hates the new convert.
3. The road is hard, but the way is sure – Don’t mistake grace for ease.