Pilgrim's Progress 5

( Talkative, Christian, & Faithful)

Good morning and welcome to our online book study of Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress. For more information regarding this study click HERE. Also, remember that we are going to discuss the book according to the various stages detailed HERE.

Today we are discussing the Fifth Stage: Discourse with Faithful, Talkative and Faithful, and Talkative's Character.

In stage we are introduced to the character Faithful. As Christian and Faithful begin their conversation they share the different experiences that each has had during their journey thus far. We must recognize here that they experienced different hardships and trials. Christian really struggled with the Slough of Despond. Faithful passed through it with no trouble at all. This reminds us that all of us have different trials and testings in our lives. God has a different plan for each one of us.

Later in their conversation, Faithful tells of his encounter with Shame. Shame attempts to persuade Faithful that his religion will only bring him shame and ridicule. I see Shame as the kind of person who constantly reminds us of all the things we are 'missing out' on because of our service to Christ. These are the people who call us fools and encourage us to live for ourselves. Faithful accurately remembers that "that which is highly esteemed among men, is had in abomination with God." Here is a reminder for us to pursue eternal reward from our heavenly Father and not the fleeting praise of man. How small the derision of men will seem when we hear our Savior say, "Well done thou good and faithful servant."

As Christian and Faithful journey on, they encounter Talkative, a hypocrite from the City of Destruction who can say all the right words but does not live a life consistent with his talk. I think it is important for us to recognize the value of Christian to Faithful. Were it not for Christian, Faithful would have been grievously deceived by Talkative. Christian brought Faithful to his senses and exposed Talkative's true character. The principle here is to surround yourself with wise and discerning people who can help protect you from the wolves who walk around in sheep's clothing.

Also, notice the back and forth dialogue between Faithful and Talkative. As Faithful exposes the hypocrisy, Talkative has less and less to say. Faithful accurately 'pegs' Talkative when he says, "Indeed, to know is a thing that pleaseth talkers and boasters; but to do is that which pleaseth God."

Your Turn
Now it is time for you to share with us some of your highlights. Share how this section encouraged you or challenged you.

Next Week
Next Monday, we will discuss the Sixth Stage: Evangelist overtakes Christian & Faithful; Vanity Fair; the Pilgrims brought to trial; Faithful's martyrdom