An Evil Report

Journey to the Celestial City #35. In our continuing look at John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress," today we find the man, Christian, having defeated Apollyon, he gives praise to God and receives a healing touch. He thus picks up his journey again. But as reality would have it's say, another trial awaits the good man. Not too far along he comes upon the Valley of the Shadow of Death which he "must needs go through." Initially, he's greeted by two men who are "children of them that brought up an evil report of the good land." Speaking to Christian about the frightful dangers that lie ahead, these would have him to run the other way. But he sees through the doubting chatter venturing to continue into the belly of the beast instead. And there are many voices/counsels that would turn us out of the path. And we might give heed to these except for the example of the apostles and prophets and testimony of our Lord Himself. "We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." (Acts 14:22b) "'For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.'" (Matthew 16:25) More to come in the next blog post. Check back soon. (To read this entire blog post series, scroll down to "Pilgrim's Progress Series" in the left sidebar.) pp 52-54