Pilgrim's Progress

After much deliberation, I have once again started the pilgrimage with Christian to Mount Zion. We are set out from the City of Destruction, and are steadily march toward that Celestial City. So far we have slipped into the Slough of Despond and have been mislead by Mr. Worldly Wiseman. However, through Evangelist's kind aid we have found the Wicket Gate, met Goodwill, and have entered the Interpreter's house.

I love John Bunyan's work Pilgrim's Progress. The rich imagery in his powerful allegory of the Christian faith has been an inspiration since it was first penned. It has captivated the hearts of believers and unbelievers alike. It has shaken the souls of many from their slumber, and placed their feet once again on the right path. Bunyan not only describes the dangers and pitfalls that believers face on the Way, but he also describes the hopes that drive them and the helps that enable them to make the journey.

I highly recommend that you read Pilgrim's Progress. There are several versions in modern English available. I would recommend starting with one of them. James H. Thomas' s Pilgrim's Progress in Today's English is very easy to read. The Pilgrim's Progress in Modern English by L. Edward Hazelbaker is well written and has notes at the end of each chapter. After you have read one of the newer versions, I would go back and read the actually work of Bunyan.

The story is often divided up into two "parts." Part one is the original story of Christian's journey to Mt. Zion. Part two was written later and tells of Christian's wife's journey. It functions as a sequel and can be read or ignored. Well, we are off on pilgrimage, I hope to see you soon in the Celestial City.