Watching Pilgrim’s Progress was a revelation, a story that didn’t just tell of faith but also illustrated the journey in a way that felt close to home. The naming of characters and places alone – like the “City of Destruction,” where Christian begins his journey reflects our world’s brokenness, inviting us to think about where we’re coming from and the path God calls us to take. Watching Christian with a burden on his back, I couldn’t help but see myself in him. Although I had found faith, there were burdens I still hadn’t fully let go. From the beginning, Pilgrim’s Progress offers a map every believer can learn.
Yes, I have written about lessons in Pilgrim’s Progress film before but trust you can never exhaust its lessons. It’s like the manual for a Christian life and a sneak peek of the battles to come. Here are the six more key lessons from Christian’s Journey that stood out to me.
Lesson 1: The Power of God’s Word in Revealing Burdens
Christian’s journey starts with discovering his burden, which only becomes clear after he begins to read the Word of God. This shows that the Bible is the mirror that reveals our burdens, struggles, and sins we may not even realize we’re carrying. It’s easy to think all is well in a world that normalizes everything. However, as Christian’s story shows us, the Word of God helps us discern what truly weighs us down. As Jesus said in John 8:32, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” By studying God’s Word, we start to see what He wants to free us from.
Lesson 2: Stand Firm Against Peer Pressure
Once Christian discovers his burden, he wants to share what he’s learned with his family and friends, but they only discourage him. They can’t see their burdens, as the “god of this world” has blinded them (2 Corinthians 4:4). This reflects the reality that when God reveals truth to us, not everyone will understand or support our journey. The lesson here is not to let others’ lack of understanding deter you from God’s call. Christian’s friends wanted him to stay as he was, comfortable and “normal.” But he knew he couldn’t remain where he was; he had to follow the calling in his heart.
Lesson 3: Avoiding the Trap of Worldly Wisdom
Early in his journey, Christian encounters Mr. Worldly Wiseman, who tempts him with the idea of achieving freedom through human effort and following rules. But as Christian learns, worldly wisdom often leads us off course, making us rely on self-reliance rather than God’s grace. Mr. Worldly Wiseman tries to mislead Christian by pointing him toward a path of works, but thankfully, Evangelist corrects him and points him back to the narrow road. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Christian’s encounter with Mr. Worldly Wiseman reminds us that true freedom is found not in human wisdom but in Christ alone.
Lesson 4: Commitment Over Convenience – The Tale of Obstinate and Pliable
As Christian begins his journey, he’s joined briefly by two characters, Obstinate and Pliable. Obstinate refuses to leave the City of Destruction, while Pliable eagerly joins Christian, only to abandon him as soon as the journey becomes difficult. Through these two, we see that genuine faith requires commitment, not convenience. Obstinate embodies a stubborn resistance to change, while Pliable’s faith is superficial, turning back at the first sign of hardship. This lesson is a powerful reminder that faith must be rooted in conviction; otherwise, it will crumble when tested. James 1:2-4 tells us to “consider it pure joy” when facing trials, as these tests strengthen true faith.
Lesson 5: The Value of Perseverance Amid Fear and Doubt – The Warning of Timorous and Mistrust
Further along the path, Christian meets Timorous and Mistrust, who caution him about the dangers ahead. Their warning causes him to hesitate momentarily, but he ultimately decides to press on. Timorous and Mistrust represent fear and doubt that can disrupt our spiritual journey. Yet Christian realizes that God’s strength is greater than his fear. In our walk with Christ, we too will encounter moments of fear and doubt. As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” Just as Christians face these moments with courage, we too can find strength in knowing God walks with us.
Lesson 6: Freedom Comes Through the Cross – Leaving the Burden Behind
Christian’s burden represents his guilt and sin, which he finally releases at the foot of the Cross. This moment is a powerful reminder that our burdens can only be truly lifted through Christ. Despite all his efforts, Christian couldn’t free himself of the weight he carried—only surrendering at the Cross allowed him to be released from his burden. This scene is a powerful image of the freedom Jesus offers, and it resonates with Matthew 11:28, where Jesus says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” The Cross represents the ultimate freedom that can only come from surrendering to Christ.
Conclusion: Persevering on the Path to Heaven
As Christian journeys to the Celestial City, we witness the trials, friends, and enemies that shape his faith. His path reminds us that the Christian journey is not easy, but it’s worth every step. In a world full of distractions, burdens, and temptations, these lessons from Pilgrim’s Progress encourage us to stay the course, trust God’s guidance, and seek freedom through the Cross. As we reflect on Christian’s journey, let us be inspired to live each day persevering in our faith and striving for the Celestial City, with our eyes fixed on Christ.
