Encounters with various characters mark Christian’s journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, each representing obstacles, temptations, or encouragements. As we continue to look at the lessons we learn from Pilgrim’s Progress: Journey to Heaven, today we want to focus on lessons from Obstinate. Obstinate is a stubborn, mocking man who ridicules Christian for leaving the City of Destruction and attempts to dissuade him from continuing his journey.
While Obstinate’s role is brief, his character’s lessons are timeless and deeply relevant to our Christian walks. Let’s explore the significance of Obstinate, the lessons we can learn from him, and how to respond to such opposition in our spiritual lives.
Understanding Obstinate’s Role
Obstinate represents those entrenched in worldly ways, resistant to change and dismissive of spiritual truths. His name, Obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action, even in the face of reason or truth.
When Christian embarks on his journey, Obstinate mocks him for abandoning the City of Destruction and calls him foolish for seeking the Celestial City. Obstinate’s goal is clear: to pull Christian back into the comfort and conformity of their sinful city. But when his efforts fail, he quickly abandons Christian and returns to his old ways, unwilling to see beyond his limited perspective.
This encounter reflects the challenges we Christians often face when we decide to pursue a deeper relationship with God. Whether through mockery, doubt, or outright resistance, there will always be “Obstinates” who try to discourage us from staying on the narrow path.
Lessons from Obstinate
- Not Everyone Will Understand Your Faith Journey
When Christian shares his desire to escape the City of Destruction and seek eternal life, Obstinate doesn’t respond with curiosity or support but with scorn. This teaches us that not everyone will understand or approve of our spiritual choices. Some will mock you, alienate you, and in some countries, we are persecuted for our beliefs.
- Lesson: Your faith journey is personal, and it’s okay if others don’t fully grasp it. Stay rooted in your convictions, even when faced with skepticism.
- Stubbornness Can Blind People to the Truth
Obstinate is so set in his ways that he refuses to listen to Christian’s reasons for leaving. His stubbornness blinds him to the impending destruction of their city and the hope that Christian has found.
- Lesson: A closed mind and heart can prevent people from experiencing God’s truth. Pray for those who oppose you, that their hearts might be softened.
- Opposition Is Part of the Journey
Obstinate’s resistance is a reminder that opposition is inevitable for anyone seeking to live a life of faith. Jesus Himself warned that following Him would not be easy and that we would face resistance from the world (John 15:18-19).
- Lesson: Expect opposition as part of your spiritual growth. Use it as an opportunity to strengthen your faith rather than a reason to retreat.
- Worldly Comforts Are Hard to Leave Behind
Obstinate sees no reason to leave the City of Destruction because he is content with the life he knows, even though it leads to ruin. This reflects how many people resist change, clinging to comfort and familiarity despite the consequences.
- Lesson: Recognize that true transformation often requires leaving behind the familiar and stepping into the unknown.
How to Deal with “Obstinates” in Your Life
- Stay Focused on Your Goal
Christian doesn’t allow Obstinate’s ridicule to derail him. Instead, he presses on, focused on the promise of the Celestial City. Similarly, when faced with opposition, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and the eternal prize (Philippians 3:14).
- Practical Tip: Surround yourself with reminders of God’s promises, such as Scripture, worship music, or encouraging friends, to help you stay on track.
- Respond with Grace, Not Anger
When Obstinate mocks Christian, he doesn’t retaliate or argue aggressively. Instead, he shares his reasons calmly and continues on his way. This is a powerful example of how to handle opposition with grace.
- Practical Tip: When someone challenges your faith, respond with patience and kindness. Let your actions reflect Christ’s love, even if the other person doesn’t reciprocate.
- Pray for Those Who Oppose You
Obstinate’s resistance is rooted in ignorance and fear, as is often the case with those who oppose our faith. Instead of becoming frustrated, pray for their hearts to be opened.
- Practical Tip: Make a habit of praying for people who challenge or oppose you. Trust that God can work in their lives in ways you cannot.
- Know When to Walk Away
Just as Christian eventually leaves Obstinate behind, there are times when it’s necessary to distance yourself from people or situations that hinder your spiritual growth. This doesn’t mean giving up on them entirely but recognizing that you cannot force someone to change.
- Practical Tip: Set healthy boundaries with individuals who are consistently harmful to your faith journey. Continue to pray for them, but don’t let their resistance hold you back.
Encouragement for the Journey
Encountering “Obstinates” is a natural part of following Christ. Whether it’s friends, family, or even society at large, there will always be voices trying to pull you away from your faith. But like Christian, you have a choice: to press on toward the Celestial City or to give in to the comfort and conformity of the City of Destruction.
Remember, the road to eternal life is narrow, and not everyone will choose to walk it. But as you face opposition, take heart in knowing that you are not alone. God is with you every step of the way, providing strength, guidance, and encouragement.
The story of Obstinate reminds us that while opposition is inevitable, it doesn’t have to define us. Stay steadfast, respond with grace, and trust that God will use every challenge for your growth and His glory.
Closing Thought
Who are the “Obstinates” in your life? Perhaps it’s a friend who dismisses your faith, a coworker who ridicules your values, or even your doubts and fears. Whatever form they take, remember that your journey is worth it. Stay focused, keep trusting God, and let your faith shine as a testament to His love and truth.
