Our series on addiction recovery may be concluding, but a new journey begins. The Hero’s Journey isn’t just for caped superheroes—it’s a call for each of us. Life offers challenges, growth, and purpose, and the timeless Pilgrim’s Progress captures this beautifully. In our upcoming series, we’ll delve into how this classic tale guides our spiritual paths, showing how every step, obstacle, and ally plays a part in a faith-filled journey. Ready to take the first step?
1. The Ordinary World
Our journey begins in the “ordinary world.” We are born and raised in an environment where daily routines and societal norms shape our lives. It’s natural to want to fit in. However, as Christians, we’re called to be different and set apart. Romans 12:2 (NIV) reminds us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This call to live differently is our first glimpse of the journey ahead.
In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian, the protagonist, lives in the City of Destruction. Like us, he starts in a world of normalcy and familiarity, yet he feels a growing discontent. This inner stirring is a powerful reminder that we are made for more.
2. The Call to Adventure
For Christians, the call to adventure begins with salvation. This call challenges us to step beyond our comfort zones and enter a new world—the spiritual realm. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) beautifully captures this, stating, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” Accepting salvation means we’ve answered God’s call to embark on a purposeful adventure.
Just as Christian from Pilgrim’s Progress feels the burden of his sins, we, too, sense a divine pull toward a higher purpose. Salvation marks the beginning of a transformative journey.
3. Refusal of the Call
It’s common to resist the call to adventure. We doubt our worth, fear failure, or simply prefer the familiar. I can relate—I’ve run from God’s call before. Even after accepting salvation, I avoided deeper commitments, hid from my pastor’s invitations, and battled the fear of inadequacy. What is it that God is telling you to do or who is God saying you will become but you do not believe Him? One of the most coming things I have heard from my friends and acquaintances is “I will not be a pastor”. Nobody wants to answer that call. The feeling that “I’m not ready” can be overwhelming.
In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian’s friends and family warn him against leaving, sowing seeds of doubt. From the day he discovers his burden, it takes him a while to get started on his journey. We, too, face internal and external pressures that challenge our faith. Yet, growth begins when we push past the resistance and take that first step.
4. Meeting the Mentor
On our journey, God places mentors and guides to help us. For Christians, the Holy Spirit serves as our ultimate mentor, guiding and teaching us. We might also encounter earthly mentors: pastors, friends, or wise family members who offer counsel and encouragement. These people will guide us and offer wisdom along the way. They might not be with us for the whole journey for they will leave when we are ready for the journey ahead.
Tao Te Ching — ‘When the student is ready the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready… The teacher will Disappear.’
In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian meets Evangelist, a mentor who points him toward the Wicket Gate – the gateway to his journey. Like Evangelist, our mentors show us a path forward, helping us stay on course when doubts arise.
5. Crossing the Threshold
Crossing the threshold requires courage. It’s the point of commitment where we step fully into the unknown. For me, this means writing these posts, even with lingering doubts and fears. While I’m still learning to surrender fully to God, I’m reminded that every small step counts. God is calling us deeper, to the oceans where feet may fail. To continue our journey, we must learn to surrender and walk by faith. There are things and dimensions in God we can not experience until we cross a certain threshold. It will not be easy, the devil will fight you. There will be situations and people that want you to remain where you are. For me,z distraction has been my biggest enemy.
Christian crosses the threshold when he leaves the City of Destruction, fully committing to his journey toward the Celestial City. As he runs from the City of Destruction, he shields his ears from the cries and calls of his family and friends. If we are to cross this threshold, we have to shut our ears to the opinions of others. This leap of faith mirrors our own as we embrace our Christian walk with purpose and resolve.
6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies
On the hero’s path, trials and adversaries are inevitable. We’d all love a smooth journey, but the reality includes both allies and enemies. Our first enemy is Satan, who constantly seeks to derail us. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) warns us to “be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian faces obstacles and enemies like Apollyon, who tries to discourage him. He also meets allies like Faithful and Hopeful, who offer companionship. In our own lives, we encounter spiritual tests, toxic relationships, and moments of self-doubt. The presence of these challenges—and the allies who help us overcome them—builds resilience and strengthens our faith.
