Welcome back to our weekly reading of Pilgrim’s Progress!! Today we’re going to take a look to see what happens after Christian’s encounter with Legality Hill.
“Continue on the way,” Evangelist had told Christian. “Keep going until you reach the gate, where there are words written on it: ‘Knock, and the door will be opened’.”
Christian did as he said. When he made it to the gate and saw the words, he knocked. Several times.
The door opened, and a man named Good Will stood before him. He asked who Christian was and what he was doing, to which Good Will responded, “come in,” and basically yanked him inside.
Once inside the gate, Good Will explained about the devil’s castle nearby and how sometimes when he shot arrows those who came to the gate die before getting inside. Christian thanked him.
After explaining about Evangelist, Obstinate, Pliable, Mr. Worldly Wisdom, and Legality, Christian excitedly told Good Will how amazing it was he could be admitted through the gate after all the times he messed up.
“We make no objections to any, notwithstanding all that they have done before they came hither.”
-Good Will
He pointed out the way Christian should go. He instructed Christian to never leave the narrow path, though there were many twists and turns leading away from it.
“What about this burden?” Christian asked hopefully.
All Good Will told him was to be content with it until the place of deliverance. Then he sent him on his way, towards what he called the house of the Interpreter.
Good Will
Calm, trustworthy Good Will is one of the kinder people Christian has met on his journey. He offers good advice and helpful direction.
This might not be the normal opinion, but Good Will reminds me of someone who is familiar with new believers. (click for more details about this idea)
Like an older, experienced christian, who remembers the hardships at the beginning (and throughout) their faith. Someone who wants to help, at least a little, with those hardships and give some good advice. Good Will brings to mind a knowledgeable friend that a new christian might make and, though not grow close with, always appreciate.
I think he also represents the good will of God.
God wants the best for us, and he will help in any way he can. Even though sometimes he will let us mess it up and fall, it’s so that we can learn from those mistakes, and learn how much we need him.
But he is always at the door, ready to show us which way to go:)
I hope you enjoyed this post, and that you’ll stay tuned for the next one!!
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