Last week, Christiana, her children, and Mercy received what every pilgrim soon learns to prize: a faithful guide. They had reached the Interpreter’s House. They had been welcomed, instructed, refreshed, and clothed. Then, as they prepared to continue, the Interpreter called for one of his servants: “Then said the Interpreter to one of his servants, Take sword, and helmet, and shield; and take these my daughters, and conduct them to the house called Beautiful.”

Last week, we met Christian — a man awakened. A book in his hand.A burden on his back.A cry in his heart: “What must I do to be saved?” He fled the City of Destruction, leaving all behind. But he did not leave alone. Two men come after him. Obstinate — stubborn, rooted, unwilling to be moved. He hears Christian’s warning, but he will not yield. He turns back quickly, preferring the old life to the uncertain road. Pliable — eager, impressionable, easily stirred. He likes to g