Good morning,
This week we will enjoy chapters 9-12 of Pilgrim’s Progress.
Chapter 12. The Palace Beautiful (SermonAudio.com, 26 minute video)
Chapter 12. The Palace Beautiful (YouTube, 26 minute video)
Christian continues his journey after refusing to turn back with Timorous and Mistrust.
As evening approaches, he arrives at a place called the Palace Beautiful. The palace stands beside the King’s highway and serves as a place of rest and encouragement for pilgrims. At first, Christian hesitates because he is uncertain whether he will be welcomed there. As he approaches, he sees two lions positioned near the path. The sight of the lions causes him to stop and consider whether he should proceed.
A porter named Watchful calls out to him and explains that the lions are chained. Christian learns that the danger is more apparent than real, if he remains on the proper path. Encouraged by this instruction, he carefully passes between the lions and reaches the palace safely. At the entrance, he is welcomed by godly women named Discretion, Prudence, Piety, and Charity. They question Christian concerning his journey, his conversion, and his destination. Christian recounts his experiences from the City of Destruction, to the Cross and beyond. The women rejoice in God’s grace toward him and gladly receive him as a fellow pilgrim.
Christian spends time enjoying fellowship, instruction, and spiritual encouragement within the palace. He is shown many valuable truths concerning the King and His kingdom. The residents strengthen his understanding of the pilgrimage and prepare him for future trials.
Christian is also taken to the armory, where he is shown the weapons available for spiritual warfare. There he is equipped with armor that will help him face the dangers ahead.
Before departing, Christian is shown a distant view of the Celestial City from the palace roof. Refreshed, instructed, encouraged, and equipped, Christian leaves the Palace Beautiful ready to continue his journey with renewed confidence. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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