Student Question
In "The Pilgrim's Progress," why did Goodwill pull Christian in through the gate?
Quick answer:
Goodwill pulled Christian through the gate to protect him from potential attacks by Beelzebub. This action symbolizes the dual responsibility in Christianity: the believer's choice to seek salvation and the duty of others to assist and protect new believers. It underscores the communal responsibility to "save" and support each other's spiritual journey.
Goodwill pulled Christian through the gate because of the possibility of attacks from Beelzebub.
The symbolism here is that, while the Christian is responsible for making the choice and entering the gate through our own free will, it is also the responsibility of others to aid them on the way. If other Christians see a new believer in danger of attack, they are to step forward and take the initiative to pull them through to safety. They are to "save" the soul's of others.
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