Ok, so I just got thru reading the assigned pages (15-30). So I'd like to put out some thoughts that I had during reading and maybe you had the same.

Probly the first thing that one can observe from Bunyon is the misuse of Scripture. A verse out context here and there can lead to one questioning and totally misunderstanding the doctrines of Scripture that are meant to give assurance.

The form that seemed to be prevelant in Bunyon seemed to be an exagerrated form of typology.(paragraph 71). Typology can be interesting when used appropriately, however, they way Bunyon makes use of Moses' counting some animals clean and unclean as referring to different types of men...

But appearantly Bunyon wasn't the only one. The sermon of the pastor from Song of Solomon (para 89,90) completely mishandles the intent of the text. Everything that could not be explained in Scripture, had to refer to the church or Christ somehow, just make it fit.

Along the same lines the second danger that he falls into is taking verses, or parts of verses, out of context. (i.e. Luke 22.31, "Simon, Simon, ..." Para. 93f). This just fed his insecurities and confusion that other verses, in context, would remove doubts.

In fact, his feelings seemed to be a stronger guide and force for him than Scripture at this time in his life. Bunyon seems to be searching for a feeling of salvation, something that cannot be sure, when he should have relied upon the priori of Scripture to first see the glory of God's salvation.

So here are some questions for discussion:
1. How much of our salvation "experience" is based on emotion?

2. Should churches do more to help their membership understand HOW to interpret Scripture correctly?

3. What are some passages of Scripture that gave you peace when doubting your salvation?

Till next time, (I gotta work on my autobiography for Paul-he may beat me!lol)

Soli Deo Gloria,
Aaron