The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan

"And finally, the feelings of guilt, and meditation on terrifying things —
are grievous to them. They do not like to see their misery before they
come into it; though perhaps, if they truly believed the sight of their
coming misery — it might make them flee where the righteous flee and
are safe. But, as I hinted before, because they shun even the thoughts of
guilt and terror — when once they are rid of their awakenings about the
terrors and wrath of God, they gladly harden their hearts, and choose
such ways as will harden them more and more.”
CHRISTIAN: "You are pretty near the root of the issue — which is their
lack of a true change of mind and will. They are therefore like the felon
who quakes and trembles before the judge, and seems to repent most
heartily; but the reason is his fear of the noose — not that he has any
true remorse for his crime. This is evident, because, if you but let this
man have his liberty — he will continue to be a thief and a rogue.
Whereas, if his mind and heart were really changed, he would be far
otherwise."
HOPEFUL: "I have shown you my reasons for their going back to their
sinful course. Now, please show me the path of their backsliding."
CHRISTIAN: "So I will, gladly.
1. They purposely draw off their thoughts from any remembrance of
God, death, and the judgment to come.
2. Then by degrees, they cast off private religious duties — such as
closet prayer, curbing their lusts, watching, sorrow for sin, and the like.
3. Then they shun the company of enthusiastic and fervent Christians.
4. After that, they grow cold in public religious duties — such as hearing
the Word preached, reading the Word, godly fellowship, and the like.
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