Books The Heavenly Footman - John Bunyan

The Heavenly Footman; Or, A Description of the Man That Gets to Heaven by John Bunyan is a classic Puritan spiritual manual written in the late 17th century. The book uses the metaphor of a race to describe the Christian journey toward salvation and eternal life, emphasizing that merely desiring heaven is not enough—one must actively and earnestly "run" the race of faith with perseverance and dedication.

Bunyan addresses common obstacles such as slothfulness, carelessness, and worldly distractions that can hinder progress on the spiritual path. The work provides practical advice, warnings, and encouragement to believers to cast off spiritual laziness and press forward with vigilance, repentance, and reliance on Christ. It highlights the importance of entering through the "wicket gate" (Christ as the only way to heaven) and warns against false paths and complacency.

Structured around biblical inspiration, especially 1 Corinthians 9:24 ("So run that ye may obtain"), the book offers nine directions on how to run the race, nine motives to urge believers onward, and nine uses of the subject to inspire and provoke earnestness in the Christian life.

John Bunyan’s terse and vivid style makes this a compelling and practical guide for anyone seeking to understand what it means to live a faithful Christian life aimed at eternal reward. It is regarded as one of the classic texts of Puritan literature, complementing Bunyan’s more famous work, The Pilgrim’s Progress.

In summary, The Heavenly Footman is a call to spiritual diligence, urging Christians to run the race of faith with all their heart and strength so that they may ultimately reach heaven

1 BOOK