By-Ends Poses a Question

As By-ends and his companions walked down the path, Mr. By-ends posed a question to them. “Brothers,” By-Ends began, “let me ask you a question. Suppose a man—a tradesman, let’s say, or even a minister—has an opportunity to gain the good things of this life, but the only way to obtain them is by showing a sudden and outward zeal for certain religious practices he has never engaged with before. Can he do this and still be considered an honest man?"

"I understand where you're going with this,” said Mr. Money-love, “and if my fellow gentlemen will permit me, I’ll give my response. Let’s start with the minister: Suppose there’s a worthy minister who currently holds a small position but has his eye on a much larger, more prosperous one. He now has a chance to secure this better position by becoming more studious, preaching more frequently and with greater zeal, and even changing a few of his principles to suit the preferences of his congregation. Personally, I don’t see any reason why he can’t do this, as long as he has a legitimate opportunity. In fact, I believe he can do all of this and still be an honest man. Here’s why:

“One, his desire for a larger congregation is good—it’s been placed before him by Providence, so why shouldn’t he pursue it without feeling guilty?

“Two, in his pursuit of this position, he becomes more dedicated, more zealous, and thus a better preacher, which clearly aligns with God’s will.

“ Three, as for adapting his principles to meet the needs of his people, this shows that he is selfless, has a sweet and caring temperament, and is therefore even more suited to the ministry.

“So, a minister who exchanges a small congregation for a larger one shouldn’t be seen as greedy. Rather, he should be praised for honing his skills and advancing his calling, making the most of the opportunities placed before him.

“Now, onto the tradesman: Suppose he has a modest business, but by becoming outwardly religious, he could improve his standing—perhaps attract a rich wife or more customers. I see no issue with this either. After all, becoming religious is always a virtue, no matter the reason behind it. And there’s nothing wrong with gaining a rich wife or more business. Besides, by becoming religious, he’s gaining something good from good people while becoming good himself. So, he’s getting a good wife, good customers, and good profits—all by becoming religious, which is a good thing. Therefore, it’s a perfectly acceptable and profitable course of action."

Mr. Money-Love's response was met with eager approval from the group, who agreed it was both sensible and advantageous. Convinced no one could dispute it, they decided to present the same question to Christian and Hopeful once they caught up. They called out, and the pilgrims paused, waiting for them. As they walked, they agreed that Mr. Hold-the-world should ask the question, to avoid reigniting the earlier tension between Mr. By-ends and the pilgrims.

So, the two groups met, and after a brief greeting, Mr. Hold-the-world posed his question to Christian and Hopeful, challenging them to answer if they could.

"Even someone brand new to the faith could answer a question like this!” cried Christian. “If it is wrong to follow Christ even for a loaf of bread, as we see in the book of John, how much worse is it to use Him and religion as a mere tool to pursue worldly wealth? (John 6v26) Only heathens, hypocrites, devils, and witches hold such a view. Let me explain each one by one.

“First, when the heathens Hamor and Shechem desired Jacob's daughter and possessions, they saw no way to obtain them except by becoming circumcised. They said to their people, 'If every male among us is circumcised, won’t their wealth, their cattle, and their daughter become ours?' They used religion as a ploy to get what they wanted. (Gen 34v20-24)

“Second, the hypocritical Pharisees were of the same mind. They made long prayers as a pretense, meanwhile they took over widows' houses. God's judgment for them was greater damnation. (Luke 20v46-47)

“Third, Judas the devil followed this way of thinking as well. He feigned religious devotion for the sake of the money bag, but in the end, he was lost, the very son of damnation. (John 12v6)

“Fourth, Simon the sorcerer also sought to use religion for personal gain. He wanted the Holy Spirit so he could profit from it, but Peter condemned him for his wickedness. (Acts 8v19-22)

“So,” Christian concluded, “I am convinced that anyone who adopts religion for worldly gain will just as easily abandon it for the same reason. Judas, who gave up the world to appear religious, ultimately sold both his religion and his Master for worldly riches. To affirm such a question, as you seem to have done, is heathenish, hypocritical, and devilish. Your reward will be in line with your deeds."

The group stood silent, staring at one another, with no response to Christian's words. Hopeful agreed with Christian's sound argument, and there was a heavy silence. Mr. By-ends and his companions fell back, allowing Christian and Hopeful to move ahead. Christian then said to his friend, "If these men can’t withstand the judgment of people, what will they do when faced with the judgment of God? If they are speechless before mere humans, how will they endure when rebuked by the flames of a devouring fire?"