How many here hold to The doctrine of the perseverance of the saints

[Martin Marprelate]

There were others who traveled with Christian who arrived at the Celestial City when they departed from Christian’s journey as martyrs. But because it is Christian’s journey, the continuity of the story is written for his perspective. I don’t know if I remember some explanation or if I am remembering it into the story, but nobody enters exactly the same way (comes through life the same way). Bunyan doesn’t make everyone cross death at the same point.
It is one of those points in an allegory that must be understood. Analogy is never perfect.

In other words, once beyond the Cross, it is a guarantee that any traveler who has come by the way of the Cross will get to the Celestial City. But the characters in Vanity Fair are not on their way to the celestial city. The cross would be a different location in each of their lives as would be their crossing over.

My take. I never ran it past Bunyan.

Acts 14:22. 'We must, through many tribulations, enter the kingdom of God.' Pilgrim's path led him through Bypath Meadow into Doubting Castle and giant Despair. He also had to pass the blandishments of Vanity Fair. The Christian, by God's grace, will persevere, but it is also necessary that he does.

I also read "The Holy War" by Bunyan (again years ago). It is equally as well done. It was a great read, no less quality as "Pilgrim's Progress."
Anyone else read it? (don't want to hijack the thread though).

Yes, I read it some years back; excellent book as are all Bunyan's works.
Grace abounding to the Chief of Sinners is his autobiography. Other great titles are The Intercession of Christ and Come and welcome to the Lord Jesus Christ. Was that last book really written by a Calvinist? Yes it was!
There are also, The Life and Death of Mr Badman, The Heavenly Footman and The Acceptable sacrifice. All excellent books and available at low prices in paperback.