Chapter 4 – The Bell and the Hammer

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 25: 28

         “Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control.”

Biblical Parallels and Principles:

·      Notice how quickly Digory’s healthy curiosity becomes unhealthy when he allows it to control him. He becomes thoughtless, cruel, and selfish – just like Uncle Andrew! “A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless” (Proverbs 14:16). First Peter urges believers to be “clear minded and self-controlled.” And 2 Chronicles 19: 6 says, “Consider carefully what you do.”

·      Digory says he can’t help himself – he blames the magic. But James 1: 13-15 makes it clear that we cannot blame anyone or anything for our mistakes. We are responsible for our own choices: “Each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when is full-grown, gives birth to death.”

Think about it!

Neither Polly nor Digory wants to be accused of being afraid – of anything. Each is determined to put on a brace face and plunge ahead, even when his or her better judgement tells him or her that caution is called for.

How does the Bible say wise people respond to danger?

Hint: Read Proverbs 22: 3

Scriptures on Avoiding and Resisting Temptation

Proverbs 4: 13-15

Romans 6: 12-13

1 Corinthians 10: 13